### 7. welcomes the positive evaluation of the trans-european transport network (ten-t) policy progress and the agreement on the streamlining directive , which will play a key role in accelerating pre-identified cross-border projects on the core network; notes however that there are bottlenecks along the corridors where more focus is needed to guarantee connectivity and timely completion of the core network by 2030; is concerned that phased and new projects along the ten-t network are at risk due delays in adoption of partnership agreements and cohesion programmes for the 2021-2027 period; ### 7. welcomes the positive evaluation of the trans-european transport network (ten-t) policy progress and the agreement on the streamlining directive , which will play a key role in accelerating pre-identified cross-border projects on the core network; notes however that there are bottlenecks along the corridors where more focus is needed to guarantee connectivity and timely completion of the core network by 2030; is concerned that phased and new projects along the ten-t network are at risk due delays in adoption of partnership agreements and cohesion programmes for the 2021-2027 period; therefore , invites the european ten-t coordinators to conduct a thorough assessment of the projects completed and the improvements achieved along the ten-t corridors under the current programming period , and to present it to the commission and the parliament; furthermore , asks the commission to propose a new result-oriented mechanism including short , mid and long-term planning and technical assistance , to increase the added value of european funds and to ensure that member states will meet the 2030 and 2050 completion targets , respectively for the core and comprehensive networks;


### 8. stresses that the covid-19 pandemic placed transport and tourism in union under an unprecedented pressure and welcomes the commission’s efforts to provide relief to the sectors and financing using the coronavirus response investment initiatives (crii and crii+) , cef , rrf , cohesion fund , investeu , erdf; ### 8. stresses that the covid-19 pandemic placed transport and tourism in union under an unprecedented pressure and calls on the commission to further develop its mechanism and tools providing awareness and information to citizens and stakeholders on the tourism and transport projects it funds under the european regional development fund and cohesion funds”;


### 2. acknowledges dg eac’s efforts to prevent under-implementation of programmes due to the covid-19 pandemic; welcomes the measures taken to mitigate the effects of the crisis on applicants and beneficiaries; ### 2. acknowledges dg eac’s flexibility and efforts to prevent under-implementation of programmes due to the covid-19 pandemic; welcomes the measures taken to mitigate the effects of the crisis on applicants and beneficiaries , such as extending application deadlines , extending the duration of ongoing projects , supporting additional costs up to the maximum amounts granted to projects under the applicable legal frameworks , and applying further flexibility towards blended activities;


### 2. acknowledges that high-risk expenditures are subject to complex rules and eligibility conditions; notes that the estimated level of error decreased from 4 ,9% in 2019 to 4 ,0% in 2020 and that six possible fraud cases were reported to olaf in comparison to 2019’s nine; recalls that the way funds are disbursed has an impact on the risk of errors and welcomes efforts to simplify requirements for project managers and management authorities under the 2021-2027 programming period; ### 2. acknowledges that high-risk expenditures are often subject to complex rules and eligibility conditions , leading to an increased risk of errors; notes that the estimated level of error decreased from 4 ,9% in 2019 to 4 ,0% in 2020; recalls that the way funds are disbursed has an impact on the risk of errors and welcomes efforts to simplify requirements for project managers and management authorities under the 2021-2027 programming period; encourages wider use of the simplified cost options that have the potential to reduce beneficiaries’ administrative burden and are considered less prone to error , while at the same time ensuring that the scheme does not result in excessive imbalances in favour of member states;


### 3. points out that the work of audit authorities in the member states plays a critical role in limiting residual error rates and is worried about the weaknesses of several audit authorities; urges the commission to offer support and technical assistance to audit authorities in order to eliminate inefficiencies and disseminate good practices; ### 3. points out that the work of audit authorities in the member states plays a critical role in limiting residual error rates and is worried about the weaknesses found in the work of several audit authorities which continue to limit the reliance that can be placed in their work; urges the commission to offer support and technical assistance to audit authorities in order to eliminate inefficiencies and disseminate good practices; welcomes that , in 2020 , the commission increased the number of its compliance audits and recognises the commission’s capacity to detect errors and its commitment to correct them in due time , which reduced the estimated level of error by 0 ,7%;


### 10. is worried about the fact that for 2020 financial year , the court of auditors (the “court”) concluded that the weaknesses detected in some audit authorities’ sampling methods have limited the reliance that can be placed on that work; ### 10. is worried about the fact that for 2020 financial year , the court of auditors (the “court”) concluded that the weaknesses detected in some audit authorities’ sampling methods have limited the reliance that can be placed on that work; recalls the crucial role of audit authorities in the member states in the assurance and control framework in cohesion;


### 12. notes that the esf expenses increased from eur 11.2 billion in 2019 to eur 13.7 billion in 2020 due to increased implementation; ### 12. recalls the vital importance of the esf as the eu's main tool in fostering increased employment and labour mobility , education and vocational training for skills and lifelong learning and promoting social inclusion , combatting poverty and discrimination; notes the court’s report on ‘the performance of the eu budget – status at the end of 2020’ which found that while the esf’s performance framework increased the availability of performance information , the focus remained on financial inputs and outputs , rather than on results and that esf-funded activities continue to face difficulties in reaching people who are disconnected from the labour market , such as neets; notes that the esf expenses increased from eur 11.2 billion in 2019 to eur 13.7 billion in 2020 due to increased implementation;


### 1. recalls that in 2020 the total available budget for the union programmes and actions under the portfolio of directorate-general for education , youth , sport and culture (dg eac) amounted to eur 6 043 million in commitment appropriations (some 7 % more than in 2019); notes that , despite the unavoidable cancellation of some activities due to the covid-19 pandemic and thanks to the measures taken under the ‘force majeure’ clause , dg eac achieved most targets in 2020 and executed commitments fully and payments virtually fully , as did directorate-general for communications networks , content and technology (dg connect) for relevant expenditure; ### 1. recalls that in 2020 the total available budget for the union programmes and actions under the portfolio of directorate-general for education , youth , sport and culture (dg eac) amounted to eur 6 043 million in commitment appropriations (some 7 % more than in 2019); notes that , despite the unavoidable cancellation or postponement of some activities due to the covid-19 pandemic and thanks to the measures taken under the ‘force majeure’ clause , dg eac achieved most targets in 2020 and executed commitments fully and payments virtually fully , as did directorate-general for communications networks , content and technology (dg connect) for relevant expenditure;


### 1. notes that , the estimated level of error in spending on ‘economic , social and territorial cohesion’ decreased from 4 ,4% in 2019 to 3 ,5% in 2020; welcomes the continuous improvement , but is disappointed that it has not proven possible to decrease the error rate below 2%; ### 1. notes that , as indicated in the annual report of the court of auditors for the financial year 2020 , the estimated level of error in spending on ‘economic , social and territorial cohesion’ decreased from 4 ,4% in 2019 to 3 ,5% in 2020; welcomes the continuous improvement , but is disappointed that it has not proven possible to decrease the error rate below 2% and the effects of error are therefore material and pervasive; notes that the main reasons for this error rate are ineligibility of projects and costs , infringement of internal market rules mainly related to state aid and public procurement , and absence of essential supporting documents;


### 18. notes with concern that , in its special report 15/2020 "protection of wild pollinators in the eu —commission initiatives have not borne fruit" , the court found that union measures did not ensure the protection of wild pollinators and that union pesticides legislation was a main cause of wild pollinator loss; ### 18. notes with concern that , in its special report 15/2020 "protection of wild pollinators in the eu —commission initiatives have not borne fruit" , the court found that union measures did not ensure the protection of wild pollinators , including by not establishing a legal framework for the protection and restoration of the species by the eu pollinators initiative , and that union pesticides legislation was a major cause of wild pollinator loss; underlines that the new expected eu pollinators strategy must allocate specific financial resources for its successful implementation and assign clear roles to an adequate number of officials implementing the actions across different eu policy instruments and representing all relevant directorates;


### 116. underlines its request for the commission to ensure a fair geographical balance of its members of staff at all levels while at the same time fulfilling the requirements in the staff regulation in relation to competences and merits of candidates; ### 116. underlines its request for the commission to ensure a fair geographical balance of its members of staff at all levels , especially at middle and senior management levels where strong imbalances persist , while at the same time fulfilling the requirements in the staff regulation in relation to competences and merits of candidates;


### b. whereas the eu is being confronted with new trends and challenges in automation that could have a huge impact on road safety; whereas the growing phenomenon of distraction by mobile devices needs to be addressed; whereas in the near future , the presence of both vehicles with a wide range of automated/connected features and traditional vehicles in mixed traffic will pose a new risk , especially for vulnerable road users such as motorcyclists , cyclists and pedestrians; ### b. whereas the eu is being confronted with new trends and challenges in automation that could have a huge impact on road safety; whereas the growing phenomenon of distraction by mobile devices needs to be addressed; whereas some technological advances , connectivity and automation , create new road safety opportunities to reduce or compensate for human errors; whereas in the near future , the presence of both vehicles with a wide range of automated/connected features and traditional vehicles in mixed traffic will pose new challenges , especially for vulnerable road users such as motorcyclists , cyclists and pedestrians;


