### 3. notes that churches and fbos are frequently the only providers of healthcare and other social services in remote areas of sub-saharan africa and in conflict-prone settings such as northern mozambique and other crisis zones; ### 3. notes that institutions and places of worship and fbos are frequently the only providers of healthcare , and other social services in remote areas , in conflict-prone settings and in crisis zones;


### 4. is deeply concerned about the rise over the last decade of violence against people belonging to minorities on the grounds of their belief or religion as a global phenomenon , which is intensifying and affecting more and more countries; notes that it affects many religious communities , namely christians (including copts) , jews , muslims (including ahmadis and alevis) , buddhists , hindus and smaller religious groups , such as baha’is , sikhs and zoroastrians , as well as groups of people who are atheists , humanists , agnostics or do not identify with any religion; ### 4. is deeply concerned about the violence against people belonging to minorities on the grounds of their belief or religion as a global phenomenon; notes that it affects many religious communities , as well as groups of people who are atheists , humanists , agnostics or do not identify with any religion;


### 4. is deeply concerned about the rise over the last decade of violence against people belonging to minorities on the grounds of their belief or religion as a global phenomenon , which is intensifying and affecting more and more countries; notes that it affects many religious communities , namely christians (including copts) , jews , muslims (including ahmadis and alevis) , buddhists , hindus and smaller religious groups , such as baha’is , sikhs and zoroastrians , as well as groups of people who are atheists , humanists , agnostics or do not identify with any religion; ### 4. is deeply concerned about the rise over the last decade of coercion , violence and repression against people belonging to minorities on the grounds of their belief or religion as a global phenomenon , which is intensifying and affecting more and more countries; notes that it affects many religious communities , as well as groups of people who are atheists , humanists , agnostics or do not identify with any religion;


### 4. is deeply concerned about the rise over the last decade of violence against people belonging to minorities on the grounds of their belief or religion as a global phenomenon , which is intensifying and affecting more and more countries; notes that it affects many religious communities , namely christians (including copts) , jews , muslims (including ahmadis and alevis) , buddhists , hindus and smaller religious groups , such as baha’is , sikhs and zoroastrians , as well as groups of people who are atheists , humanists , agnostics or do not identify with any religion; ### 4. is deeply concerned about the rise over the last decade of violence , discrimination and harassment against people belonging to minorities on the grounds of their belief or religion as a global phenomenon , which is intensifying and affecting more and more countries; notes that it affects many religious communities , namely christians (including copts) , jews , muslims (including ahmadis and alevis) , buddhists , hindus and smaller religious groups , such as baha’is , sikhs and zoroastrians , as well as groups of people who are atheists , humanists , agnostics or do not identify with any religion;


### 4. welcomes the activities of churches and religious leaders in the field of conflict management and mediation , and in fostering reconciliation , dialogue and peace; highlights that inter-religious dialogue is crucial , notably in conflict areas , to foster peace and reconciliation; ### 4. welcomes the activities of institutions and places of worship and religious leaders in the field of conflict management and mediation , and in fostering reconciliation , dialogue and peace; highlights that inter-religious dialogue is crucial , notably in conflict areas , to foster peace , reconciliation and an inclusive society on all levels;


### 5. stresses that among believers’ groups , christians are estimated to constitute the majority of people facing persecution for their faith; underlines that globally around 340 million christians experience high levels of persecution and discrimination , with over 4 500 christians killed for their faith , 4 500 churches and other christian buildings attacked , and over 4 200 believers detained without trial , arrested , sentenced or imprisoned in 2020 alone; is alarmed about the increase in the overall level of discrimination , and especially about the sharp increase in the number of killings compared to 2019; ### deleted


### 5. calls on the commission and the council to make the fight against the persecution of religious minorities a priority in the programming of activities related to eu development assistance , in line with the areas of cooperation for geographic and thematic programmes of ndici-global europe; ### 5. calls on the commission and the council to continue the fight against the persecution of religious minorities and to prioritize , promote and protect freedom of belief , assembly , expression and speech in the programming of activities related to eu development assistance , in line with the areas of cooperation for geographic and thematic programmes of ndici-global europe;


### 6. is concerned about the persecution and serious human rights violations against muslim minorities; ### deleted


### 6. calls on the eu to develop the necessary reaction and sanction mechanisms to combat effectively violations of freedom of religion or belief , including discrimination or legal restrictions based on religion or belief in its partner countries , as well as any kind of impediment to freedom of religion or belief , freedom of association and freedom of expression. ### 6. calls on the eu to develop an adequate accountability , reaction and sanction mechanisms to combat effectively violations of freedom of religion or belief , including discrimination or legal restrictions based on religion or belief in its partner countries , as well as any kind of impediment to freedom of religion or belief , freedom of association and freedom of expression.


### 7. is worried about growing antisemitism worldwide , given that although jews make up only 0.2 % of the global population , they faced harassment in 88 countries in 2018; ### deleted


### 7. is worried about growing antisemitism worldwide , given that although jews make up only 0.2 % of the global population , they faced harassment in 88 countries in 2018; ### 7. is worried about growing antisemitism worldwide , given that although jews make up only 0.2 % of the global population , they faced harassment in 88 countries in 2018; is very concerned of the increasing number of hate incidents involving the representatives of the jewish community , attacks on synagogues and jewish cemeteries in europe;


### 8. emphasises that the perpetrators of acts of persecution include authoritarian regimes , governments inclined to impose the supremacy of dominant ethnic or religious populations over minorities , terrorist organisations , political and religious extremist parties or groups , and also , sometimes , family members , friends and neighbours of victims , for instance when the latter change or abandon their religious allegiance; ### 8. emphasises that the perpetrators of acts of persecution include authoritarian regimes , governments inclined to impose the supremacy of certain ethnic or religious populations over minorities , terrorist organisations , political and religious extremist parties or groups , and also , sometimes , family members , friends and neighbours of victims , for instance when the latter change or abandon their religious allegiance or practise their religion differently than the traditional norms and doctrine;


### the middle east and north africa ### deleted


### 9. notes with particular concern that persecution of christians is widespread in the middle east , at times amounting to genocide , and has prompted an exodus of christians from the region over the past two decades , resulting in approximately 15 million christians making up 4 % of the population in the middle east and north africa , down from 20 % a century ago; ### deleted


### 10. strongly deplores that millions of christians have been uprooted from their homes , and that many have been killed , kidnapped , imprisoned , discriminated against and have had restrictions placed on their freedom of worship; notes that forms of persecution also exist in all aspects of social life , including in employment and education; ### deleted


### 11. recalls the crimes against humanity and war crimes were committed in iraq and syria by the so-called ‘isis/daesh’ against christians , yazidis , muslims and other religious and ethnic minorities in the territories under its control during the period 2014-2020; ### deleted


### 12. underlines that the persecution of minority muslim denominations or sects is widespread in the countries in the middle east and north africa in which islam is the predominant or official religion; ### deleted


### 13. notes with particular concern that the middle east and north africa present the highest regional levels of anti-semitic attitudes , and that holocaust denial is prevalent among certain segments in society and even at state level , such as in iran; ### deleted


### 14. is concerned about the persecution of baha’is in the middle east; strongly condemns the restrictions imposed on the baha’i community by the houthis in yemen , the expulsion of community members from qatar and the continued systematic arrests , imprisonment , torture and harassment of community members in iran; ### deleted


### 15. deplores the fact that atheists are still persecuted in almost all of the region and that apostasy carries the death sentence in several countries; expresses its regret that freedom of worship is severely limited in some of the countries in the middle east , with the notable example of saudi arabia , where public practice of any religion other than islam is strictly prohibited; ### 15. deplores the fact that atheists , humanists and non-religious persons face persecution around the world , notably in the name of religion; underlines that the discrimination against these individuals may take multiple forms , including constitutional and legal barriers and restrictive and conservative societal norms and perceptions; denounces that apostasy carries the death sentence in several countries;


### 15. deplores the fact that atheists are still persecuted in almost all of the region and that apostasy carries the death sentence in several countries; expresses its regret that freedom of worship is severely limited in some of the countries in the middle east , with the notable example of saudi arabia , where public practice of any religion other than islam is strictly prohibited; ### 15. deplores the fact that atheists are still persecuted in almost all of the region and that apostasy carries the death sentence in several countries;


### asia ### deleted


### 16. notes that persecution of religious minorities in asia is commonplace in many countries , especially in those with communist regimes , and that blasphemy laws are of particular concern , particularly in pakistan; ### deleted


### 17. deplores the crimes against muslim communities in asia , including the past and current human rights abuses against the muslim rohingya population; ### deleted


