### 22. notes that according to tfeu , the institutions enjoy administrative autonomy and their expenditure is set out in separate parts of the budget; notes that according to the financial regulation , the institutions are individually responsible for the implementation of their budgets; ### 22. notes that according to article 316 and 335 tfeu , the institutions enjoy administrative autonomy and their expenditure is set out in separate parts of the budget; notes that according to the financial regulation , the institutions are individually responsible for the implementation of their budgets;


### 22. notes that according to tfeu , the institutions enjoy administrative autonomy and their expenditure is set out in separate parts of the budget; notes that according to the financial regulation , the institutions are individually responsible for the implementation of their budgets; ### 22. notes that according to tfeu , the institutions enjoy administrative autonomy and their expenditure is set out in separate parts of the budget; notes that according to article 59 of the financial regulation , the institutions are individually responsible for the implementation of their budgets;


### 23. notes that during the course of almost twenty years parliament has developed the practice of granting discharge to all union institutions and bodies; notes that all union institutions and bodies accept to participate in parliament’s discharge procedure , with the only exception being the council; ### deleted


### 1. highlights that in the current global security environment , an integral part of the eu’s strategic autonomy should be the independent capacity to guarantee the security of its own citizens; ### 1. highlights that in the current global security environment , where some nations are taking a step back from multilateralism , an integral part of the eu’s strategic autonomy should be the independent capacity to guarantee the security of its own citizens;


### 41. welcomes the commission’s proposal of june 2017 to create a european defence fund (edf) , which would foster cooperation between member states and support the european defence industry; notes that this proposal is the first initiative for which community funds are to be used in direct support of defence projects; recognises that this is a major step forward for european defence , from both a political and an industrial perspective; notes that the edf could finance structural projects such as the future european aircraft or tank or a european anti-missile defence capability; notes that the 2019 work programme for the preparatory action will focus on electromagnetic spectrum dominance and future disruptive defence technologies , two key areas for maintaining europe’s technological independence in the long term; welcomes , also , the adoption by the commission in march 2019 of the first european defence industrial development programme (edidp) and the publication of nine calls for proposals for 2019 , including for the eurodrone , which is a key capability for europe’s strategic autonomy; points out that 12 further calls for proposals will follow in 2020 , covering priority areas in all domains (air , land , sea , cyber and space); notes the link between the procurement decisions taken today by the member states and the prospects for industrial and technological cooperation under the edf; ### 41. welcomes the commission’s proposal of june 2017 to create a european defence fund (edf) , which would coordinate , supplement and boost national investment in defence , foster cooperation between member states to develop cutting-edge , interoperable defence technology and equipment , and support an innovative and competitive european defence industry; notes that this proposal is the first initiative for which community funds are to be used in direct support of defence projects; recognises that this is a major step forward for european defence , from both a political and an industrial perspective; notes that the edf could finance structural projects such as the future european aircraft or tank or a european anti-missile defence capability; welcomes the 2019 work programme on preparatory action on defence research (padr) , which is to earmark eur 25 million for research on electromagnetic spectrum dominance and future disruptive defence technologies , two key areas for maintaining europe’s technological independence in the long term; welcomes , also , the adoption by the commission in march 2019 of the first european defence industrial development programme (edidp) , which provides for co-financing to the tune of eur 500 million for the joint development of defence capabilities for the period 2019-2020 and the publication of nine calls for proposals for 2019 , including for the eurodrone , which is a key capability for europe’s strategic autonomy; points out that 12 further calls for proposals will follow in 2020 , covering priority areas in all domains (air , land , sea , cyber and space); notes the link between the procurement decisions taken today by the member states and the prospects for industrial and technological cooperation under the edf;