### c. whereas the share of road deaths of vulnerable road users is increasing , as car users have been the main beneficiaries of improved vehicle safety and other road safety measures; whereas the safety of cyclists and pedestrians must be urgently addressed; ### c. whereas the share of road deaths of vulnerable road users is increasing , as car users have been the main beneficiaries of improved vehicle safety and other road safety measures; whereas the safety of motorbike riders , cyclists and pedestrians must be urgently addressed;


### e. whereas achieving the new eu road safety targets requires increased and targeted enforcement measures at national level and effective cooperation on cross-border enforcement of penalties; ### e. whereas achieving the new eu road safety targets requires more intensive and cooperative efforts to develop strong european road safety policies with stakeholders , research and innovation support , in order to prepare policy based solutions based on solid data and impact analysis , increased and targeted enforcement measures at national level and effective cooperation on cross-border enforcement of penalties;


### 1. welcomes the fact that the eu has reaffirmed in the 2021-2030 eu road safety policy framework its long-term vision to get close to zero deaths by 2050 , known as vision zero , and its medium-term goal to reduce deaths and serious injuries by 50 % by 2030; highlights that these eu goals and targets relating to road safety should be underpinned by a coordinated , well-planned , systematic and well-financed road safety approach at eu , national and local level; ### 1. welcomes the fact that the eu has reaffirmed in the 2021-2030 eu road safety policy framework its long-term strategic goal to get close to zero deaths and zero serious injuries on european roads by 2050 , known as vision zero , and its medium-term goal to reduce deaths and serious injuries by 50 % by 2030; highlights that these eu goals and targets relating to road safety should be underpinned by a coordinated , well-planned , systematic and well-financed road safety approach at eu , national , regional and local level;


### 2. welcomes in this regard the adoption of the safe system approach at eu level , based on a performance framework and timed targets for the reduction of casualties and serious injuries; welcomes the setting up of key performance indicators (kpis) established in cooperation with member states to enable a more focused and targeted analysis of the member states’ performances and to identify shortcomings; calls on the commission to set outcome targets by 2023; underlines the importance of the ongoing cooperation between the eu and the members states in this regard and urges all members states to fully commit to this exercise and agree on a harmonised methodology for kpis that will allow member states to be compared; ### 2. welcomes in this regard the adoption of the safe system approach at eu level , based on a performance framework and timed targets for the reduction of casualties and serious injuries; welcomes the setting up of key performance indicators (kpis) established in cooperation with member states to enable a more focused and targeted analysis of the member states’ performances and to identify shortcomings; recalls that the communication “europe on the move – sustainable mobility for europe: safe , connected and clean” in 2018 confirmed the eu's long-term goal of moving to zero fatalities in road transport by 2050 and added that the same should be achieved for serious injuries; highlights that the same communication proposed new interim targets of reducing the number of road deaths by 50% between 2020 and 2030 as well as reducing the number of serious injuries by 50% in the same period , as recommended in the valletta declaration; underlines the importance of the ongoing cooperation between the eu and the members states in this regard and urges all members states to fully commit to this exercise and agree on a harmonised methodology for kpis that will allow member states to compare data; stresses the importance of promoting best national practices , in order to improve harmonisation and to bring together the existing different national approaches to road safety;


### 3. calls on all member states to earmark an adequate part of their national budget , which , coupled with eu funds , should make it possible to implement their national road safety programmes and the new 2021-2030 eu road safety policy framework; ### 3. calls on the commission to further promote the eu funding opportunities through regional and cohesion funds , the connecting europe facility and the “safer transport platform” launched by the european investment bank (eib); stresses the importance of funding and making the eligibility criteria clearer for road safety actions also through future eu instruments , such as invest eu and cef2 regulation; aiming at accelerating the delivery of road safety results; furthermore , calls on all member states to earmark an adequate part of their national budget , which , coupled with eu funds , should make it possible to implement their national road safety programmes and the new 2021-2030 eu road safety policy framework;


### 4. calls on the member states and the commission to prioritise investments with the greatest benefit in terms of road safety , including investments in maintaining existing infrastructure and in the construction of new infrastructure; welcomes , in this regard , the launch of the safer transport platform initiative and calls on all interested parties to consider its use; ### 4. calls on the member states and the commission to prioritise investments with the greatest benefit in terms of road safety , including investments in maintaining existing infrastructure and in the construction of new infrastructure; welcomes , in this regard , the launch of the safer transport platform initiative and calls on the commission and the eib to consider launching awareness-raising and information campaigns in order to ensure that all interested parties are well informed about the conditions of its use;


### 5. highlights that a proactive assessment of the eu road network will be a useful tool to assess the in-built safety of roads and to target investment; welcomes , in this regard , the risk mapping and safety rating of motorways and primary roads introduced in the recently revised eu infrastructure safety rules4 and calls on the member states to designate as many primary roads in their territory as possible to increase the road safety potential of the new directive; calls on the commission and the member states to agree as soon as possible on a methodology to carry out systematic network-wide road assessments as mandated in the revision of the above-mentioned act; calls on the commission and the member states to speed up the work on the specifications at eu level for the performance of road signs and markings in order to prepare the way for a higher level of automation in vehicles; ### 5. highlights that a proactive assessment of the eu road network will be a useful tool to assess the in-built safety of roads and to target investment; welcomes , in this regard , the risk mapping and safety rating of motorways and primary roads introduced in the recently revised eu infrastructure safety rules4 and calls on the member states to designate as many primary roads in their territory as possible to increase the road safety potential of the new directive; calls on the commission and the member states to agree as soon as possible on a methodology to carry out systematic network-wide road assessments as mandated in the revision of the above-mentioned act; highlights the importance of using infrastructure to introduce self-explaining , self-enforcing roads , specifically in dangerous zones , or zones with a prevalence of vulnerable road users for the safety of all participants in road traffic; recalls the importance of the performance of road signs and markings , including their placing , visibility and retro-reflectivity , especially for the good functioning of driver assistance systems , such as intelligent speed assistance and lane keeping assistance; calls on the commission and the member states to speed up the work on the specifications at eu level for the performance of road signs and markings in order to prepare the way for a higher level of automation in vehicles; reminds that according to the commission’s impact assessment , these new rules have the potential to save up to 3200 lives and avoid 20 700 serious injuries by 2030;


### 7. welcomes the recent revision of the general safety regulation , which will make new advanced safety features in vehicles such as intelligent speed assistance and emergency lane keeping systems mandatory in the eu as from 2022 , with the potential to save around 7 300 lives and avoid 38 900 serious injuries by 2030; calls on the commission to adopt ambitious and timely secondary legislation , to evaluate future developments and to review the regulation where appropriate in order to keep pace with technical developments; ### 7. welcomes the recent revision of the general safety regulation , which will make new advanced safety features in vehicles such as intelligent speed assistance and emergency lane keeping systems mandatory in the eu as from 2022 , with the potential to save around 7 300 lives and avoid 38 900 serious injuries by 2030; calls on the commission to adopt ambitious and timely secondary legislation , to evaluate future developments and to review the regulation where appropriate in order to keep pace with technical developments; in this regards , recalls the importance of innovation in vehicle technology , which can both help mitigate the severity of crashes and reduce the likelihood of crashes through active and passive safety features;


### 8. urges the commission , in line with the tran implementation report on the road safety aspects of the roadworthiness package , to take due account of the technical progress in vehicle safety features provided for in new general safety regulation and to include advanced safety systems in the scope of the next revision of the roadworthiness package to ensure they are checked during periodical technical inspections; ### 8. urges the commission , in line with the tran implementation report on the road safety aspects of the roadworthiness package , to take due account of the technical progress in vehicle safety features provided for in new general safety regulation and to include advanced safety systems in the scope of the next revision of the roadworthiness package to ensure they are checked during periodical technical inspections; in this regard , calls on the competent authorities to ensure additional trainings , upskilling and re-skilling of the related inspectors conducting the ptis.