### 17. deplores the crimes against muslim communities in asia , including the past and current human rights abuses against the muslim rohingya population; ### 17. deplores the crimes against muslim communities in asia , including the past and current human rights abuses and discriminatory and exclusionary policies against the muslim rohingya population and stresses the need to increase the humanitarian aid to refugees who fled to nearby countries;


### 17. deplores the crimes against muslim communities in asia , including the past and current human rights abuses against the muslim rohingya population; ### 17. deplores the crimes against muslim communities in asia , including the past and current human rights abuses against and the ethnic cleansing of the muslim rohingya population;


### 18. is concerned about the situation of buddhists; takes special note of the difficult situation faced by buddhists in vietnam; ### deleted


### 19. underlines that hindus continued to be harassed in 19 countries in 2018 , most notably in pakistan , bangladesh and sri lanka; ### deleted


### 20. strongly condemns terror attacks on places of worship , including the easter attacks in sri lanka in 2019 , when nine suicide bombers carried out a series of attacks , including on three churches; ### deleted


### 20. strongly condemns terror attacks on places of worship , including the easter attacks in sri lanka in 2019 , when nine suicide bombers carried out a series of attacks , including on three churches; ### 20. strongly condemns terror attacks on places of worship , including the easter attacks in sri lanka in 2019 , when nine suicide bombers carried out a series of attacks , including on three churches , and increasing numbers of attacks against worshippers in afghanistan , including may 2021 attack at sunni mosque in kabul , which took place during a cease-fire to celebrate the eid holiday and killed at least 12 people;


### sub-saharan africa ### deleted


### 21. notes with particular concern the rise of terrorist groups and militias in several parts of africa , including in the sahel , nigeria and mozambique , and of terrorist violence against religious minorities; ### deleted


### 22. strongly condemns , in this regard , the violence , including murder , kidnapping and burning of places of worship , committed by terrorist and militant groups against christian and muslim communities in nigeria , mozambique and the central african republic; ### deleted


### tackling key challenges posed by the persecution against religious minorities ### tackling key challenges posed by the persecution against religious and belief minorities


### 23. stresses the paramount importance of holding accountable perpetrators of human rights abuses against persons belonging to religious minorities; calls on the eu and member states to urgently work towards the establishment of un mechanisms and committees to investigate current human rights violations against religious minorities around the world; ### 23. stresses the paramount importance of holding accountable perpetrators of human rights abuses against persons belonging to religious minorities; calls on the eu and member states to urgently work towards the establishment of un mechanisms and committees to investigate current human rights violations based on religion or belief around the world;


### 24. calls on the council and eu member states to apply sanctions against individuals and entities responsible for or involved in systematic violations of the rights of persons belonging to religious minorities , as provided for by the eu global human rights sanctions regime; ### 24. calls on the council and eu member states to apply sanctions against individuals and entities responsible for or involved in systematic abuses or violations of freedom of religion or belief , as provided for by the eu global human rights sanctions regime (eu magnitsky act); notes that the rome statute covers both crimes against humanity and genocide based on the persecution of groups on the basis of religion or belief and establishes a fundamental international legal framework to fight impunity; calls on the eu and its member states to increase their political and financial support to the international criminal court and calls on un member states to commit to the fight against impunity in this context through the ratification of the rome statute;


### 24. calls on the council and eu member states to apply sanctions against individuals and entities responsible for or involved in systematic violations of the rights of persons belonging to religious minorities , as provided for by the eu global human rights sanctions regime; ### 24. calls on the council and eu member states to apply sanctions against individuals and entities responsible for or involved in serious violations or abuses of the rights of persons belonging to minorities on grounds of belief or religion , as provided for by the eu global human rights sanctions regime;


### 24. calls on the council and eu member states to apply sanctions against individuals and entities responsible for or involved in systematic violations of the rights of persons belonging to religious minorities , as provided for by the eu global human rights sanctions regime; ### 24. calls on the council and eu member states to apply sanctions against individuals and entities responsible for or involved in systematic violations of the rights of persons belonging to religious minorities , as provided for by the eu global human rights sanctions regime (eu magnitsky act);


### 25. is appalled by the exacerbation of persecution against religious minority groups during the covid-19 pandemic; denounces the fact that persons belonging to religious minorities have been scapegoated , blamed for spreading the covid-19 virus , and have been denied or faced discrimination in access to public healthcare , food or humanitarian aid , on the basis of religious or belief criteria; ### 25. is appalled by the exacerbation of persecution against minority groups during the covid-19 pandemic; denounces the fact that persons belonging to minorities have been scapegoated , blamed for spreading the covid-19 virus , and have been denied or faced discrimination in access to public healthcare , food or humanitarian aid , on the basis of their religion or belief;


### 25. is appalled by the exacerbation of persecution against religious minority groups during the covid-19 pandemic; denounces the fact that persons belonging to religious minorities have been scapegoated , blamed for spreading the covid-19 virus , and have been denied or faced discrimination in access to public healthcare , food or humanitarian aid , on the basis of religious or belief criteria; ### 25. is appalled by the exacerbation of persecution against religious and belief minorities during the covid-19 pandemic; denounces the fact that persons belonging to religious and belief minorities have been scapegoated , blamed for spreading the covid-19 virus , and have been denied or faced discrimination in access to public healthcare , food or humanitarian aid , on the basis of religious or belief criteria;


### 26. underlines that women belonging to religious minorities have been specifically and increasingly targeted with the purpose of inflicting harm on their community as a whole; stresses that they are particularly exposed to violent attacks , kidnapping , sexual violence , forced conversion , forced and early marriage and domestic incarceration , and that lockdown measures taken during the covid-19 pandemic have made their human rights situation even more precarious; ### 26. underlines that women belonging to religious and belief minorities have been specifically and increasingly targeted with the purpose of inflicting harm on their community as a whole; condemns all types of gender-based violence against women; stresses that they are particularly exposed to violent attacks , kidnapping , rape and sexual violence , forced conversion , female genital mutilation , beatings , forced and early marriage and domestic incarceration , and that lockdown measures taken during the covid-19 pandemic have made their human rights situation even more precarious; strongly condemns the use of forced sterilization against women as an extremely violent form of persecution;


### 26. underlines that women belonging to religious minorities have been specifically and increasingly targeted with the purpose of inflicting harm on their community as a whole; stresses that they are particularly exposed to violent attacks , kidnapping , sexual violence , forced conversion , forced and early marriage and domestic incarceration , and that lockdown measures taken during the covid-19 pandemic have made their human rights situation even more precarious; ### 26. underlines that women belonging to religious or belief minorities have been specifically and increasingly targeted with the purpose of inflicting harm on their community as a whole; stresses that they are particularly exposed to violent attacks , kidnapping , sexual violence , forced conversion , forced and early marriage and domestic incarceration , and that lockdown measures taken during the covid-19 pandemic have made their human rights situation even more precarious;


### 27. condemns the use by authoritarian regimes of legislation on security , sedition and the fight against terrorism and extremism as an instrument to persecute persons belonging to religious minorities , to outlaw the practise or expression of their religion and gatherings of believers , and to deter the registration of religious associations; calls on the commission and european external action service (eeas) to monitor carefully the implementation of such legislation , and to consistently raise this issue in bilateral dialogues with the governments concerned; urges eu member states to reject any request by foreign authorities for judicial and police cooperation in individual judicial cases if they are based on such legislation; ### 27. condemns the use of legislation on security , sedition and the fight against terrorism and extremism as an instrument to persecute persons belonging to religious or belief minorities , to outlaw the practise or expression of their religion or belief , and to deter the registration of religious and belief-related associations; calls on the commission and european external action service (eeas) to monitor carefully the implementation of such legislation , and to consistently raise this issue in bilateral dialogues with the governments concerned; urges eu member states to reject any request by foreign authorities for judicial and police cooperation in individual judicial cases if they are based on such legislation;


### 27. condemns the use by authoritarian regimes of legislation on security , sedition and the fight against terrorism and extremism as an instrument to persecute persons belonging to religious minorities , to outlaw the practise or expression of their religion and gatherings of believers , and to deter the registration of religious associations; calls on the commission and european external action service (eeas) to monitor carefully the implementation of such legislation , and to consistently raise this issue in bilateral dialogues with the governments concerned; urges eu member states to reject any request by foreign authorities for judicial and police cooperation in individual judicial cases if they are based on such legislation; ### 27. condemns the use by authoritarian regimes of legislation on security , sedition and the fight against terrorism and extremism as an instrument to persecute persons belonging to religious and belief minorities , to outlaw the practise or expression of their religion or belief , and to deter the registration of religious or belief associations; calls on the commission and european external action service (eeas) to monitor carefully the implementation of such legislation , and to consistently raise this issue in bilateral dialogues with the governments concerned; urges eu member states to reject any request by foreign authorities for judicial and police cooperation in individual judicial cases if they are based on such legislation;