### 41. welcomes the commission’s proposal of june 2017 to create a european defence fund (edf) , which would foster cooperation between member states and support the european defence industry; notes that this proposal is the first initiative for which community funds are to be used in direct support of defence projects; recognises that this is a major step forward for european defence , from both a political and an industrial perspective; notes that the edf could finance structural projects such as the future european aircraft or tank or a european anti-missile defence capability; notes that the 2019 work programme for the preparatory action will focus on electromagnetic spectrum dominance and future disruptive defence technologies , two key areas for maintaining europe’s technological independence in the long term; welcomes , also , the adoption by the commission in march 2019 of the first european defence industrial development programme (edidp) and the publication of nine calls for proposals for 2019 , including for the eurodrone , which is a key capability for europe’s strategic autonomy; points out that 12 further calls for proposals will follow in 2020 , covering priority areas in all domains (air , land , sea , cyber and space); notes the link between the procurement decisions taken today by the member states and the prospects for industrial and technological cooperation under the edf; ### 41. welcomes the commission’s proposal of june 2017 to create a european defence fund (edf) , which would foster cooperation between member states and support the european defence industry; notes that this proposal is the first initiative for which community funds are to be used in direct support of defence projects; recognises that this is a major step forward for european defence , from both a political and an industrial perspective; notes that the edf could be involved in the financing of research and the development of structural projects such as the future european aircraft or tank or a european anti-missile defence capability; notes that the 2019 work programme for the preparatory action will focus on electromagnetic spectrum dominance and future disruptive defence technologies , two key areas for maintaining europe’s technological independence in the long term; welcomes , also , the adoption by the commission in march 2019 of the first european defence industrial development programme (edidp) and the publication of nine calls for proposals for 2019 , including for the eurodrone , which is a key capability for europe’s strategic autonomy; points out that 12 further calls for proposals will follow in 2020 , covering priority areas in all domains (air , land , sea , cyber and space); notes the link between the procurement decisions taken today by the member states and the prospects for industrial and technological cooperation under the edf;


### 41. welcomes the commission’s proposal of june 2017 to create a european defence fund (edf) , which would foster cooperation between member states and support the european defence industry; notes that this proposal is the first initiative for which community funds are to be used in direct support of defence projects; recognises that this is a major step forward for european defence , from both a political and an industrial perspective; notes that the edf could finance structural projects such as the future european aircraft or tank or a european anti-missile defence capability; notes that the 2019 work programme for the preparatory action will focus on electromagnetic spectrum dominance and future disruptive defence technologies , two key areas for maintaining europe’s technological independence in the long term; welcomes , also , the adoption by the commission in march 2019 of the first european defence industrial development programme (edidp) and the publication of nine calls for proposals for 2019 , including for the eurodrone , which is a key capability for europe’s strategic autonomy; points out that 12 further calls for proposals will follow in 2020 , covering priority areas in all domains (air , land , sea , cyber and space); notes the link between the procurement decisions taken today by the member states and the prospects for industrial and technological cooperation under the edf; ### 41. welcomes the commission’s proposal of june 2017 to create a european defence fund (edf) , which would foster cooperation between member states and support the european defence industry; notes that this proposal is the first initiative for which community funds are to be used in direct support of common eu defence projects; recognises that this is a major step forward for european defence , from both a political and an industrial perspective; notes that the edf could finance structural projects such as the future european aircraft or tank or a european anti-missile defence capability; notes that the 2019 work programme for the preparatory action will focus on electromagnetic spectrum dominance and future disruptive defence technologies , two key areas for maintaining europe’s technological independence in the long term; welcomes , also , the adoption by the commission in march 2019 of the first european defence industrial development programme (edidp) and the publication of nine calls for proposals for 2019 , including for the eurodrone , which is a key capability for europe’s strategic autonomy; points out that 12 further calls for proposals will follow in 2020 , covering priority areas in all domains (air , land , sea , cyber and space); notes the link between the procurement decisions taken today by the member states and the prospects for industrial and technological cooperation under the edf;


### b. whereas the union should continue to act to promote dialogue and guarantee peace and a rules-based international order by strengthening multilateralism and further developing a strong democratic and parliamentary dimension to its external action; ### b. whereas the union should continue to act to promote dialogue and guarantee peace and a rules-based international order by strengthening multilateralism and further developing a strong democratic and parliamentary dimension to its external action; whereas strengthening international security , promoting international cooperation with third countries and advancing and consolidating democracy and the rule of law , and the respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms remain core objectives of the union’s external action;


### 2. urges the member states to make use of article 31(2) tue , which allows the council to take certain decisions by qualified majority in cfsp matters; calls on the member states to make full use of the passerelle clause contained in article 31(3) teu; ### 2. urges the member states to make use of article 31(2) teu which allows the council to take certain decisions by qualified majority in cfsp matters and article 42(7); calls on the member states to make full use of the passerelle clause contained in article 31(3) teu; calls for an amendment of article 42 teu that would allow switching to reinforced qmv , requiring 72% of council members representing at least 65% of population , for decisions with military implications;