### 9. calls on the commission to propose a new harmonised regulatory framework for automated cars in order to ensure , by means of comprehensive tests , including real driving conditions , that automated cars will operate in an absolutely safe manner for their drivers and other road users , in particular concerning their interaction with conventional vehicles and vulnerable road users; ### 9. calls on the commission to propose a new harmonised regulatory framework for automated cars in order to ensure , by means of comprehensive tests , including real driving conditions , that automated cars will operate in an absolutely safe manner for their drivers and other road users , in particular concerning their interaction with conventional vehicles and vulnerable road users; in this regard , highlights the importance of ensuring training and qualification to be brought up to date and equip drivers with the necessary skills and knowledge to drive automated vehicles as they emerge onto the market in the coming years;


### 11. notes that according to a commission study , alcohol is estimated to be involved in around 25 % of all road fatalities , while drugs are involved in 15 % of road fatalities5 ; notes that the eu recommendation on permitted blood alcohol content dates from 2001; calls the commission to include a zero-tolerance drink-driving limit in its recommendations , and to introduce an eu recommendation for zero tolerance regarding illicit psychoactive drugs and standards on roadside drug-driving enforcement; calls on the commission to also include in the revised recommendations guidance on the fitting of alcohol interlock devices , with a special focus on repeat offenders , high-level first-time offenders and all professional drivers; ### 11. notes that safe road use ( speed , driving without alcohol and drugs , undistracted driving , safety belt and child restraint use , helmet use) is the third pillar for the prevention and mitigation of fatalities and serious injuries in collisions , showing that the human factor in road safety plays a crucial role; notes that according to a commission study , alcohol is estimated to be involved in around 25 % of all road fatalities , while drugs are involved in 15 % of road fatalities5 ; notes that the eu recommendation on permitted blood alcohol content dates from 2001; calls the commission to include a zero-tolerance drink-driving limit in its recommendations , and to introduce an eu recommendation for zero tolerance regarding psychoactive drugs and standards on roadside drug-driving enforcement; calls on the commission to also include in the revised recommendations guidance on the fitting of alcohol interlock devices , with a special focus on repeat offenders , high-level first-time offenders and all professional drivers; in this regards , calls on the commission to consider the feasibility and the added value of elaborating a harmonised system of mutual recognition of driving disqualifications and of penalty points between member states , where it exists.


### 12. notes that speeding is a key factor in around 30 % of fatal road crashes and an aggravating factor in most crashes; calls on the commission to come up with a recommendation to apply safe speed limits in line with the safe system approach for all road types , such as maximum speeds of 30km/h in residential areas and areas where there are high numbers of cyclists and pedestrians , or where there could be potential to increase cycling and walking levels , and to assess the feasibility of limiting the maximum top speed of all new vehicles as an effective way of reducing road casualties , as well as air pollution and carbon dioxide emissions; ### 12. notes that speeding is a key factor in around 30 % of fatal road crashes and an aggravating factor in most crashes; calls on the commission to come up with a recommendation to apply safe speed limits in line with the safe system approach for all road types , such as maximum speeds of 30km/h in residential areas and areas where there are high numbers of cyclists and pedestrians , or where there could be potential to increase cycling and walking levels;


### 14. recalls that the driving licence directive established a harmonised eu licence model and introduced minimum requirements for obtaining licences; notes that the directive will need to be kept up-to-date regarding new technological developments in vehicle and infrastructure technology and vehicle automation; calls on the commission to consider introducing a graduated licencing system that encourages novice drivers to gain more experience while limiting certain high-risk activities such as driving at night and with passengers; notes with concern that cases of irregular issuing of driving licences have been reported in several member states and calls on the commission to monitor this issue; ### 14. recalls that the driving licence directive established a harmonised eu licence model and introduced minimum requirements for obtaining licences; notes that the directive will need to be kept up-to-date regarding new technological developments in vehicle and infrastructure technology and vehicle automation; calls on the commission to consider introducing a graduated licencing system that encourages novice drivers to gain more experience while limiting certain high-risk activities such as driving at night and with passengers , while taking into account the mobility needs of people living in areas with long distances and limited access to public transport; notes that driver licencing , targeted education and awareness raising , supported by strong and sustained compliance and enforcement regimes , have an important role to play in giving road users the capability and willingness to use roads and vehicles safely;


### 15. notes that the covid-19 pandemic has led to the expansion of the home delivery sector and specifically the use of vans , powered two-wheelers and bicycles; calls on the commission to consider introducing a requirement for van drivers to undergo professional driver training and proposing a regulation on working hours and rest periods for van drivers; calls on the commission to assess the introduction of a recommendation on the safety of delivery personnel , including requirements for employers and companies to ensure the provision and use of safety equipment and safe vehicles; ### 15. notes that the covid-19 pandemic has led to the expansion of the home delivery sector , boosting the emergence of new types of platform work and business models; calls on the commission to assess the introduction of a recommendation on the safety of delivery personnel , including requirements for employers and companies to ensure the provision and use of safety equipment and safe vehicles;


### 16. highlights the importance of fast and effective post-crash care in significantly reducing the consequences of injury; calls on the member states , in this context , to establish closer collaboration between their road safety authorities and the health sector , to make it mandatory to build emergency lanes and to enforce their correct use to speed up rescue operations; calls on the commission to consider making first aid training compulsory in the future revision of the driving licence directive; ### 16. highlights the importance of fast and effective post-crash care in significantly reducing the consequences of injury; calls on the member states , in this context , to establish closer collaboration between their road safety authorities and the health sector , to make it mandatory to build emergency lanes and to enforce their correct use to speed up rescue operations; calls further the commission and the member states to provide for sufficient financing for efficient emergency infrastructure , including air medical services; calls on the commission to make first aid training compulsory in the future revision of the driving licence directive; recalls the importance of effective follow-up victim support;


### 17. stresses that poor enforcement of road traffic rules undermines efforts to achieve vision zero; encourages the member states to set annual targets for enforcement and compliance in their road safety plans and to ensure their adequate funding; underlines that only well-explained and well-publicised consistent enforcement activities can have a long-lasting effect on driving behaviour; ### 17. stresses that poor enforcement of road traffic rules undermines efforts to achieve vision zero; encourages the member states to set annual targets for enforcement and compliance in their road safety plans and to ensure their adequate funding; underlines that only well-explained , well-publicised consistent enforcement activities and education by enforcement can have a long-lasting effect on driving behaviour;


### 20. calls on the commission , in view of the upcoming revision of the urban mobility package , to promote synergies between safety and sustainability measures in urban areas; calls , in this regard , for the reprioritisation of transport infrastructure in dense urban areas away from individual motorised transport towards public transport and sustainable , safer and healthier transport modes such as walking and cycling; ### 20. calls on the commission , in view of the upcoming revision of the urban mobility package , to promote synergies between safety and sustainability measures in urban areas; calls , in this regard , for the reprioritisation of transport infrastructure in urban areas away from individual motorised transport towards sustainable , safer and healthier transport modes such as public transport , walking and cycling , taking into consideration the special needs of vulnerable road users , such as children , persons with disabilities and elderly persons; encourages further investments and co-funding by eu funding instruments for parking and other mobility connectivity zones in the entry of urban areas , providing for easy access to different modes of public transport , in view of reducing urban congestion and co2 emissions;


### 22. is of the view that in order to properly implement the next steps in the eu road safety policy under the overarching sustainable and smart mobility strategy , some new capacities are needed in the field of road safety , in particular with respect to the coordination , monitoring and evaluation functions and technical support for the overall strategy; calls on the commission in this regard to explore options to further support safe road transport under an existing agency or another body; ### 22. is of the view that in order to properly implement the next steps in the eu road safety policy under the overarching sustainable and smart mobility strategy , some new capacities are needed in the field of road safety , in particular with respect to the coordination , monitoring and evaluation functions and technical support for the overall strategy; calls on the commission in this regard to explore options to further support safe road transport under an existing agency or to consider establishing a european road safety agency;


### 2. notes that the agency’s final annual budget for 2020 was eur 30.76 million (eur 27.56 million from eu subsidy , eur 1.96 million from fees and charges) and that the implementation rate for current year appropriations was 99 ,98 % in commitments; ### 2. notes that the agency’s final annual budget for 2020 was eur 30.76 million (eur 27.56 million from eu subsidy , eur 1.96 million from fees and charges) and that the implementation rate for current year appropriations was 99 ,98 % in commitments; notes that the pandemic freed up budget appropriations because a number of scheduled missions were cancelled;


### 6. welcomes that , following a successful start in 2019 , the agency has continued to perform its role of eu authority responsible for issuing authorisations for placing railway vehicles on the market , single safety certificates for railway undertakings and ertms trackside approvals , as stated in the legal framework of the 4th railway package; ### 6. welcomes that , following a successful start in 2019 , the agency has continued to perform its role of eu authority responsible for issuing authorisations for placing railway vehicles on the market , single safety certificates for railway undertakings and ertms trackside approvals , as stated in the legal framework of the 4th railway package; stresses that , as the deadline for the transposition of the technical pillar of the 4th railway package expired in october 2020 , this was the first time that the agency acted as an authority for all 27 member states;


### 9. notes the gender distribution within the agency’s senior management , with 7 out of 8 (87 ,50 %) being men; notes the gender distribution within the agency’s management board , with 44 out of 61 (72 ,13 %) being men; further notes the gender distribution within the agency’s overall staff , with 109 out of 174 (62 ,64 %) being men; ### 9. is concerned by the total lack of gender balance within the agency’s senior management , with 7 out of 8 (87 ,50 %) being men; notes the gender distribution within the agency’s management board , with 44 out of 61 (72 ,13 %) being men; further notes the gender distribution within the agency’s overall staff , with 109 out of 174 (62 ,64 %) being men; invites the agency to increase its effort to achieve a better gender balance at all management levels;