### 28. deplores the fact that more than 70 countries in the world enforce criminal laws or seek to introduce new legislation which provide for punishments for blasphemy , apostasy and conversion , including the death sentence; notes that laws already in place are used disproportionately against people belonging to religious minorities , and are thus seen , with good reason , as an instrument of oppression; calls for the eu to intensify its political dialogue with all countries concerned with a view to repeal those laws; ### 28. deplores the fact that more than 70 countries in the world enforce criminal laws or seek to introduce new legislation which provide for punishments for blasphemy , apostasy and conversion , including the death sentence; notes that laws already in place are used disproportionately against people on grounds of religion or belief , as an instrument of oppression; calls for the eu to intensify its political dialogue with all countries concerned with a view to repeal those laws; deplores in this context , that at least 9 eu member states maintain criminal blasphemy or religious insult laws and underscores that the eu's external action in support of freedom of religion and belief would gain in credibility and legitimacy by addressing this internal situation;


### 28. deplores the fact that more than 70 countries in the world enforce criminal laws or seek to introduce new legislation which provide for punishments for blasphemy , apostasy and conversion , including the death sentence; notes that laws already in place are used disproportionately against people belonging to religious minorities , and are thus seen , with good reason , as an instrument of oppression; calls for the eu to intensify its political dialogue with all countries concerned with a view to repeal those laws; ### 28. deplores the fact that more than 70 countries in the world enforce criminal laws or seek to introduce new legislation which provide for punishments for blasphemy , apostasy and conversion , including the death sentence; notes that laws already in place are used disproportionately against people belonging to religious and belief minorities , and are thus seen , with good reason , as an instrument of oppression; calls for the eu to intensify its political dialogue with all countries concerned with a view to repeal those laws;


### strengthening eu human rights foreign policy and external actions to address the persecution of religious minorities ### strengthening eu human rights foreign policy and external actions to protect the freedom of belief and religious of persons belonging to minority groups


### 29. welcomes the recent appointment of mr christos stylianides as the eu special envoy for the promotion of freedom of religion or belief; calls on the commission to include objectives for the fight against persecution of minorities on the grounds of belief or religion as important part of his mandate; recommends that the special envoy works closely with the eu special representative for human rights and the council working group on human rights (cohom) , and reiterates its calls on the council and the commission to adequately support the special envoy’s institutional mandate , capacity and duties; ### 29. takes note of the recent appointment of mr christos stylianides as the eu special envoy for the promotion of freedom of religion or belief; deplores that the commission did not carry out a transparent and comprehensive assessment of the effectiveness and added value of the position of the special envoy in the process of the renewal of this mandate , as requested by the parliament; calls on the commission to include objectives for the fight against persecution of minorities on the grounds of belief or religion as important part of his mandate; insists that the special envoy works closely and in a complementary manner with the eu special representative for human rights , and reports annually on the countries visited and his thematic priorities; encourages the special envoy not to neglect the situation of non-believers and to enhance his outreach and advocacy in relation to the non-confessional dimension of his mandate;


### 30. calls on the council , the commission , eeas and eu member states to address persecutions based on belief or religion as a priority of eu human rights foreign policy , in line with the eu action plan for human rights and democracy for 2020-2024; stresses that a multi-layered and multi-actor approach is needed to protect and promote freedom of religion or belief , encompassing human rights , conflict resolution and interfaith initiatives that involve multiple state and non-state actors; reiterates its call for a public review of the eu guidelines on freedom of religion or belief , allowing for the assessment of their implementation and of proposals for their update; also calls for progress reports on the implementation of the guidelines to be communicated regularly to parliament; ### 30. calls on the council , the commission , eeas and eu member states to address persecutions based on belief or religion as an important element of eu human rights foreign policy , in line with the eu action plan for human rights and democracy for 2020-2024; stresses that a multi-layered and multi-actor approach is needed to protect and promote freedom of religion or belief , encompassing human rights , dialogue and mediation , conflict resolution and prevention in cooperation with multiple state and non-state actors such as faith-based organisations , religious leaders and actors , non-believer's groups , civil society organizations and human rights defenders; calls for enhanced cooperation with un initiatives on this matter; reiterates its call for a public review of the eu guidelines on freedom of religion or belief , allowing for the assessment of their implementation and of proposals for their update; also calls for progress reports on the implementation of the guidelines to be communicated regularly to parliament;


### 30. calls on the council , the commission , eeas and eu member states to address persecutions based on belief or religion as a priority of eu human rights foreign policy , in line with the eu action plan for human rights and democracy for 2020-2024; stresses that a multi-layered and multi-actor approach is needed to protect and promote freedom of religion or belief , encompassing human rights , conflict resolution and interfaith initiatives that involve multiple state and non-state actors; reiterates its call for a public review of the eu guidelines on freedom of religion or belief , allowing for the assessment of their implementation and of proposals for their update; also calls for progress reports on the implementation of the guidelines to be communicated regularly to parliament; ### 30. calls on the council , the commission , eeas and eu member states to address persecutions based on belief or religion as a priority of eu human rights foreign policy , in line with the eu action plan for human rights and democracy for 2020-2024; stresses that a multi-layered and multi-actor approach is needed to protect and promote freedom of religion or belief , encompassing human rights , conflict resolution and interfaith initiatives that involve multiple state and non-state actors; reiterates its call for a regular and public review of all eu thematic guidelines on human rights , including those on freedom of religion or belief , allowing for the assessment of their implementation and of proposals for their update; also calls for progress reports on the implementation of the thematic eu guidelines to be communicated regularly to parliament;


### 31. urges the eeas and eu delegations to include objectives specifically related to the protection of religious minorities for all relevant situations , as part of the human rights and democracy country strategies (hrdcss) for 2021-2024. and to consistently raise general issues and specific cases relating to the persecution of religious minorities during human rights dialogues with partner countries; reiterates its call for members of the european parliament to be given access to the content of hrdcss; ### 31. urges the eeas and eu delegations to include objectives specifically related to freedom of religion and belief for all relevant situations , as part of the human rights and democracy country strategies (hrdcss) for 2021-2024 and to consistently raise general issues and specific cases relating to the discrimination against or persecution of minorities during human rights dialogues with partner countries; reiterates its call for members of the european parliament to be given access to the content of hrdcss; observes that atheism and the non-religious population are growing rapidly worldwide and should not be neglected in the eu policy framework;


### 31. urges the eeas and eu delegations to include objectives specifically related to the protection of religious minorities for all relevant situations , as part of the human rights and democracy country strategies (hrdcss) for 2021-2024. and to consistently raise general issues and specific cases relating to the persecution of religious minorities during human rights dialogues with partner countries; reiterates its call for members of the european parliament to be given access to the content of hrdcss; ### 31. urges the eeas and eu delegations to include objectives specifically related to the protection of religious minorities for all relevant situations , as part of the human rights and democracy country strategies (hrdcss) for 2021-2024. and to consistently raise general issues and specific cases relating to the persecution of religious and belief minorities during human rights dialogues with partner countries including a gender-perspective; reiterates its call for members of the european parliament to be given access to the content of hrdcss;


### 32. calls on the commission and eeas to scrutinise the human rights situations of religious minorities in third countries and the implementation of related commitments under bilateral agreements of those countries with the eu; ### 32. calls on the commission and eeas to scrutinise the human rights situations of religious and belief minorities in third countries and the implementation of related commitments under bilateral agreements of those countries with the eu; calls on the commission to ensure an adequate funding for freedom of religion and belief under the recently adopted global europe instrument , and to respect the principles of pluralism , neutrality and fairness when allocating funds for this purpose;


### 32. calls on the commission and eeas to scrutinise the human rights situations of religious minorities in third countries and the implementation of related commitments under bilateral agreements of those countries with the eu; ### 32. calls on the commission and eeas to scrutinise the human rights situations of religious or belief minorities in third countries and the implementation of related commitments under bilateral agreements of those countries with the eu;


### 33. recommends strengthening eu multilateral engagement with like-minded states and other actors with a view to promoting and mainstreaming the respect for religious minorities in human rights policies everywhere in the world; calls for the eu and eu member states to enhance cooperation with the un , the council of europe and the organization for security and co-operation in europe (osce) , to intensify its dialogues with the african union and the organisation of islamic cooperation , and to forge alliances with third countries in order to provide international responses to human rights issues faced by religious minorities , in particular those who are most vulnerable or targeted in conflict areas; also recommends that the eu continue to be the lead sponsor of resolutions on freedom of thought , conscience , religion or belief in the un general assembly and the un human rights council; ### 33. recommends strengthening eu multilateral engagement with like-minded states and other actors with a view to promoting and mainstreaming the respect for religious and belief minorities around the world; calls for the eu and eu member states to enhance cooperation with the un , notably the special procedures under the un human rights council , the council of europe and the organization for security and co-operation in europe (osce) , to intensify its dialogues with the african union and the organisation of islamic cooperation , and to forge alliances with third countries in order to provide international responses to human rights issues faced by religious or belief minorities , in particular those who are most vulnerable or targeted in conflict areas; also recommends that the eu continue to be the lead co-sponsor of resolutions on freedom of thought , conscience , religion or belief in the un general assembly and the un human rights council , as well as to take eu-un joint initiatives on discrimination against non-believers (including atheists , apostats , agnostics , humanists , etc.) as well as against religious minorities , also formulating common proposals on how to put an end to such acts;