### 3. urges the member states and the commission to assess how the role of the vice-president of the commission / high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy (vp/hr) could be strengthened; ### 3. urges the member states and the commission to strengthen the role of the vice-president of the commission / high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy (vp/hr); points out that his can be done through a treaty change that would name the vice-president/high representative a foreign minister of the union , would make him or her the main external representative of the union in international fora and would allow him or her to be present ex-officio in negotiating formats initiated or led by the member states; supports the call from citizens of the union in the conference on the future of europe wishing the eu to speak with one voice;


### 5. calls for the development of more integrated cooperation in the field of foreign and security policy with external alliances such as the north atlantic treaty organization and external like-minded countries , in particular the us , the uk and canada. ### 5. reaffirms its strong commitment to the union’s partnership with the north atlantic treaty organisation , which remains fundamental to eu security policy; calls for the development of more integrated cooperation in the field of foreign and security policy in the framework of a consolidated partnership within the north atlantic treaty organization and eu allies and partners , in particular the us , the uk and canada.


### b. whereas the participation of women in peacekeeping and military operations improves outcomes2 ; ### b. whereas the participation of women in peacekeeping and military operations improves outcomes by improving outreach , local perceptions of the mission , intelligence gathering , and increased reporting of sexual violence 2 ;


### c. whereas cooperation should be envisaged with the uk and possibly with the european political community , including on security and defence matters; ### c. whereas close cooperation with the uk remains crucial within the osce and the nato and potentially within the european political community , on security and defence matters;


### 1. stresses that the russian invasion of ukraine underlines the unequivocal need for security and defence measures to be gender-responsive; ### 1. stresses that the russian invasion of ukraine underlines the unequivocal need for security and defence measures to be gender-responsive , including preventing sexual violence and rape as a weapon of war , in defending women’s rights to sexual and reproductive health and rights (srhr) and in eradicating trafficking in human-beings;


### 2. urges the member states to make use of article 31(2) of the treaty on european union (teu) , which allows the council to take certain decisions by qualified majority in common foreign and security policy (cfsp) matters; calls on the member states to make full use of the passerelle clause contained in article 31(3) teu; ### 2. urges the member states to make use of article 31(2) of the treaty on european union (teu) , which allows the council to take certain decisions such as sanctions or related to human rights but also on opening negociations by qualified majority in common foreign and security policy (cfsp) matters; calls on the member states to make full use of the passerelle clause contained in article 31(3) teu;


### 2. recalls that gender equality is a fundamental value and key objective of the eu , and calls for accelerated implementation of un security council resolution 1325 on women , peace and security; ### 2. recalls that gender equality is a fundamental value and key objective of the eu , and calls for accelerated implementation of un security council resolution 1325 on women , peace and security and of un security council resolution 2250 on youth , peace and security (yps) , in line with the commitment of the strategic compass;


### 3. calls on the european external action service (eeas) and the member states to ensure effective gender mainstreaming across all common security and defence policy (csdp) missions; calls specifically for the next csdp compact to set targets for gender balance in the personnel , especially in leadership positions as there are only three female heads of civilian missions and no female commanders of military missions; ### 3. calls on the european external action service (eeas) and the member states to ensure effective gender mainstreaming across all common security and defence policy (csdp) missions; recalls the importance of including the gender perspective at every step of a csdp mission by consulting gender experts and gender advisers early and throughout the process; calls specifically for the next civilian csdp compact and the planning of military missions and operations to set targets for gender balance in the personnel , especially in leadership positions as there are only three female heads of civilian missions and no female commanders of military missions;


### 4. emphasises the important work of gender advisers in csdp missions; regrets that the post of gender adviser remains vacant in several military missions and calls for these posts to be filled; recognises the relevant role of the gender focal points network in missions and expects its continued development and training; encourages structured exchange of best practices between civilian and military missions; ### 4. emphasises the important work of gender advisers in csdp missions; regrets that the post of gender adviser remains vacant in several military missions and calls for these posts to be filled; regrets that whilst there is a full-time gender expert at headquarters level for civilian missions since 2018 there is no such post for military missions and calls for such a post to be created as a priority; recognises the relevant role of the gender focal points network in missions and expects its continued development and training; encourages structured exchange of best practices between civilian and military missions in particular so that gender-equality initiatives currently practiced within civilian missions can be applied in military missions;