### a. whereas the eu transport sector is essential for the union’s economic , social and environmental development , for its sustainability and for ensuring the territorial accessibility and connectivity of all regions of the eu , with particular attention for peripheral , rural , insular and outermost regions and other disadvantaged geographical areas; ### a. whereas the eu transport sector is essential for the union’s competitiveness , economic , social and environmental development , for its sustainability and for ensuring the territorial accessibility and connectivity of all regions of the eu , with particular attention for peripheral , rural , insular and outermost regions and other disadvantaged geographical areas;


### back on track: budget 2022 for recovery from the covid-19 crisis ### back on track: budget 2022 for recovery from the covid-19 crisis and priorities to tackle the economic and social consequences of the pandemic and ensure just transition and social resilience


### 1. believes that , given the particular uncertainty about the economic outlook , which is not expected to recover to its pre-pandemic level in 2022 , and the imperative need for a quick recovery from the economic and social damage caused by the covid-19 pandemic , the 2022 union budget should play an even more pivotal role in ensuring a positive and tangible impact on citizens’ lives and contributing to sustaining the european economy , leveraging investments and supporting job creation throughout the union , as well as facilitating the reduction of economic , social , territorial and generational disparities; ### 1. believes that , given the particular uncertainty about the economic outlook expectation that none of the member states is to return in 2022 to the growth path projected before the crisis1a , and the imperative need for a quick recovery from the economic and social damage caused by the covid-19 pandemic , the 2022 union budget should play an even more pivotal role in ensuring a positive and tangible impact on citizens’ lives and contributing to boosting european economy , leveraging sustainable investments and supporting job creation throughout the union , as well as facilitating the reduction of economic , social , territorial and generational disparities;


### 1. believes that , given the particular uncertainty about the economic outlook , which is not expected to recover to its pre-pandemic level in 2022 , and the imperative need for a quick recovery from the economic and social damage caused by the covid-19 pandemic , the 2022 union budget should play an even more pivotal role in ensuring a positive and tangible impact on citizens’ lives and contributing to sustaining the european economy , leveraging investments and supporting job creation throughout the union , as well as facilitating the reduction of economic , social , territorial and generational disparities; ### 1. believes that , given the particular uncertainty about the economic outlook , which is not expected to recover to its pre-pandemic level in 2022 , and the imperative need for a quick recovery from the economic and social damage caused by the covid-19 pandemic , the 2022 union budget should play an even more pivotal role in ensuring a positive and tangible impact on citizens’ lives and contributing to sustaining the european economy , leveraging sustainable investments and supporting job creation and lifelong learning throughout the union , as well as facilitating the reduction of economic , social , digital territorial and generational disparities;


### 1. believes that , given the particular uncertainty about the economic outlook , which is not expected to recover to its pre-pandemic level in 2022 , and the imperative need for a quick recovery from the economic and social damage caused by the covid-19 pandemic , the 2022 union budget should play an even more pivotal role in ensuring a positive and tangible impact on citizens’ lives and contributing to sustaining the european economy , leveraging investments and supporting job creation throughout the union , as well as facilitating the reduction of economic , social , territorial and generational disparities; ### 1. believes that 2022 will be characterised by challenges , resulting from the european green deal and the digital transition , highly accelerated by the covid-19 crisis and especially affecting the labour market , by the particular uncertainty about the economic outlook , which is not expected to recover to its pre-pandemic level in 2022 , and the imperative need for a quick recovery from the economic and social damage caused by the covid-19 pandemic as well as by the need to build society resilient to possible future crises;


### 1. believes that , given the particular uncertainty about the economic outlook , which is not expected to recover to its pre-pandemic level in 2022 , and the imperative need for a quick recovery from the economic and social damage caused by the covid-19 pandemic , the 2022 union budget should play an even more pivotal role in ensuring a positive and tangible impact on citizens’ lives and contributing to sustaining the european economy , leveraging investments and supporting job creation throughout the union , as well as facilitating the reduction of economic , social , territorial and generational disparities; ### 1. believes that , given the particular uncertainty about the economic outlook , which is not expected to recover to its pre-pandemic level in 2022 , and the imperative need for a quick , united and inclusive recovery from the economic and social damage caused by the covid-19 pandemic , the 2022 union budget should play an even more pivotal role in ensuring a positive and tangible impact on citizens’ lives and contributing to sustaining a resilient european economy , leveraging investments and supporting job creation throughout the union , as well as facilitating the reduction of economic , social , territorial and generational disparities;


### 1. highlights the important role that both agriculture and rural development play in achieving the union’s objectives in the fields of food security , sustainable economic growth , social inclusion , territorial and environmental balance , animal welfare and combating climate change; ### 1. highlights the important role that both agriculture and rural development play in achieving the union’s objectives in the fields of food security , sustainable economic growth , social inclusion , territorial and environmental balance , animal welfare and combating climate change , fully in line with the european green deal , the eu biodiversity strategy for 2030 and farm to fork strategy;


### 2. intends , therefore , to set up a forward-looking budget that will be instrumental in the recovery process , and will enable the union to boost investments and tackle unemployment , foster the digital and green transitions , improve the life prospects of the young generation and address demographic challenges , and ensure a safe and prosperous environment for eu citizens; considers these priorities to be essential in order to uphold the recovery and build up the foundations for a more resilient union; ### 2. stresses the need , therefore , to establish an ambitious and forward-looking sustainable budget for 2022 that will be instrumental in the recovery and resilience building process and will focus on prioritising and mitigating the social , economic and employment effects of the covid-19 crisis to ensure that all workers in europe are protected and no one is left behind , and to support companies' and member states' recovery; considers that the budget for 2022 should enable the union to boost investments and tackle unemployment , especially youth unemployment , and labour market transformation , fostering the digital and green transitions , improving the life prospects of the young generation and addressing demographic challenges , fighting poverty and social exclusion , in particular child poverty , and ensuring decent working conditions and their effective enforcement , long-term security , adequate social protection , opportunities for all without discrimination , and a working environment adjusted to people with disabilities , and fostering a safe and prosperous environment for eu citizens; considers these priorities to be essential in order to uphold the recovery and build up the foundations for a more resilient union;


### 2. intends , therefore , to set up a forward-looking budget that will be instrumental in the recovery process , and will enable the union to boost investments and tackle unemployment , foster the digital and green transitions , improve the life prospects of the young generation and address demographic challenges , and ensure a safe and prosperous environment for eu citizens; considers these priorities to be essential in order to uphold the recovery and build up the foundations for a more resilient union; ### 2. intends , therefore , to set up a forward-looking budget that will be instrumental in the recovery process , and will enable the union to boost investments and tackle unemployment particularly among women and young people , fight against inequalities , foster the digital and green transitions , increase the resilience and preparedness of the european health systems , improve the life prospects of the young generation and address demographic challenges , and ensure a safe and prosperous environment for eu citizens while protecting the financial interests of the union and ensuring the respect for fundamental rights and respect of the rule of law; considers that these priorities to be essential in order to uphold the recovery and build up the foundations for a more resilient union;


### 2. intends , therefore , to set up a forward-looking budget that will be instrumental in the recovery process , and will enable the union to boost investments and tackle unemployment , foster the digital and green transitions , improve the life prospects of the young generation and address demographic challenges , and ensure a safe and prosperous environment for eu citizens; considers these priorities to be essential in order to uphold the recovery and build up the foundations for a more resilient union; ### 2. intends , therefore , to set up a forward-looking budget that will be instrumental in the recovery process , and will enable the union to boost investments and tackle unemployment , foster the digital and green transitions , improve the life prospects of the young generation and address demographic challenges , and ensure safe and healthy environment and wellbeing of eu citizens; considers these priorities to be essential in order to uphold the recovery and build up the foundations for a more resilient union in line with the european green deal and paris agreement;


### 2. intends , therefore , to set up a forward-looking budget that will be instrumental in the recovery process , and will enable the union to boost investments and tackle unemployment , foster the digital and green transitions , improve the life prospects of the young generation and address demographic challenges , and ensure a safe and prosperous environment for eu citizens; considers these priorities to be essential in order to uphold the recovery and build up the foundations for a more resilient union; ### 2. intends , therefore , to set up a forward-looking budget that will be instrumental in the recovery process , and will enable the union to boost sustainable investments and tackle unemployment , inequalities and impoverishment and foster the digital and green transitions , improve the life prospects of the young generation and address demographic challenges , and ensure a safe and prosperous environment for eu citizens; considers these priorities to be essential in order to uphold the recovery and build up the foundations for a more resilient union;