### 33. recommends strengthening eu multilateral engagement with like-minded states and other actors with a view to promoting and mainstreaming the respect for religious minorities in human rights policies everywhere in the world; calls for the eu and eu member states to enhance cooperation with the un , the council of europe and the organization for security and co-operation in europe (osce) , to intensify its dialogues with the african union and the organisation of islamic cooperation , and to forge alliances with third countries in order to provide international responses to human rights issues faced by religious minorities , in particular those who are most vulnerable or targeted in conflict areas; also recommends that the eu continue to be the lead sponsor of resolutions on freedom of thought , conscience , religion or belief in the un general assembly and the un human rights council; ### 33. recommends strengthening eu multilateral engagement with like-minded states and other actors with a view to promoting and mainstreaming the respect for religious and belief minorities in human rights policies everywhere in the world; calls for the eu and eu member states to enhance cooperation with the un , the council of europe and the organization for security and co-operation in europe (osce) , to intensify its dialogues with the african union , the organization of american states , the association of southeast asian nations , the organisation of islamic cooperation and other regional organisations , and to forge alliances with third countries in order to provide international responses to human rights issues faced by religious and belief minorities , in particular those who are most vulnerable or targeted in conflict areas; also recommends that the eu continue to be the lead sponsor of resolutions on freedom of thought , conscience , religion or belief in the un general assembly and the un human rights council and reiterates its call to step up cooperation with the office of the un high commissioner for human rights and the un special rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief on this matter;


### c. whereas most renewable electricity sources , such as wind and solar , are intermittent and variable; whereas the integration of variable renewable energy sources into the electricity system requires increased flexibility regarding supply and demand; ### c. whereas most renewable energy sources , such as wind and solar , are intermittent and variable; whereas the integration of variable renewable energy sources into the electricity system requires increased flexibility regarding supply and demand while maintaining the principle of unbundling;


### 4. notes that the energy transition towards a renewable-based system requires a well-developed electricity grid and advanced storage technologies , backup generation and demand management in order to secure a constant power supply; ### 4. notes that the energy transition towards a renewable-based system requires well-developed energy grids and advanced storage technologies , backup generation and demand management in order to secure a secure , affordable and sustainable power supply;


### 5. underlines that the transition to a climate-neutral economy must not endanger security of supply; stresses that reliable power supply and the energy transition must go hand in hand; ### 5. underlines that the transition to a climate-neutral economy must not endanger security of supply; stresses that reliable energy supply , cost-efficiency and the energy transition must go hand in hand;


### 6. deeply regrets that infrastructure projects which are crucial to the energy transition often face strong resistance at local level; encourages the member states to actively encourage public support at the local level , for instance through early public participation; ### 6. deeply regrets that infrastructure or larger storage projects which are crucial to the energy transition often face strong resistance and delays at local level; encourages the member states to actively encourage public support at the local level , for instance through early public participation or by enabling local communities to engage , financially participate or to be compensated;


### 7. points out that most member states require operators of storage facilities to pay network charges or energy taxes twice; is convinced that the abolishment of this burden would lead to more energy storage projects being deployed; calls on the commission to prohibit the double taxation related to energy storage projects in its upcoming proposal for a revised energy taxation directive; calls on the member states to abolish any kind of double taxation or charges related to energy storage projects; ### 7. points out that most member states require operators of storage facilities to pay network charges or energy taxes twice; is convinced that the abolishment of this burden would lead to more energy storage projects being deployed; calls on the commission to differentiate between end-use and storage or conversion and prohibit the double taxation related to energy storage projects in its upcoming proposal for a revised energy taxation directive; calls on the member states to abolish any kind of double taxation and redesign charges related to energy storage in a way that the societal benefit from storage is reflected and barriers for storage projects to access the market are removed;


### 9. notes with concern that approval procedures at national level take considerably longer than the maximum periods for pci projects provided for by the ten-e regulation; calls on the commission to address this issue in its upcoming review through an effective enforcement mechanism; ### 9. notes with concern that approval procedures at national level take considerably longer than the maximum periods for pci projects provided for by the ten-e regulation; calls on the commission to address this issue in its upcoming review through an effective enforcement mechanism recognizing the overriding public interest of pci storage projects;


### 12. calls on the commission to take into account the important role of storage in the energy transition when reviewing the state aid guidelines; calls on the commission to make sure that the new guidelines take into account the efficiency and the contribution to grid stability of different storage technologies , so that inefficient funding is avoided; ### 12. calls on the commission to take into account the important role of storage in the energy transition when reviewing the state aid guidelines; calls on the commission to make sure that the new guidelines take into account the efficiency and the contribution to grid stability of different storage technologies , so that inefficient funding and distortion of competition are avoided;


### power to gas ### chemical storage


### 13. acknowledges the high potential of green hydrogen for energy storage and as feedstock for energy-intensive industries; ### 13. acknowledges the high potential of green hydrogen for seasonal energy storage and as feedstock for energy-intensive industries and as a sustainable fuel for several modes of transport;


### 14. notes that there are varying standards in the member states as regards the blending of hydrogen with natural gas; calls , therefore , on the commission to develop minimum blending standards for hydrogen both for the gas grid and end uses; ### 14. notes that there are varying standards in the member states as regards the blending of hydrogen with natural gas which is an important transitional step to advance the use of green hydrogen; therefore calls on the commission to assess and develop minimum blending standards for hydrogen both for the gas grid and end uses;


### 15. calls on the commission to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the cost of retrofitting gas infrastructure for the use of green hydrogen; ### 15. calls on the commission to conduct a comprehensive cost-benefit and availability analysis of retrofitting gas infrastructure , which is important for the use of green hydrogen as storage , to be transported in large quantities or to enable the roll-out of hydrogen mobility; acknowledges the potential of underground gas storage such as empty caverns or pore storage; calls on the commission to include a cost-benefit analysis of such storage facilities;


### batteries ### electrochemical storage


### 17. is concerned that the eu has a very low battery manufacturing capacity; welcomes , therefore , the european battery alliance and the strategic action plan on batteries; calls for continuous support for them and for the implementation of the strategic action plan on batteries to be strengthened; welcomes , in this respect , the commission’s announcement that it will propose legislation on batteries in support of the strategic action plan and the circular economy; calls , in this regard , for life cycle analysis of batteries; ### 17. is concerned that the eu has a very low lithium-ion battery manufacturing capacity; welcomes , therefore , the european battery alliance and the strategic action plan on batteries; calls for for their continuous support covering all technologies; calls for the implementation of the strategic action plan on batteries to be strengthened in line with the circular economy; welcomes , in this respect , the commission’s announcement that it will propose legislation on batteries in support of the strategic action plan and the circular economy; calls , in this regard , for life cycle analysis of batteries;


### 18. is concerned about the eu’s heavy dependence on imports of raw materials for battery production; is convinced that enhanced recycling schemes for batteries could deliver a significant share of the raw materials required for battery production within the eu; ### 18. is concerned about the eu’s heavy dependence on imports of raw materials for battery production and urges the commission to address this dependence in relevant eu strategies; is convinced that enhanced recycling schemes for batteries could deliver a significant share of the raw materials required for battery production within the eu;


### 20. calls on the commission to consider a recycling target for lithium-ion batteries when revising the batteries directive; ### 20. calls on the commission to consider collection and recycling targets for lithium-ion batteries based on critical metal fractions when revising the batteries directive;


### pumped storage ### mechanical storage


### 22. considers that the member states should seek further ways to enhance pumped storage capacity; calls on the member states to remove any administrative obstacles that are delaying these projects and to provide regulatory support for innovative approaches in this field; calls on the commission to prioritise the necessary energy transition , to conduct a comprehensive review of the relevant legislation and to propose changes where necessary; ### 22. considers that the member states should seek further ways to enhance pumped storage capacity; calls on the member states to remove any administrative obstacles that are delaying these projects and to provide regulatory support for innovative approaches in this field; calls on the commission to prioritise the necessary energy transition , to conduct a comprehensive review of the relevant legislation and to propose changes where necessary taking into account the multi-purpose use of existing and new reservoirs;