### 5. regrets the fact that , to date , the eu-uk trade and cooperation agreement has not been extended to matters falling under the common security and defence policy (csdp); reiterates the need for an agreement on eu-uk foreign policy and security cooperation in order to better tackle common global security challenges; ### 5. regrets the fact that , to date , the eu-uk trade and cooperation agreement has not been extended to matters falling under the common security and defence policy (csdp); reiterates the need for an agreement on eu-uk foreign policy and security cooperation in order to better tackle common global and european security challenges;


### 5. calls for a zero-tolerance approach to sexual and gender-based harassment and sexual exploitation within all csdp missions and insists that independent oversight be employed to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable; urges the eeas and the member states to guarantee safety from sexual exploitation; calls for specialised support , including counselling and psychological services , to be made available to all victims; ### 5. deplores any sexual violence perpetrated by members of csdp missions , or by local authorities trained by csdp missions; calls for the provisions in the upgraded standards of behaviour for csdp missions and operations to be fully implemented and turned into a comprehensive zero-tolerance approach to sexual and gender-based harassment and sexual exploitation within all csdp missions; insists that independent oversight be employed to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable and victims can report in full confidence of anonymity and protection; urges the eeas and the member states to guarantee safety from sexual exploitation , with mandatory training for all mission members and sub-contractors; calls for specialised support , including counselling and psychological services , to be made available to all victims;


### 6. calls for ring-fencing of funding for gender-related actions within the csdp. ### 6. calls for ring-fencing of funding for gender-related actions within the csdp and the european peace facility , in particular to guarantee the work of gender advisers across all csdp missions and to support the growth of the gender focal points network;


### 13. expresses deep concern about developments in the sahel region and the recent coups d’état in the region; condemns the increasing presence of the kremlin-backed wagner group in the sahel; firmly believes that the latter’s involvement in west africa runs counter to the objective of bringing peace , security and stability to the region; acknowledges that the various international missions have not yet achieved their primary goal of lasting peace in the region and that a reflection process on the mandates and roles of international missions and policies is therefore needed; expresses similar concern over the increased presence and activity of islamist terrorist groups , in particular al-qaeda , daesh and al-shabaab in the middle east and africa; ### 13. expresses deep concern about developments in the sahel region and the recent coups d’état in the region; condemns the increasing presence of the kremlin-backed wagner group in the sahel; firmly believes that the latter’s involvement in west africa runs counter to the objective of bringing peace , security and stability to the region; acknowledges that the various international missions have not yet achieved their primary goal of lasting peace in the region and that a reflection process on the mandates and roles of international missions and policies is therefore needed; expresses similar concern over the increased presence and activity of islamist terrorist groups , in particular al-qaeda , daesh and al-shabaab in the middle east and africa; calls on the hr/vp to take stock of the main strands of the strategic review of eucsdp engagement in the region; welcomes the decision to suspend all operational trainings and delivery of military equipment to mali; welcomes the preparation and underlines the need to provide a csdp military support to niger , making the best use of a broad and flexible mandate; calls on the eu to continue exploring the ways to increase security partnerships with the coastal states of the gulf of guinea;


### ‘zero trust’ means a security model , a set of system design principles , and a coordinated cybersecurity and system management strategy based on an acknowledgement of the existence of threats inside and outside traditional network boundaries; ### ‘zero trust’ means a security model , a set of system design principles , and a coordinated cybersecurity and system management strategy based on an acknowledgement of the existence of threats inside and outside traditional network boundaries and 'never trust , always verify' concept.


### information security incidents shall be formally recorded and followed up , in accordance with regulation eu [xxx] laying down measures for a high common level of cybersecurity at the institutions , bodies , offices and agencies of the union. ### information security incidents shall be formally recorded and handled , in accordance with regulation eu [xxx] laying down measures for a high common level of cybersecurity at the institutions , bodies , offices and agencies of the union.