### 2. intends , therefore , to set up a forward-looking budget that will be instrumental in the recovery process , and will enable the union to boost investments and tackle unemployment , foster the digital and green transitions , improve the life prospects of the young generation and address demographic challenges , and ensure a safe and prosperous environment for eu citizens; considers these priorities to be essential in order to uphold the recovery and build up the foundations for a more resilient union; ### 2. intends , therefore , to set up a forward-looking budget that will be instrumental in the recovery process , and will enable the union to boost investments and tackle unemployment , foster the digital and green transitions , improve the life prospects of the young generation and address demographic challenges , and ensure a safe and prosperous environment for eu citizens , as well restore biodiversity; considers these priorities to be essential in order to uphold the recovery and build up the foundations for a more resilient union;


### 2. is equally alarmed about the impact on the cultural and creative sectors; urges the commission to take all necessary measures to support the beneficiaries of union programmes in these fields; ### 2. is equally alarmed about the disproportionately strong impact of the pandemic on the cultural and creative sectors and industries; urges the commission to take all necessary measures to support the beneficiaries of union programmes in these fields , as well as to increase the number of financed projects;


### 2. welcomes the additional €4bn (in 2018 prices) for horizon europe from competition fines , margins and decommitments , as agreed in the compromise on the mff , as well as the additional €5bn (in 2018 prices) from the next generation eu (ngeu); stresses that these additional commitments stemming from competition fines , margins and decommitments should be used to maintain the principle of budgetary continuity by stabilising variation in annual commitments , especially with regards to the increase of commitments from ngeu in the first years; considers it essential for the itre committee to be closely involved in the annual decisions on the structure of the horizon europe budget in order to ensure an optimal impact for europe’s researchers; ### 2. highlights the necessity to support research and innovation in the light of the current pandemic , therefore welcomes the additional €4bn (in 2018 prices) for horizon europe from competition fines , margins and decommitments , as agreed in the compromise on the mff , as well as the additional €5bn (in 2018 prices) from the next generation eu (ngeu); strongly supports the additional budget allocated to the european research council from fines and margins (€1 ,142 bn in 2018 prices); stresses that these additional commitments stemming from competition fines , margins and decommitments should be used to maintain the principle of budgetary continuity by stabilising variation in annual commitments , especially with regards to the increase of commitments from ngeu in the first years; considers it essential for the itre committee to be closely involved in the annual decisions on the structure of the horizon europe budget in order to ensure an optimal impact for europe’s researchers , in respect of budg remit;


### a vibrant economy to boost investments and tackle unemployment ### a vibrant economy to boost investments and tackle unemployment and achieve full social , economic and territorial cohesion


### 3. recalls that smes remain the backbone of the european economy and continue to play a vital role in job and growth creation; underlines the importance of an adequately funded single market programme to boost competitiveness of small business with the development of digital and entrepreneurial skills; underscores , furthermore , the potential of the investeu programme in leveraging sustainable , innovative and social investments , but also in providing capital support to small and medium-sized enterprises (smes) negatively affected by the crisis; ### 3. recalls that smes remain the backbone of the european economy and continue to play a vital role in job and growth creation; calls for as smes will likely be the most affected companies by the crisis and will suffer from the consequences in the next years , their financial support and financing opportunities for smes to be increased through different eu programmes; underlines the importance of an adequately funded single market programme to boost competitiveness of small business with the development of digital and entrepreneurial skills; points out that smes are an essential part of the union economy and play a crucial role in delivering excellent quality investment and job creation in all member states; sees the urgent need to create an sme-friendly business environment , as well as to support sme clusters and networks; underlines in this context that , an adequate funding of the cosme programme is necessary in order to further boost the programme’s potential in promoting entrepreneurship , including women’s entrepreneurship , and to improve the competitiveness and access to markets of union enterprises , and calls for emphasis to be placed on the digital transformation of smes; underscores , furthermore , the potential of the investeu programme in leveraging sustainable , innovative and social investments , but also in providing capital support to small and medium-sized enterprises (smes) negatively affected by the crisis;


### 3. recalls that smes remain the backbone of the european economy and continue to play a vital role in job and growth creation; underlines the importance of an adequately funded single market programme to boost competitiveness of small business with the development of digital and entrepreneurial skills; underscores , furthermore , the potential of the investeu programme in leveraging sustainable , innovative and social investments , but also in providing capital support to small and medium-sized enterprises (smes) negatively affected by the crisis; ### 3. recalls that small and medium-sized enterprises (smes) remain the backbone of the european economy and labour market and will continue to play a vital role in job and growth creation; underlines the importance of an adequately funded single market programme to boost competitiveness of small business with the development of digital and entrepreneurial skills; underscores , furthermore , the potential of the investeu programme in leveraging sustainable , innovative and social investments , but also in providing capital support and investment in human capital to smes negatively affected by the crisis; stresses , in particular , the crucial role of , and need to support , social economy enterprises which carryout important social functions and often provide employment to vulnerable and excluded groups;


### 3. recalls that smes remain the backbone of the european economy and continue to play a vital role in job and growth creation; underlines the importance of an adequately funded single market programme to boost competitiveness of small business with the development of digital and entrepreneurial skills; underscores , furthermore , the potential of the investeu programme in leveraging sustainable , innovative and social investments , but also in providing capital support to small and medium-sized enterprises (smes) negatively affected by the crisis; ### 3. recalls that smes , including start-ups , remain the backbone of the european economy and continue to play a vital role in job and growth creation; underlines the importance of an adequately funded single market programme to boost competitiveness of small business with the development of digital and entrepreneurial skills and simplification of administrative burdens; underscores , furthermore , the potential of the investeu programme in leveraging sustainable , innovative and social investments , but also in providing capital support to small and medium-sized enterprises (smes) negatively affected by the crisis;


### 3. urges the member states to dedicate at least 2 % of the overall budget of national recovery and resilience plans to the cultural and creative sectors , and 10 % to investments in quality and inclusive education; ### 3. urges the member states to dedicate at least 2 % of the overall budget of national recovery and resilience plans to the cultural and creative sectors and industries , and 10 % to investments in quality and inclusive education;


### 3. calls for the full use of article 15(3) of the financial regulation , to allocate all available decommitments from former eu research framework programmes to horizon europe , on top of the additional commitments mentioned in point 2; ### 3. calls for the use of article 15(3) of the financial regulation , to allocate available decommitments from former eu research framework programmes to horizon europe , on top of the additional commitments mentioned in point 2 , keeping in mind the future needs that will arise after 2023 and the end of nextgenerationeu commitments;


### 4. emphasises the continued need to invest in research and innovation , in particular for the eu to be a driving force in the green and digital transitions; underlines , in that respect , the particular merits of horizon europe , and considers essential to provide smes with adequate support in research and innovation so that they can actively take part in these immense challenges; ### 4. emphasises the continued need to invest in research and innovation , in particular for the eu to be a driving force in the green and digital transitions; underlines , in that respect , the particular merits of horizon europe , and considers essential to provide smes with adequate support in research and innovation so that they can actively take part in these immense challenges , underlines the importance of fostering collaboration between the academia and industry; considers that unused research resources , in particular those from the previous mff , should be re-invested in their entirety and calls on the commission make full use of article 15(3) of the financial regulation in 2022;


### 4. emphasises the continued need to invest in research and innovation , in particular for the eu to be a driving force in the green and digital transitions; underlines , in that respect , the particular merits of horizon europe , and considers essential to provide smes with adequate support in research and innovation so that they can actively take part in these immense challenges; ### 4. emphasises the continued need to invest in research and innovation , in particular for the eu to be a driving force in the green and digital transitions; underlines , in that respect , the particular merits of horizon europe , and specially the european research council (erc) , and considers essential to provide smes with adequate support in research and innovation so that they can actively take part in these immense challenges; considers that unused research resources , in particular those from the previous mff , should be re-invested in their entirety and calls on the commission make full use of article 15(3) of the financial regulation in 2022;


### 4. emphasises the continued need to invest in research and innovation , in particular for the eu to be a driving force in the green and digital transitions; underlines , in that respect , the particular merits of horizon europe , and considers essential to provide smes with adequate support in research and innovation so that they can actively take part in these immense challenges; ### 4. emphasises the continued need to invest in research and innovation , in particular for the eu to be a driving force in the green and digital transitions; underlines , in that respect , the particular merits of horizon europe , and considers essential to provide smes with adequate support in research and innovation so that they can actively take part in these immense challenges; reminds that horizon europe is a flagship programme of the european union and therefore needs to be strengthened in the upcoming year; underlines that the covid19 pandemic has shown the importance of european research on pharmaceutical products and vaccines.