### 24. considers district heating to be a very efficient tool for energy storage and residential heating in densely populated areas; calls on the commission and the member states to support and develop district heating networks; ### 24. considers district heating and thermal storage in densely populated areas to be a very efficient tool for energy storage providing the necessary flexibility to integrate a greater share of intermittent renewables and waste heat from industrial processes and the tertiary sector; calls on the commission and the member states to support and develop district heating networks; moreover , calls on the commission to take heat infrastructure and thermal storage into account when developing the ten-year network development plans for both entso-e and entso-g;


### (6) the initiative should be implemented through actions that should build upon the strong knowledge base acquired by the key digital technologies joint undertaking. the key digital technologies joint undertaking should be tasked with providing financial support , through any instrument or procedure provided for in horizon europe or the digital europe programme , to actions funded under the initiative. furthermore , the key digital technologies joint undertaking should be renamed to chips joint undertaking. throughout the lifetime of the chips joint undertaking , at least eur 2.5 billion should be dedicated to pilot lines , design infrastructures , competence centres , and other capacity building activities. ### (6) the initiative should be implemented through actions that should build upon the strong knowledge base acquired by the key digital technologies joint undertaking. the key digital technologies joint undertaking should be tasked with providing financial support , through any instrument or procedure provided for in horizon europe or the digital europe programme , to actions funded under the initiative. furthermore , the key digital technologies joint undertaking should be renamed to chips joint undertaking. throughout the lifetime of the chips joint undertaking , up to eur 2 ,875 billion should be dedicated to the chips for europe initiative , of which eur 1 ,525 billion for capacity building activities for pilot lines , design infrastructures , competence centres , and quantum chips and eur 1 ,35 billion for research and innovation activities related to these components. furthermore , eur 1 ,8 billion should be dedicated to research and innovation activities not covered under the chips for europe initiative.


### (8) when the governing board adopts the work programme , the voting rights for the part of the work programme related to capacity building should be limited to the commission and member states only. the voting rights for the part of the work programme related to r&i activities should be equally shared between the commission , the participating states , and the private members. in the event that a decision on one of the two parts of the work programme cannot be reached , the work programme should be adopted including only the part on which a positive decision has been reached. ### (8) the whole governing board should be involved in the preparation of the work programme , participate in the relevant discussions and receive the necessary information. when the governing board adopts the work programme , the voting rights for the part of the work programme related to capacity building should be limited to the commission and member states only. the voting rights for the part of the work programme related to r&i activities should be equally shared between the commission , the participating states , and the private members. in the event that a decision on one of the two parts of the work programme cannot be reached , the work programme should be adopted including only the part on which a positive decision has been reached.


### (13) the chips joint undertaking should facilitate cooperation between the union and international actors by defining a cooperation strategy , including identifying and promoting areas for cooperation in research and development and skills development , and implementing actions where there is a mutual benefit , mainly based on reciprocity. ### (13) the chips joint undertaking should facilitate cooperation between the union and like-minded international actors by defining a cooperation strategy , including identifying and promoting areas for cooperation in research and development and skills development , and implementing actions where there is a mutual benefit , mainly based on reciprocity , taking into account the need for strengthening union's open strategic autonomy and protecting intellectual property rights.


### increase large-scale capacity throughout the union in cutting-edge and next-generation semiconductor technologies to reinforce the union’s advanced design , systems integration and semiconductor production capabilities and limit where possible the environmental footprint. ### increase large-scale capacity throughout the union in cutting-edge and next-generation semiconductor technologies to reinforce the union’s advanced design , equipment and materials development , systems integration and semiconductor production capabilities and limit where possible the environmental footprint.


### up to eur 2 650 000 000 from horizon europe; ### up to eur 3 150 000 000 from horizon europe of which at least eur 500 000 000 shall stem from decommited funds made available again under article15(3) of the financial regulation.


### (3) the european green deal and the climate law set the target for the eu to become climate neutral by 2050 in a manner that contributes to european competitiveness , growth and jobs. for a decarbonised gas markets to be set up and contribute to the energy transition , significantly higher shares of renewable energy sources in an integrated energy system with an active participation of consumers in competitive markets are needed. ### (3) the european green deal and the climate law set the target for the eu to reduce its emissions by at least 55% compared to 1990 levels by 2030 and become climate neutral by 2050 in a manner that contributes to european competitiveness , growth and jobs. this regulation should contribute to achieving these targets. for a decarbonised gas markets to be set up and contribute to the energy transition , significantly higher shares of renewable energy sources in an integrated energy system with an active participation of consumers in competitive markets are needed.


### (4) this regulation aims to facilitate the penetration of renewable and low-carbon gases into the energy system enabling a shift from fossil gas , and to allow these new gases to play an important role towards achieving the eu’s 2030 climate objectives and climate neutrality in 2050. the regulation aims also to set up a regulatory framework that enables and incentivises all market participants to take the transitional role of fossil gas into account while planning their activities to avoid lock-in effects and ensure gradual and timely phase-out of fossil gas notably in all relevant industrial sectors and for heating purposes. ### (4) this regulation aims to facilitate decarbonised , efficient and integrated energy systems consistent with the commission’s energy system integration strategy and hydrogen strategy published in july 2020 , and the commission’s recommendation on the energy efficiency first principle published in september 2021. these initiatives call for transitioning to a more circular energy system with energy efficiency at its core , a greater direct electrification of end-use sectors , prioritising demand-side solutions whenever they are more cost-effective than investments in energy infrastructure , and using renewable fuels , including hydrogen , for end-use applications where electrification is not feasible , not efficient or have higher costs. accordingly , the penetration of renewable and low-carbon gases into the energy system enabling a shift from fossil gas , and to allow these new gases to play an important role towards achieving the eu’s 2030 climate objectives and climate neutrality in 2050. the regulation aims also to set up a regulatory framework that enables and incentivises all market participants to take the transitional role of fossil gas into account while planning their activities to avoid lock-in effects and ensure gradual and timely phase-out of fossil gas notably in all relevant industrial sectors and for heating purposes.


### (13) conditional capacity should only be offered when network operators are not able to offer firm capacity. network operators should define the conditions for conditional capacity on the basis of operational constraints in a transparent and clear manner. the regulatory authority should ensure that the number of conditional capacity products is limited to avoid a fragmentation of the market and to ensure compliance with the principle of providing efficient third-party access. ### (13) conditional capacity should only be offered when network operators are not able to offer firm capacity. network operators should define the conditions for conditional capacity on the basis of operational constraints in a transparent and clear manner. the regulatory authority should ensure that the number and type of conditional capacity products is limited to avoid a fragmentation of the market and to ensure compliance with the principle of providing efficient third-party access.


### (17) in order to ensure greater transparency regarding the development of the gas transmission network in the union , the entso for gas should draw up , publish and regularly update a non-binding union -wide ten-year network development plan on the basis of a joint scenario and the interlinked model ( union -wide network development plan). viable gas transmission networks and necessary regional interconnections , relevant from a commercial or security of supply point of view , should be included in that network development plan. ### (17) in order to ensure greater transparency regarding the development of the gas transmission network in the union , the entso for gas should draw up , publish and regularly update a non-binding union -wide ten-year network development plan on the basis of a joint scenario and the interlinked model ( union -wide network development plan). the union-wide ten-year network development plan should be developed following a transparent process involving meaningful public consultation , and it shall be based on objective and scientific criteria. to that effect , the entso for gas should involve independent scientific bodies (such as the european scientific advisory board on climate change , established under regulation (eu) 2021/1119) in plan development. viable gas transmission networks and necessary regional interconnections , relevant from a commercial or security of supply point of view , should be included in that network development plan. the network development plan should promote the energy efficiency first principle and energy system integration and contribute to the prudent and rational utilisation of natural resources and the achievement of the union’s climate and energy targets.


### (20) network users are to bear the responsibility of balancing their inputs against their off-takes with trading platforms established to better facilitate gas trade between network users. in order to better integrate renewable and low carbon gases within the entry-exit system , the balancing zone should also cover the distribution system level. the virtual trading point should be used to exchange gas between balancing accounts of network users. ### (20) network users are to bear the responsibility of balancing their inputs against their off-takes with trading platforms established to better facilitate gas trade between network users. in order to better integrate renewable and low carbon gases within the entry-exit system , the balancing zone should also cover , to the extent possible , the distribution system level. the virtual trading point should be used to exchange gas between balancing accounts of network users.


### (25) access to natural gas storage facilities and liquefied natural gas (lng) facilities is insufficient in some member states , and therefore the implementation of the existing rules needs to be improved , including as regardsin the transparency area. such improvement should take into account the potential and uptake of renewable and low-carbon gases for these facilities in the internal market. monitoring by the european regulators' group for electricity and gas concluded that the voluntary guidelines for good third-party access practice for storage system operators , agreed by all stakeholders at the madrid forum , are being insufficiently applied and therefore need to be made binding. ### (25) access to natural gas storage facilities and liquefied natural gas (lng) facilities is insufficient in some member states , and therefore the implementation of the existing rules needs to be improved , including as regardsin the transparency area. such improvement should take into account the potential and uptake of renewable and low-carbon gases for these facilities in the internal market and demand-side solutions. monitoring by the european regulators' group for electricity and gas concluded that the voluntary guidelines for good third-party access practice for storage system operators , agreed by all stakeholders at the madrid forum , are being insufficiently applied and therefore need to be made binding.


### (45) in order to amend non-essential elements of this regulation and to supplement this regulation in respect of non-essential elements of certain specific areas which are fundamental for market integration , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission. it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level , and that those consultations be conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in the interinstitutional agreement of 13 april 2016 on better law-making6 . in particular , to ensure equal participation in the preparation of delegated acts , the european parliament and the council should receive all documents at the same time as member states' experts , and their experts should systematically have access to meetings of commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts. ### (45) in order to amend non-essential elements of this regulation and to supplement this regulation in respect of non-essential elements of certain specific areas which are fundamental for market integration , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission. it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level , and that those consultations be conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in the interinstitutional agreement of 13 april 2016 on better law-making6 . in particular , to ensure equal participation in the preparation of delegated acts , the european parliament and the council should receive all documents at the same time as member states' experts , and their experts should systematically have access to meetings of commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts. the commission should also ensure that the public has access to all documents and other information submitted to the commission in connection with its adoption of the delegated act.


### (30) ‘entry-exit system’ means the aggregation of all transmission and distribution systems or all hydrogen networks to which one specific balancing regime applies; ### (30) ‘entry-exit system’ means the aggregation of all transmission systems , which may be extended to distribution systems or parts of them , or all hydrogen networks to which one specific balancing regime applies;


### (33) ‘entry point’ means a point subject to booking procedures by network users or producers providing access to an entry-exit system; ### (33) ‘entry point’ means a point subject to booking procedures by network users providing access to an entry-exit system , enabling gas flows in the entry-exit system;


### (34) ‘exit point’ means a point subject to booking procedures by network users or final customers enabling gas flows out of the entry exit system; ### (34) ‘exit point’ means a point subject to booking procedures by network users providing access to an entry-exit system , enabling gas flows out of the entry exit system ,


### market rules shall enable the decarbonisation of the natural gas and hydrogen systems , including by enabling the integration into the market of gases of gas from renewable energy sources and by providing incentives for energy efficiency; ### market rules shall enable the decarbonisation of the natural gas and hydrogen systems , including by enabling the integration into the market of gases of gas from renewable energy sources and by providing incentives for energy efficiency , furthering the integration of energy systems , contributing to the prudent and rational utilisation of natural resources , facilitating the achievement of the union’s climate and energy targets;


### market rules shall deliver appropriate investment incentives , in particular for long-term investments in a decarbonised and sustainable gas system , for energy storage , energy efficiency and demand response to meet market needs , and shall facilitate fair competition and security of supply; ### market rules shall deliver appropriate investment incentives and incentives for interventions which do not require infrastructure investments where more efficient , in particular for long-term investments in a decarbonised and sustainable gas system , for energy storage , energy efficiency and demand response to meet market needs , and shall facilitate fair competition and security of supply. market rules shall also avoid delivering investment incentives that lead to stranded assets;


### 2. a member state may allow financial transfers between regulated services that are separate as meant in in the first paragraph , provided that: ### 2. a member state shall not allow any form of financial transfers between regulated services that are separate as meant in the first paragraph.


### all revenues needed for the financial transfer are collected as a dedicated charge; ### deleted


### the dedicated charge is collected only from exit points to final customers located within the same member states as the beneficiary of the financial transfer; ### deleted


### the dedicated charge and financial transfer or the methodologies underlying their calculation are approved prior to their entry into force by the regulatory authority referred to in article 70; ### deleted


### the approved dedicated charge and financial transfer and the methodologies , where methodologies are approved are published. ### deleted


### 7. as of 1 january 2031 , article 15 shall apply also to tariffs for access to hydrogen networks. no tariffs shall be charged pursuant to article 15for access to hydrogen networks at interconnection points between member states. where a member state decides to apply regulated third party access to hydrogen networks in accordance with article 31 of [recast gas directive] before 1 january 2031 , paragraph 1 of article 15 shall be applicable to access tariff to hydrogen networks in that member state. ### 7. as of 1 january 2031 , article 15 shall apply also to tariffs for access to hydrogen networks. the concerned regulatory authorities shall jointly agree on the tariff regime for access to hydrogen networks at interconnection points between member states , including the possibility of avoiding the application of charges. in case they cannot reach an agreement , acer shall decide on the tariff regime for access to hydrogen networks at interconnection points between the concerned member states , following the process set out in article 6(10) of regulation (eu) 2019/942. where a member state decides to apply regulated third party access to hydrogen networks in accordance with article 31 of [recast gas directive] before 1 january 2031 , paragraph 1 of article 15 shall be applicable to access tariff to hydrogen networks in that member state.


### [...] ### deleted


### 2. paragraph 1 shall be without prejudice to the possibility for transmission system operators to develop alternatives to reverse flow investments , such as smart grid solutions or connection to other network operators. firm access may only be limited to offer capacities subject to operational limitations , in order to ensure economic efficiency. the regulatory authority shall ensure that any limitations in firm capacity or operational limitations are introduced on the basis of transparent and non-discriminatory procedures and do not create undue barriers to market entry. where the production facility bears the costs related to ensuring firm capacity , no limitation shall apply. ### 2. paragraph 1 shall be without prejudice to the possibility for transmission system operators to develop alternatives to reverse flow investments , such as smart grid solutions or connection to other network operators. firm access may only be limited to offer capacities subject to operational limitations , in order to ensure economic efficiency. the regulatory authority shall be responsible to review and approve the tso’s conditions for conditional capacity and ensure that any limitations in firm capacity or operational limitations are introduced on the basis of transparent and non-discriminatory procedures and do not create undue barriers to market entry. where the production facility bears the costs related to ensuring firm capacity , no limitation shall apply.


### 6. the concerned regulatory authorities shall take a joint coordinated decision for removing the recognised restriction , taking into account the cost benefit analysis prepared by the concerned transmission system operators and the results of the public consultation within six months as set out in article 6(10) of regulation (eu) 2019/942. ### 6. the concerned regulatory authorities shall take a joint coordinated decision for removing the recognised restriction or for granting or prolonging a temporary exemption , to be reviewed every four years , based on the cost benefit analysis prepared by the concerned transmission system operators and the results of the public consultation within six months as set out in article 6(10) of regulation (eu) 2019/942.


### 10. where the relevant regulatory authorities cannot take a joint coordinated decisions as referred to in paragraphs 6 and 7 , acer shall decide on the solution to remove the recognised restriction and on the allocation of the investment costs to be borne by each transmission system operator for implementing the agreed solution , following the process set out in article 6(10) of regulation (eu) 2019/942. ### 10. where the relevant regulatory authorities cannot take a joint coordinated decisions as referred to in paragraphs 6 and 7 , acer shall decide on the solution to remove the recognised restriction and on the allocation of the investment costs to be borne by each transmission system operator for implementing the agreed solution or to grant or prolong a temporary exemption , to be reviewed every four years , following the process set out in article 6(10) of regulation (eu) 2019/942.


### 11. further details required to implement elements of this article , including details on the cost benefit analysis , shall be set in a network code established on the basis of article 53 of this regulation. ### 11. further details required to implement elements of this article , including details on the cost benefit analysis and on a common binding natural gas quality specification for cross-border natural gas interconnectors , shall be set in a network code established on the basis of article 53 of this regulation.


### 1. transmission system operators shall accept gas flows with a hydrogen content of up to 5% by volume at interconnection points between union member states in the natural gas system from 1 october 2025 , subject to the procedure described in article 19 of this regulation. ### 1. the mandatory acceptance of gas flows with a h2 content of up to 5% by volume at ips between eu members from 1 october 2025 is essential to support the hydrogen market uptake in peripheral regions and to avoid market fragmentation.


### 1. transmission system operators shall accept gas flows with a hydrogen content of up to 5% by volume at interconnection points between union member states in the natural gas system from 1 october 2025 , subject to the procedure described in article 19 of this regulation. ### 1. transmission system operators shall accept gas flows with a hydrogen content of up to 2% by volume at interconnection points between union member states in the natural gas system from 1 october 2025 , subject to the procedure described in article 19 of this regulation.