### 4. emphasises the continued need to invest in research and innovation , in particular for the eu to be a driving force in the green and digital transitions; underlines , in that respect , the particular merits of horizon europe , and considers essential to provide smes with adequate support in research and innovation so that they can actively take part in these immense challenges; ### 4. emphasises the continued need to invest in research and innovation , in particular for the eu to be a driving force in the green and digital transitions; underlines , in that respect , the particular merits of horizon europe , and considers essential to provide smes with adequate support in research and innovation so that they can actively take part in these immense challenges; underlines that in order to strengthen eu’s resilience and avoid excessive emergency spending , major investment should be dedicated to medical scientific research , virus monitoring activities , pharmacovigilance , hospital infrastructure , equipment and staff;


### 4. emphasises the continued need to invest in research and innovation , in particular for the eu to be a driving force in the green and digital transitions; underlines , in that respect , the particular merits of horizon europe , and considers essential to provide smes with adequate support in research and innovation so that they can actively take part in these immense challenges; ### 4. emphasises the continued need to invest in education , research and innovation , in particular for the eu to be a driving force in the green and digital transitions; underlines , in that respect , the particular merits of horizon europe , and considers essential to provide smes with adequate support in education , including vocational education and training (vet) , research and innovation so that they can actively take part in these immense challenges;


### 4. emphasises the continued need to invest in research and innovation , in particular for the eu to be a driving force in the green and digital transitions; underlines , in that respect , the particular merits of horizon europe , and considers essential to provide smes with adequate support in research and innovation so that they can actively take part in these immense challenges; ### 4. emphasises the continued need to invest in research , development and innovation , in particular for the eu to be a driving force in the green and digital transitions; underlines , in that respect , the particular merits of horizon europe , and considers essential to provide smes , including start-ups , with adequate support in research , development and innovation so that they can actively take part in these immense challenges;


### 4. is pleased that parliament secured substantial increases to the envelopes of the erasmus+ , creative europe and rights and values programmes from 2022 to 2027 , to be derived from fines; ### 4. is pleased that parliament secured substantial increases to the envelopes of the erasmus+ , creative europe and rights and values programmes from 2022 to 2027 , to be mostly derived from fines; asks the commission to provide greater clarity on the timing of the allocation of these fines; recalls in this respect the need for budgetary linearity , expressed by national authorities and agencies;


### 4. underlines the importance to ensure sufficient funding to contribute to the twin transition towards climate-neutrality by 2050 and in order to shape europe’s digital decade; notes in this regards the key role of funds for horizon europe , connecting europe facility (cef) , in particular cef- energy and cef digital , the space programme , the digital europe programme as well as the just transition fund which should be combined with ngeu funding where possible; ### 4. underlines the importance to ensure sufficient funding to contribute to the twin transition towards climate-neutrality by 2050 and in order to shape europe’s digital decade; notes in this regards the key role of funds for horizon europe , connecting europe facility (cef) , in particular cef- energy and cef digital , the space programme , the digital europe programme as well as the just transition fund which should be consistent with ngeu funding where possible;


### 5. strongly supports regional policy as the prime investment instrument of the eu budget that enables economic , social and territorial cohesion , and one of the cornerstones of the recovery; highlights its role in reaching eu strategic objectives such as employment , green economy and innovation , and as a driving force of a more inclusive and sustainable union; ### 5. strongly supports the european structural and investment funds as the prime funding instrument of the eu budget that enables economic , social and territorial cohesion , and one of the cornerstones of the recovery; highlights their role in reaching eu strategic objectives such as employment , the fight against poverty , climate neutral economy , and innovation , and as a driving force of a more inclusive and sustainable union; underlines the new challenges regional policy is facing , and especially the just transition and the need to sustain and develop the industrial potential and human capital of the regions affected; highlights that regional policy must play a key role in boosting equal job opportunities for all and in supporting the re-skilling of workers by providing adequate lifelong training; highlights the importance of gender equality for the implementation of the funds as it is a necessary condition for the achievement of the eu objectives of growth , employment and social cohesion;


### 5. strongly supports regional policy as the prime investment instrument of the eu budget that enables economic , social and territorial cohesion , and one of the cornerstones of the recovery; highlights its role in reaching eu strategic objectives such as employment , green economy and innovation , and as a driving force of a more inclusive and sustainable union; ### 5. strongly supports regional policy as the prime investment instrument of the eu budget that enables economic , social and territorial cohesion , and one of the cornerstones of the recovery; highlights its role in reaching eu strategic objectives such as employment , green economy and innovation , and as a driving force of a more inclusive and sustainable union; points to the important role of the just transition fund in supporting regions in their transition to a low-carbon economy while limiting the socio-economic consequences for the most vulnerable;


### 5. strongly supports regional policy as the prime investment instrument of the eu budget that enables economic , social and territorial cohesion , and one of the cornerstones of the recovery; highlights its role in reaching eu strategic objectives such as employment , green economy and innovation , and as a driving force of a more inclusive and sustainable union; ### 5. strongly supports regional policy as the prime investment instrument of the eu budget that enables economic , social and territorial cohesion , and one of the cornerstones of the recovery; highlights its role in reaching eu strategic objectives such as employment , green and circular economy and innovation , and as a driving force of a more inclusive and sustainable union;


### 5. calls for sufficient funding and staffing for eu agencies in particular for acer and the new space programme agency; ### 5. calls for sufficient funding and staffing for eu agencies in particular for acer , berec , enisa and the new space programme agency;


### 6. reaffirms the importance and potential of the eu4health programme , which under the new multiannual financial framework (mff) became the largest health programme to ever be funded by the eu budget; expects that synergies will be strengthened between all eu programmes that provide additional investments in the health sector like the esf+ , the erdf , horizon europe and digital europe; ### 6. reaffirms the importance and potential of the eu4health programme , which under the new multiannual financial framework (mff) became the largest health programme to ever be funded by the eu budget; expects that synergies will be strengthened between all eu programmes that provide additional investments in the health sector like the esf+ , the erdf , horizon europe and digital europe; points out that the union , which has competence to take supportive action , must work towards improving coordination and cooperation between member states , and cooperation between the public and private sectors , with a view to greater effectiveness and enhanced security for citizens in times of crisis; stresses that the eu must restore its health sovereignty by securing supplies of both medicines and medical devices; welcomes the setting up of the commission-parliament contact group on vaccines , which will help develop a vaccine strategy and foster access to safe and effective vaccines for all citizens;


### 6. reaffirms the importance and potential of the eu4health programme , which under the new multiannual financial framework (mff) became the largest health programme to ever be funded by the eu budget; expects that synergies will be strengthened between all eu programmes that provide additional investments in the health sector like the esf+ , the erdf , horizon europe and digital europe; ### 6. reaffirms the importance and potential of the eu4health programme , which under the new multiannual financial framework (mff) became the largest health programme to ever be funded by the eu budget; calls for the use of union funds to ensure access to health for all by promoting the establishment of medical practitioners and the maintenance of hospitals in rural areas; strongly encourages setting common standards to protect health of workers and set balanced solutions to ensure access to vaccine starting from most exposed groups; expects that synergies will be strengthened between all eu programmes that provide additional investments in the health sector like the esf+ , the erdf , horizon europe and digital europe;


### 6. reaffirms the importance and potential of the eu4health programme , which under the new multiannual financial framework (mff) became the largest health programme to ever be funded by the eu budget; expects that synergies will be strengthened between all eu programmes that provide additional investments in the health sector like the esf+ , the erdf , horizon europe and digital europe; ### 6. reaffirms the importance and potential of the eu4health programme , which under the new multiannual financial framework (mff) became the largest health programme to ever be funded by the eu budget; expects that synergies will be strengthened between all eu programmes that provide additional investments in the health sector like the esf+ , the erdf , horizon europe and digital europe; stresses the need to strengthen the european health authorities , especially ecdc and ema , in order to guarantee a coordinated approach among member states for future cross-border health crises;


### meeting the challenge of digital and green transitions ### meeting the challenge of digital and green transitions and social justice


### 7. stresses the urgency , heightened by the covid-19 crisis , to close the digital divide and ramp up europe’s digital transformation; points out to the importance of synergies between eu programmes to create successful conditions to accelerate the market uptake of breakthrough technologies and innovations; considers that the digital europe programme is essential in improving europe’s competitiveness in the global digital economy and achieving technological sovereignty; expects that this programme will boost investments in eu high-performance computing , artificial intelligence , cybersecurity , as well as the promotion of advanced digital skills across the economy and society; ### 7. recalls that the transition to a digital and climate-neutral economy should be based on social justice , increased wellbeing , social progress , security , prosperity , equality and inclusion and should deliver for decent working conditions and fully respect labour rights; highlight that it will require investments to adapt industrial production facilities and to improve related infrastructures , connectivity , network security , and the future organisation of work , as well as investments in new ways of delivering social and organisational support to workers , such as improving the working conditions of teleworkers and introducing a ‘right to disconnect’; stresses the urgency , heightened by the covid-19 crisis , to close the digital divide and ramp up europe’s digital transformation; highlights , moreover , the need to ensure that digital investments and the digital transition are inclusive and leave no one behind , particularly as regards disadvantaged groups and regions; in this context stresses the importance of ensuring widespread access for all , including in remote and rural areas , to the internet and to digital tools as well as to digital education and training , particularly for persons with disabilities and the elderly;