### 2. when the hydrogen content blended in the natural gas system exceeds 5% by volume , the process described in article 19 of this regulation shall not apply. ### 2. when the hydrogen content blended in the natural gas system exceeds 2% by volume , the process described in article 19 of this regulation shall not apply.


### 1. the entso shall submit to the commission and to acer the draft statutes , a list of members and draft rules of procedure , including the rules of procedures on the consultation of other stakeholders , of the entso for gas in case of changes of those documents or upon a reasoned request of the commission or acer . ### 1. the entso shall publish and submit to the commission and to acer the draft statutes , a list of members and draft rules of procedure , including the rules of procedures on the consultation of other stakeholders , of the entso for gas in case of changes of those documents or upon a reasoned request of the commission or acer . the draft updated rules of procedure shall ensure balanced representation of all participating transmission system operators , including those solely owning or operating natural gas systems , as well as transparency in the functioning of the entso for gas , including publication of meeting agendas and full meeting minutes of external and internal meetings.


### the union-wide network development plan referred to in paragraph 3 , point (b) , shall include the modelling of the integrated network , including hydrogen networks , scenario development , a european supply adequacy outlook and an assessment of the resilience of the system. ### the union-wide network development plan referred to in paragraph 3 , point (b) , shall include the modelling of the integrated network , including hydrogen networks , scenario development , a european supply adequacy outlook and an assessment of the resilience of the system. the plan shall promote the energy efficiency first principle and energy system integration , contribute to the prudent and rational utilisation of natural resources and to achieving the union’s climate and energy targets.


### 10. acer shall review national ten-year network development plans to assess their consistency with the union -wide network development plan. if acer identifies inconsistencies between a national ten-year network development plan and the union -wide network development plan , it shall recommend amending the national ten-year network development plan or the union -wide network development plan as appropriate. if such national ten-year network development plan is elaborated in accordance with article 51 of [recast directive as proposed in com(2021) xxx] , acer shall recommend that the competent regulatory authority amend the national ten-year network development plan in accordance with article 51(5) of that directive and inform the commission thereof. ### 10. acer shall review national ten-year network development plans to assess their consistency with the union -wide network development plan. if acer identifies inconsistencies between a national ten-year network development plan and the union -wide network development plan , it shall recommend amending the national ten-year network development plan or the union -wide network development plan as appropriate. if such national ten-year network development plan is elaborated in accordance with article 51 of [recast directive as proposed in com(2021) xxx] , acer shall recommend that the competent regulatory authority amend the national ten-year network development plan in accordance with article 51(5) of that directive and inform the commission thereof. the union-wide network development plan and the national ten-year network development plan shall be amended in accordance with acer’s recommendations.


### 6. the concerned regulatory authorities shall take a joint coordinated decision for removing the recognised restriction , taking into account the cost-benefit analysis prepared by the concerned transmission system operators and the results of the public consultation within six months as set out in article 6(10) of regulation (eu) 2019/942. ### 6. the concerned regulatory authorities shall take a joint coordinated decision for removing the recognised restriction or for granting or prolonging a temporary exemption , to be reviewed every four years , based on the cost-benefit analysis prepared by the concerned transmission system operators and the results of the public consultation within six months as set out in article 6(10) of regulation (eu) 2019/942.


### 10. where the relevant regulatory authorities cannot take a joint coordinated decisions as referred to in paragraphs 6 and 7 of this article , acer shall decide on the solution to remove the recognised restriction and on the allocation of the investment costs to be borne by each system operator for implementing the agreed solution , following the process set out in article 6(10) of regulation (eu) 2019/942. ### 10. where the relevant regulatory authorities cannot take a joint coordinated decisions as referred to in paragraphs 6 and 7 of this article , acer shall decide on the solution to remove the recognised restriction and on the allocation of the investment costs to be borne by each system operator for implementing the agreed solution or to grant or prolong a temporary exemption , to be reviewed every four years , following the process set out in article 6(10) of regulation (eu) 2019/942.


### 3. the ennoh shall submit the draft union-wide network development plan , the draft annual work programme , including the information regarding the consultation process , and the other documents referred to in article 42 to acer for its opinion. . ### 3. the ennoh shall submit the draft union-wide network development plan , the draft annual work programme , including the information regarding the consultation process , and the other documents referred to in article 42 to acer for its opinion. when received from ennoh , acer shall submit the draft union-wide network development plan and the draft annual work programme to the european scientific advisory board on climate change , which shall publish an independent analysis and opinion regarding their consistency with the union’s climate and energy targets.


### where it considers that the draft annual work programme or the draft union-wide network development plan submitted by the ennoh does not contribute to non-discrimination , effective competition , the efficient functioning of the market or a sufficient level of cross-border interconnection , acer shall provide a duly reasoned opinion as well as recommendations to the ennoh and to the commission within two months of the submission of the programme or the plan. ### where it considers that the draft annual work programme or the draft union-wide network development plan submitted by the ennoh does not contribute to non-discrimination , effective competition , the efficient functioning of the market or a sufficient level of cross-border interconnection , acer shall provide a duly reasoned opinion as well as recommendations to the ennoh and to the commission within two months of the submission of the programme or the plan. the programme and plan shall be amended consistent with acer’s opinion and recommendations.


### (28) ‘strategic stock’ means gas purchased , managed and stored by transmission system operators exclusively for carrying out their functions as transmission system operators and for the purpose of security of supply. gas stored as part of a strategic stock shall be dispatched only where required to keep the system in operation under secure and reliable conditions in line with article 35 [recast gas directive as proposed in com(2021) xxx] or in case of a declared emergency under article 11 of regulation (eu) 2017/1938 of the european parliament and of the council and can otherwise not be sold on wholesale gas markets;’ ### (28) ‘strategic stock’ means gas purchased , managed and stored or held in storage by contract by transmission system operators or any other eligible entity exclusively for carrying out the functions of transmission system operator and for the purpose of security of supply. gas stored as part of a strategic stock shall be dispatched only where required to keep the system in operation under secure and reliable conditions in line with article 35 [recast gas directive as proposed in com(2021) xxx] or in case of a declared emergency under article 11 of regulation (eu) 2017/1938 of the european parliament and of the council and can otherwise not be sold on wholesale gas markets;’


### a) obliging gas storage users to store a minimum volume of gas in underground storage , ### a) obliging gas storage users to store a minimum volume of gas in underground storage , where not fulfilling this obligation may lead to reallocating corresponding capacity during the filling period.


### c) obliging a transmission system operator to purchase and manage strategic stocks of gas , ### c) obliging a transmission system operator or an entity designated by the member state to purchase and manage strategic stocks of gas ,


### such measures shall be subject to consultation in the relevant risk group , in particular on how the measures address the risks identified in the common risk assessment. ### such measures shall apply to any storage facility , including storage sites controlled by third-country entities and be subject to consultation in the relevant risk group , in particular on how the measures address the risks identified in the common risk assessment.


### 4. the measures adopted pursuant to article 7a and paragraph 3 of this article shall be necessary , clearly defined , transparent , proportionate , non-discriminatory and verifiable , and shall not unduly distort competition or the effective functioning of the internal market in gas or endanger the security of gas supply of other member states or of the union. the measures shall not block or restrict cross-border capacities allocated in line with the provisions of commission regulation (eu) 2017/459. ### 4. the measures adopted pursuant to article 7a and paragraph 3 of this article shall be necessary , clearly defined , transparent , proportionate , non-discriminatory and verifiable , and shall not unduly distort competition or the effective functioning of the internal market in gas or endanger the security of gas supply of other member states or of the union. the measures should be without prejudice to national security of supply rules which include gas stocks. the measures shall not block or restrict cross-border capacities allocated in line with the provisions of commission regulation (eu) 2017/459.


### 1. member states may set up a mechanism for the joint procurement of strategic stocks by transmission system operators as part of the preventive measures to ensure security of supply. ### 1. member states may set up a mechanism for the joint procurement of strategic stocks by transmission system operators or an entity designated by the member state as part of the preventive measures to ensure security of supply.


### the mechanism shall be open to participation of all transmission system operators within the union who wish to join after its establishment. ### the mechanism shall be open to participation of all transmission system operators or an entity designated by the member state within the union who wish to join after its establishment.


### 2. the participating member states shall notify their intention to establish such mechanism to the commission. the notification shall include the information necessary to assess the compliance with this regulation , such as the volume of gas to be purchased , the duration of the measure , the participating transmission system operators , the governance arrangements , the operating procedures and conditions for activation in an emergency situation. it shall also specify the costs and benefits expected. ### 2. the participating member states shall notify their intention to establish such mechanism to the commission. the notification shall include the information necessary to assess the compliance with this regulation , such as the volume of gas to be purchased , the duration of the measure , the participating transmission system operators or an entity designated by the member state , the governance arrangements , the operating procedures and conditions for activation in an emergency situation. it shall also specify the costs and benefits expected.


### 13. recommends that an independent union body established under article 187 tfeu as the main entity responsible for the implementation of the eic is the best institutional setting to deliver the implementation of the accelerator along the lines set out above; recommends that this body should be set up at the latest by 2025; ### 13. recommends that a thorough assessment is made of possibilities to improve eic's implementation , considering also an independent union body established under article 187 tfeu as the main entity responsible for the implementation of the eic is the best institutional setting to deliver the implementation of the accelerator along the lines set out above; underlines the need to ensure that in any case , applicants are treated equally , and the implementation ensures transparency , accountability and prevention of conflicts of interest; recommends that this body should be set up at the latest by 2025;


### (1) the european green deal55 is europe’s strategy to ensure , by 2050 , a climate-neutral , clean and circular economy , optimising resource management , minimising pollution while recognising the need for deeply transformative policies. the union is also committed to the 2030 agenda for sustainable development56 and its sustainable development goals57 . the eu chemicals strategy for sustainability58 of october 2020 and the zero pollution action plan59 adopted in may 2021 specifically address pollution aspects of the european green deal. in parallel , the new industrial strategy for europe60 further emphasises the potential role of transformative technologies. other particularly relevant policies for this initiative include the ‘fit for 55’ package61 , the methane strategy62 and the glasgow methane pledge63 , the climate adaptation strategy64 , the biodiversity strategy65 , the farm to fork strategy66 and the sustainable products initiative67 . besides , as part of the eu response to the 2022 russia-ukraine war , repowereu68 proposes a joint european action to support the diversification of energy supplies , accelerate the transition to renewable energy and improve energy efficiency. ### (1) the european green deal55 is europe’s strategy to ensure , by 2050 , a climate-neutral , clean and circular economy , optimising resource management , minimising pollution while recognising the need for deeply transformative policies. the union is also committed to the 2030 agenda for sustainable development56 and its sustainable development goals57 . the eu chemicals strategy for sustainability58 of october 2020 and the zero pollution action plan59 adopted in may 2021 specifically address pollution aspects of the european green deal. in parallel , the new industrial strategy for europe60 further emphasises the potential role of transformative technologies. other particularly relevant policies for this initiative include the ‘fit for 55’ package61 , the methane strategy62 and the glasgow methane pledge63 , the climate adaptation strategy64 , the biodiversity strategy65 , the farm to fork strategy66 , the sustainable products initiative67 and the long-term vision for the eu's rural areas communication 67a. besides , as part of the eu response to the 2022 russia-ukraine war , repowereu68 proposes a joint european action to support the diversification of energy supplies , accelerate the transition to renewable energy and improve energy efficiency.


### (2) the european green deal announced a revision of union measures to address pollution from large industrial installations , including reviewing the sectoral scope of the legislation and how to make it fully consistent with climate , energy and circular economy policies. in addition , the zero pollution action plan , the circular economy action plan and the farm to fork strategy also call for reducing pollutant emissions at source , including sources not currently within the scope of directive 2010/75/eu of the european parliament and of the council69 . addressing pollution from certain agro-industrial activities thus requires their inclusion within the scope of that directive. ### (2) the european green deal announced a revision of union measures to address pollution from large industrial installations , including reviewing the sectoral scope of the legislation and how to make it fully consistent with climate , energy , water and circular economy policies. in addition , the zero pollution action plan , the circular economy action plan and the farm to fork strategy also call for improving resource efficiency and reuse at industrial installations while reducing pollutant emissions at source , including sources not currently within the scope of directive 2010/75/eu of the european parliament and of the council69 . addressing pollution from certain agro-industrial activities thus requires their inclusion within the scope of that directive.


### (2) the european green deal announced a revision of union measures to address pollution from large industrial installations , including reviewing the sectoral scope of the legislation and how to make it fully consistent with climate , energy and circular economy policies. in addition , the zero pollution action plan , the circular economy action plan and the farm to fork strategy also call for reducing pollutant emissions at source , including sources not currently within the scope of directive 2010/75/eu of the european parliament and of the council69 . addressing pollution from certain agro-industrial activities thus requires their inclusion within the scope of that directive. ### (2) the european green deal announced a revision of union measures to address pollution from large industrial installations , including reviewing the sectoral scope of the legislation and how to make it fully consistent with climate , energy and circular economy policies. in addition , the zero pollution action plan , the circular economy action plan and the farm to fork strategy also call for reducing pollutant emissions at source , including sources not currently within the scope of directive 2010/75/eu of the european parliament and of the council69 .


### (4) rearing of pigs , poultry and cattle cause significant pollutant emissions into the air and water. in order to reduce such pollutant emissions , including ammonia , methane , nitrates and greenhouse gas emissions and thereby improve air , water and soil quality , it is necessary to lower the threshold above which pigs and poultry installations are included within the scope of directive 2010/75/eu and to include also cattle farming within that scope. relevant bat requirements take into consideration the nature , size , density and complexity of these installations , including the specificities of pasture based cattle rearing systems , where animals are only seasonally reared in indoor installations , and the range of environmental impacts they may have. the proportionality requirements in bats aim to incentivise farmers to implement the necessary transition towards increasingly environmentally friendly agricultural practices. ### deleted


### (4) rearing of pigs , poultry and cattle cause significant pollutant emissions into the air and water. in order to reduce such pollutant emissions , including ammonia , methane , nitrates and greenhouse gas emissions and thereby improve air , water and soil quality , it is necessary to lower the threshold above which pigs and poultry installations are included within the scope of directive 2010/75/eu and to include also cattle farming within that scope. relevant bat requirements take into consideration the nature , size , density and complexity of these installations , including the specificities of pasture based cattle rearing systems , where animals are only seasonally reared in indoor installations , and the range of environmental impacts they may have. the proportionality requirements in bats aim to incentivise farmers to implement the necessary transition towards increasingly environmentally friendly agricultural practices. ### (4) rearing of pigs , poultry and cattle may cause significant pollutant emissions into the air and water. in order to reduce such pollutant emissions , including ammonia , methane , nitrates and greenhouse gas emissions and thereby improve air , water and soil quality , existing national and european frameworks should be mobilised and existing good practices should be promoted , including with the support of national strategic plans of the cap. in addition to the requirements already set in the cap to reduce emissions from agriculture , any evolution of the scope of directive 2010/75/eu or of the relevant bat requirements should be considered through close dialogue with farmers representatives so as to guarantee the proportionality of the foreseen constraints regarding the expected results and to make sure that farmers are incentivised to keep implementing the necessary transition towards increasingly environmentally friendly agricultural practices , taking into account every aspects , beyond the sole issue of emissions.


### (5) a significant increase in the number of large-scale installations for the production of batteries for electric vehicles will likely take place within the union up to 2040 , increasing the union’s share of the global battery production. whilst several of the activities of the batteries value chain are already regulated by directive 2010/75/eu and batteries are regulated as products by regulation (eu) .../... of the european parliament and of the council* +. , it is still necessary to include in the scope of the directive large installations manufacturing batteries , ensure that they are also covered by the requirements set out in directive 2010/75/eu and therefore contribute to a more sustainable growth of batteries manufacturing. including large installations manufacturing batteries in the scope of directive 2010/75/eu will improve in a holistic way the sustainability of batteries and minimise their impact on the environment throughout their life cycle. ### deleted


### (9) in order to foster energy efficiency of installations within the scope of directive 2010/75/eu which are carrying out activities listed in annex i to directive 2003/87/ec , it is appropriate to submit those installations to energy efficiency requirements in respect of combustion units or other units emitting carbon dioxide on the site. ### deleted


### (16) the contribution of directive 2010/75/eu to resource and energy efficiency and circular economy in the union should be made more effective , taking into consideration the ‘energy efficiency first’ as a guiding principle of the union energy policy. therefore , the permits should establish , where possible , mandatory environmental performance limit values on consumption and resource efficiency levels , including on the use of water , energy and recycled materials , based on the environmental performance levels associated with the best available techniques (bat aepls) set out in decisions on bat conclusions. ### (16) the contribution of directive 2010/75/eu to resource and energy efficiency and circular economy in the union should be made more effective , taking into consideration the ‘energy efficiency first’ as a guiding principle of the union energy policy. therefore , the permits should establish , when possible , mandatory environmental performance limit values on consumption and resource efficiency levels , including on the consumption of water , energy , and raw materials , and their reuse , based on the environmental performance levels associated with the best available techniques (bat aepls) set out in decisions on bat conclusions.