### 7. stresses the urgency , heightened by the covid-19 crisis , to close the digital divide and ramp up europe’s digital transformation; points out to the importance of synergies between eu programmes to create successful conditions to accelerate the market uptake of breakthrough technologies and innovations; considers that the digital europe programme is essential in improving europe’s competitiveness in the global digital economy and achieving technological sovereignty; expects that this programme will boost investments in eu high-performance computing , artificial intelligence , cybersecurity , as well as the promotion of advanced digital skills across the economy and society; ### 7. stresses the urgency , heightened by the covid-19 crisis , to close the digital divide , both with regard to the most vulnerable populations and the elderly and ramp up europe’s digital transformation; while taking into account the impact of digitalisation on labour market policy , expects digitalisation to lead to economic participation and jobs across all regions; points out to the importance of synergies between eu programmes to create successful conditions to accelerate the market uptake of breakthrough technologies and innovations; considers that the digital europe programme is essential in improving europe’s competitiveness in the global digital economy and achieving technological sovereignty; expects that this programme will boost investments in eu high-performance computing , an ethical artificial intelligence , cybersecurity , as well as the promotion of advanced digital skills across the economy , public administration and society;


### 7. stresses the urgency , heightened by the covid-19 crisis , to close the digital divide and ramp up europe’s digital transformation; points out to the importance of synergies between eu programmes to create successful conditions to accelerate the market uptake of breakthrough technologies and innovations; considers that the digital europe programme is essential in improving europe’s competitiveness in the global digital economy and achieving technological sovereignty; expects that this programme will boost investments in eu high-performance computing , artificial intelligence , cybersecurity , as well as the promotion of advanced digital skills across the economy and society; ### 7. stresses the urgency , heightened by the covid-19 crisis , to close the digital divide by fostering inclusive learning and ramp up europe’s digital transformation; points out that inclusion is one of the guiding principles of the digital education action plan (2021-2027); points out to the importance of synergies between eu programmes to create successful conditions to accelerate the market uptake of breakthrough technologies and innovations; considers that the digital europe programme is essential in improving europe’s competitiveness in the global digital economy and achieving technological sovereignty; expects that this programme will boost investments in eu high-performance computing , artificial intelligence , cybersecurity , as well as the promotion of advanced digital skills across the economy and society;


### 7. stresses the urgency , heightened by the covid-19 crisis , to close the digital divide and ramp up europe’s digital transformation; points out to the importance of synergies between eu programmes to create successful conditions to accelerate the market uptake of breakthrough technologies and innovations; considers that the digital europe programme is essential in improving europe’s competitiveness in the global digital economy and achieving technological sovereignty; expects that this programme will boost investments in eu high-performance computing , artificial intelligence , cybersecurity , as well as the promotion of advanced digital skills across the economy and society; ### 7. stresses the urgency , heightened by the covid-19 crisis , to close the digital divide and ramp up europe’s digital transformation; points out to the importance of synergies between eu programmes to create successful conditions to accelerate the market uptake of breakthrough technologies and innovations; stresses the necessity to use all possible eu programmes to make europe fit for the digital age and enable the european economy and public sector to be on the forefront of digital innovation; considers that the digital europe programme is essential in improving europe’s competitiveness in the global digital economy and achieving technological sovereignty; expects that this programme will boost investments in eu high-performance computing , artificial intelligence , cybersecurity , as well as the promotion of advanced digital skills across the economy and society;


### 7. recalls that the european green deal needs to be reflected and budgeted for in all eu actions , including in education and culture; underlines that boosting citizens’ , in particular young people’s , knowledge and empowerment will help protect ecosystems and biodiversity , and accelerate the transition to a climate-neutral europe by 2050. ### 7. recalls that the european green deal needs to be reflected , mainstreamed and budgeted for in all eu actions , including in education and culture; underlines that boosting citizens’ , in particular young people’s , knowledge and empowerment will help protect ecosystems and biodiversity , and accelerate the transition to a climate-neutral europe by 2050.


### 8. stresses the central role of the eu budget in ensuring the success of the european green deal and the fair transition towards a more sustainable and resilient economy; stresses in particular the need to ensure that adequate resources underpin the new growth strategy , in order to enable the union to deliver on its commitments whilst ensuring no one is left behind , and intends to monitor closely the implementation of the strategy in the budget 2022; underlines , in this context , that a modern and resilient eu’s infrastructure is a key component of restoring competitiveness and building up eu’s strategic autonomy; recognises , therefore , the added value of the connecting europe facility (cef) and eu space programmes; ### 8. stresses the central role of the eu budget in ensuring the success of the european green deal and the fair transition towards a more sustainable and resilient economy by improving the well-being of all and reducing social inequalities and economic imbalances between member states , and disparities between gender and generations; stresses in particular the need to ensure that adequate resources underpin the new growth strategy , in order to enable the union to deliver on its commitments whilst ensuring that a just transition should leave no person and no place behind and should address social and economic inequalities and target the protection of workers in particular , and intends to monitor closely the implementation of the strategy , as well as climate and biodiversity mainstreaming in the budget 2022; reiterates that the transition to a climate-neutral economy and a sustainable society must be carried out in conjunction with the implementation of the european pillar of social rights; underlines , in this context , that a modern and resilient eu’s infrastructure is a key component of restoring competitiveness and building up eu’s strategic autonomy; recognises , therefore , the added value of the connecting europe facility (cef) and eu space programmes;


### 8. stresses the central role of the eu budget in ensuring the success of the european green deal and the fair transition towards a more sustainable and resilient economy; stresses in particular the need to ensure that adequate resources underpin the new growth strategy , in order to enable the union to deliver on its commitments whilst ensuring no one is left behind , and intends to monitor closely the implementation of the strategy in the budget 2022; underlines , in this context , that a modern and resilient eu’s infrastructure is a key component of restoring competitiveness and building up eu’s strategic autonomy; recognises , therefore , the added value of the connecting europe facility (cef) and eu space programmes; ### 8. stresses the central role of the eu budget in ensuring the success of the european green deal , boosting the member state's economic and social recovery from the coronavirus crisis by turning green challenges into investments and structural reforms opportunities and the fair transition towards a more sustainable and resilient economy; stresses in particular the need to ensure that adequate resources underpin the new growth strategy , in order to enable the union to deliver on its commitments whilst ensuring no one is left behind through the recovery funds but as well through just transition mechanism , and intends to monitor closely the implementation of the strategy in the budget 2022; underlines , in this context , that a modern and resilient eu’s infrastructure is a key component of restoring competitiveness and building up eu’s strategic autonomy; recognises , therefore , the added value of the connecting europe facility (cef) and eu space programmes;


### 8. stresses the central role of the eu budget in ensuring the success of the european green deal and the fair transition towards a more sustainable and resilient economy; stresses in particular the need to ensure that adequate resources underpin the new growth strategy , in order to enable the union to deliver on its commitments whilst ensuring no one is left behind , and intends to monitor closely the implementation of the strategy in the budget 2022; underlines , in this context , that a modern and resilient eu’s infrastructure is a key component of restoring competitiveness and building up eu’s strategic autonomy; recognises , therefore , the added value of the connecting europe facility (cef) and eu space programmes; ### 8. stresses the central role of the eu budget in ensuring the success of the european green deal and the fair transition towards a more sustainable and resilient economy; stresses in particular the need to ensure that adequate resources underpin the new growth strategy , in order to enable the union to deliver on its commitments whilst ensuring no one is left behind , and intends to monitor closely the implementation of the strategy in the budget 2022; underlines , in this context , that a modern and resilient eu’s infrastructure is a key component of restoring competitiveness and building up eu’s strategic autonomy; recognises , therefore , the added value of the connecting europe facility (cef) and eu space programmes; stresses that additional cohesion policy resources should be dedicated to the areas where energy transition represents a particular challenge , in order to strengthen their critical infrastructure;


### 8. stresses the central role of the eu budget in ensuring the success of the european green deal and the fair transition towards a more sustainable and resilient economy; stresses in particular the need to ensure that adequate resources underpin the new growth strategy , in order to enable the union to deliver on its commitments whilst ensuring no one is left behind , and intends to monitor closely the implementation of the strategy in the budget 2022; underlines , in this context , that a modern and resilient eu’s infrastructure is a key component of restoring competitiveness and building up eu’s strategic autonomy; recognises , therefore , the added value of the connecting europe facility (cef) and eu space programmes; ### 8. stresses the central role of the eu budget in ensuring the success of the european green deal and the fair transition towards a more sustainable and resilient economy; stresses in particular the need to ensure that adequate resources underpin the new growth strategy , in order to enable the union to deliver on its commitments whilst ensuring no one is left behind , and intends to monitor closely the implementation of the strategy in the budget 2022; underlines , in this context , that investing in energy efficiency , circular economy and a modern and resilient eu’s infrastructure for sustainable mobility or renewable energy are key components of restoring competitiveness , facilitating sustainable economic performance and building up eu’s strategic autonomy; recognises , therefore , the added value of the connecting europe facility (cef) and eu space programmes;


### 8. stresses the central role of the eu budget in ensuring the success of the european green deal and the fair transition towards a more sustainable and resilient economy; stresses in particular the need to ensure that adequate resources underpin the new growth strategy , in order to enable the union to deliver on its commitments whilst ensuring no one is left behind , and intends to monitor closely the implementation of the strategy in the budget 2022; underlines , in this context , that a modern and resilient eu’s infrastructure is a key component of restoring competitiveness and building up eu’s strategic autonomy; recognises , therefore , the added value of the connecting europe facility (cef) and eu space programmes; ### 8. stresses the central role of the eu budget in ensuring the success of the european green deal and the fair transition towards a more sustainable and resilient economy; stresses in particular the need to ensure that adequate resources underpin the new growth strategy , in order to enable the union to deliver on its commitments whilst ensuring no one is left behind , and intends to monitor closely the implementation of the strategy in the budget 2022; underlines , in this context , that a modern and resilient eu’s infrastructure , in particular transport and digital infrastructure , is a key component of restoring competitiveness and building up eu’s strategic autonomy; recognises , therefore , the added value of the connecting europe facility (cef) and eu space programmes; underlines in this context the importance of 5g network expansion all over europe;


### providing better prospects for the young generation and addressing demographic challenges ### providing better prospects for the young generation and addressing social and demographic challenges


### 9. underlines that , as was the case in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis , young people are once again particularly hit by the fallout of the covid-19 crisis; highlights , therefore , that all funding possibilities should be fully explored to successfully improve the labour market inclusion and life prospects for young people; ### 9. points out the changes in the life habits and work patterns resulting from the covid-19 pandemic; underlines that , as was the case in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis , young people , especially those belonging to vulnerable groups , are once again particularly hit by the fallout of the covid-19 crisis; stresses that specific support should be provided to young workers , who are among the most hit by the crisis also due to the fact that they are often employed under precarious working conditions and in temporary jobs;


### 9. underlines that , as was the case in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis , young people are once again particularly hit by the fallout of the covid-19 crisis; highlights , therefore , that all funding possibilities should be fully explored to successfully improve the labour market inclusion and life prospects for young people; ### 9. underlines that , as was the case in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis , young people , and women in particular , are once again particularly hit by the fallout of the covid-19 crisis; highlights , therefore , that all funding possibilities should be fully explored to successfully improve the labour market inclusion and life prospects for young people , including women , by providing high-quality jobs , in particular , so as to prevent in-work poverty , together with reskilling and upskilling opportunities;


### 9. underlines that , as was the case in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis , young people are once again particularly hit by the fallout of the covid-19 crisis; highlights , therefore , that all funding possibilities should be fully explored to successfully improve the labour market inclusion and life prospects for young people; ### 9. underlines that , as was the case in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis , young people are once again particularly hit by the fallout of the covid-19 crisis; highlights , therefore , that all funding possibilities should be fully explored to successfully improve the labour market inclusion and life prospects for young people , in particular via vocational training;


### 9. underlines that , as was the case in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis , young people are once again particularly hit by the fallout of the covid-19 crisis; highlights , therefore , that all funding possibilities should be fully explored to successfully improve the labour market inclusion and life prospects for young people; ### 9. underlines that , as was the case in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis , young people are once again particularly hit by the fallout of the covid-19 crisis; highlights , therefore , that all funding possibilities should be fully explored to successfully improve the labour market inclusion and life opportunities for young people;


### 10. insists that the union cannot find a sustainable path to recovery without its young generation; points , in that respect , to the extreme relevance of increasing financial resources for union programmes such as erasmus+ , whose success in broadening education , training and job opportunities across the union is undisputable; highlights the potential of this programme in promoting , excellence , innovation and entrepreneurship in an inclusive manner; ### 10. insists that the union cannot find a sustainable path to recovery without its young generation; points , in that respect , to the extreme relevance of increasing financial resources for union programmes such as erasmus+ , whose success in broadening education , training and job opportunities across the union is undisputable; stresses that erasmus+ is a flagship programme of the union that is widely known among its citizens and has delivered tangible results with a clear european added value; highlights the potential of this programme in promoting , excellence , innovation and entrepreneurship in an inclusive manner; underlines the need for special emphasis to be placed to erasmus+ for trainings and to mobility actions in adult education , particularly for the senior population;


### 10. insists that the union cannot find a sustainable path to recovery without its young generation; points , in that respect , to the extreme relevance of increasing financial resources for union programmes such as erasmus+ , whose success in broadening education , training and job opportunities across the union is undisputable; highlights the potential of this programme in promoting , excellence , innovation and entrepreneurship in an inclusive manner; ### 10. insists that the union cannot find a sustainable path to recovery without its young generation; furthermore , points to the extreme relevance of increasing financial resources for union programmes providing young people opportunities to experience education or volunteering abroad such as erasmus+ , whose success in broadening education , training and job opportunities across the union is undisputable; highlights the potential of this programme in promoting mobility , excellence , innovation , entrepreneurship and interpersonal connection in an inclusive manner; stresses that public spending should focus on human capital , education , training and the creation of quality jobs , adapted to the new labour market realities;


### 10. insists that the union cannot find a sustainable path to recovery without its young generation; points , in that respect , to the extreme relevance of increasing financial resources for union programmes such as erasmus+ , whose success in broadening education , training and job opportunities across the union is undisputable; highlights the potential of this programme in promoting , excellence , innovation and entrepreneurship in an inclusive manner; ### 10. insists that the union cannot find a sustainable path to recovery without its young generation; points , in that respect , to the extreme relevance of increasing financial resources for union programmes such as erasmus+ and creative europe , whose success in broadening education , training , cultural initiatives and job opportunities across the union is undisputable; highlights the potential of these programmes in promoting , excellence , innovation and entrepreneurship in an inclusive manner;


### 10. insists that the union cannot find a sustainable path to recovery without its young generation; points , in that respect , to the extreme relevance of increasing financial resources for union programmes such as erasmus+ , whose success in broadening education , training and job opportunities across the union is undisputable; highlights the potential of this programme in promoting , excellence , innovation and entrepreneurship in an inclusive manner; ### 10. insists that the union cannot find a sustainable path to recovery without its young generation; points , in that respect , to the extreme relevance of increasing financial resources for union programmes such as erasmus+ , whose success in broadening education , training , including vocational training and job opportunities across the union is undisputable; highlights the potential of this programme in promoting , excellence , innovation and entrepreneurship in an inclusive manner;


### 11. stresses that sustainable and long-term solutions must be found to successfully fight structural demographic challenges , as well as mitigating brain drain in rural , remote and less developed areas of the eu; emphasises the need for financial resources to revitalise areas suffering from population decline and to provide ageing populations in europe with adequate support in terms of access to healthcare , mobility and public services; highlights the need of setting up appropriate structures to study trends and propose measures to adequately address demographic change; ### 11. stresses that sustainable and long-term solutions must be found to successfully fight structural demographic challenges , as well as mitigating brain drain and labour and skills shortages in rural , remote and less developed areas of the eu; also emphasises the potential of digital solutions for creating the possibilities for telework enabling people to conduct their work without the need to move to the bigger cities; emphasises the need for financial resources to revitalise areas suffering from population decline for instance by providing better support to young families , building accessible and quality care infrastructure for children , the elderly , persons with disabilities or other vulnerable groups and to provide families and ageing populations in europe with adequate support in terms of access to healthcare and long-term care , mobility , lifelong learning and public services , and especially labour market access; highlights , therefore the need of setting up appropriate structures to study trends and propose measures to adequately and comprehensively address demographic change;


### 11. stresses that sustainable and long-term solutions must be found to successfully fight structural demographic challenges , as well as mitigating brain drain in rural , remote and less developed areas of the eu; emphasises the need for financial resources to revitalise areas suffering from population decline and to provide ageing populations in europe with adequate support in terms of access to healthcare , mobility and public services; highlights the need of setting up appropriate structures to study trends and propose measures to adequately address demographic change; ### 11. stresses that sustainable and long-term solutions must be found to successfully fight structural demographic challenges , as well as mitigating brain drain in rural , remote and less developed regions of the eu; emphasises the need for financial resources to revitalise areas suffering from population decline and to provide ageing populations in europe with adequate support in terms of access to healthcare , mobility and public services; highlights the need of setting up appropriate structures to study trends and propose measures to adequately address demographic change; notes the important demographic challenges faced by some member states caused by a high intra-european migration , considers the need to take into account this phenomenon by adding special criteria for the allocation methodology for structural funds in the future;