### 1. notes that the geopolitical impact of the covid-19 pandemic and a quickly deteriorating security environment are posing unprecedented challenges to the union’s common foreign and security policy; emphasises that , in the face of these challenges , the union needs to stay resilient and improve the speed of its responses to the fast-changing global environment; ### 1. notes that the geopolitical impact of the covid-19 pandemic and a quickly deteriorating security environment are posing unprecedented challenges to the union’s common foreign and security policy; emphasises that , in the face of these challenges , the union needs to increase its resilience and fundamentally evaluate and improve the effectiveness and speed of its responses to the fast-changing global environment;


### 2. notes the union’s committed relationship with nato , which remains fundamental to eu security policy; welcomes , in this regard , the ongoing preparation of the new eu-nato joint declaration , which will be presented before the end of the year; ### 2. remains strongly committed to the union’s partnership with nato , which remains fundamental to eu security policy; welcomes , in this regard , the ongoing preparation of the new eu-nato joint declaration , which will be presented before the end of the year; calls on the high representative and member states to seize the occasion to deepen the multilateral security cooperation with trusted partners and ensure the coherence with internal policies; points out meanwhile , that the eu must assume responsibility and also bolster its security policy through the relevant internal policy frameworks;


### 3. calls for increased efforts to fight foreign disinformation and information manipulation , which negatively influence the union’s ability to implement effectively its internal and foreign policies; ### 3. calls on all eu decision-makers to ramp up efforts to fight foreign disinformation and information manipulation and other hybrid threats , which negatively undermine the union’s ability to develop and implement effectively its internal and foreign policies; calls on all eu institutions and member states to modernise responses against these threats , among others through a new eu hybrid toolbox which should include consistent collective countermeasures against foreign aggressors;


### 4. calls for the strengthening of parliamentary oversight of eu external action , including by continuing its regular consultations with the vice-president of the commission / high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy and the commission; calls for the swift conclusion of negotiations to replace the 2002 interinstitutional agreement on parliament’s access to sensitive information of the council in the field of security and defence policy; ### 4. calls on the european commission and member states to enable and strengthen parliamentary oversight of eu external action , including by continuing its regular consultations with the vice-president of the commission / high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy and the commission; underlines that such oversight is critical for the proper functioning of european democracy and public trust; stresses that such oversight should be the starting point toward a strong institutional role for the european parliament in the cfsp; calls for the swift conclusion of negotiations to replace the 2002 interinstitutional agreement on parliament’s access to sensitive information of the council in the field of security and defence policy;


### b. whereas recent international developments and challenges , including the covid-19 pandemic and the recent rapid collapse of the state structures of afghanistan , have accelerated existing trends affecting key aspects of the eu’s cfsp; ### b. whereas recent international developments and challenges , including the covid-19 pandemic , hybrid attacks against the eu member states by instrumentalizing migrants and the recent rapid collapse of the state structures of afghanistan , have accelerated existing trends affecting key aspects of the eu’s cfsp;


### b. whereas recent international developments and challenges , including the covid-19 pandemic and the recent rapid collapse of the state structures of afghanistan , have accelerated existing trends affecting key aspects of the eu’s cfsp; ### b. whereas recent international developments and challenges , including the covid-19 pandemic , a changing role of the us on the global stage and the recent rapid collapse of the state structures in afghanistan and subsequent takeover of the country by the taliban , have accelerated existing trends affecting key aspects of the eu’s cfsp;


### b. whereas recent international developments and challenges , including the covid-19 pandemic and the recent rapid collapse of the state structures of afghanistan , have accelerated existing trends affecting key aspects of the eu’s cfsp; ### b. whereas recent international developments and challenges , including the covid-19 pandemic and the recent rapid collapse of the state structures of afghanistan , and belarusian continuous breach of international law , have accelerated existing trends affecting key aspects of the eu’s cfsp;


### 1. notes that the geopolitical impact of the covid-19 pandemic and a quickly deteriorating security environment are posing unprecedented challenges to the union’s common security and defence policy (csdp); emphasises , against this background , that achieving the objectives of the csdp to strengthen the union’s operational capacity as provided for in the treaty on european union is more necessary than ever; ### 1. notes that the geopolitical impact of the covid-19 pandemic and a quickly deteriorating security environment are posing unprecedented challenges to the union’s common security and defence policy (csdp); emphasises , against this background , that achieving the objectives of the csdp to strengthen the union’s operational capacity as provided for in the treaty on european union whilst strengthening the csdp in a fundamental way is more necessary than ever;


### 2. reiterates its call for the establishment of a permanent council of defence ministers chaired by the vice-president of the commission / high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy , with a view to coordinating the defence policies of the member states , particularly with regard to cybersecurity and anti-terrorism; ### 2. reiterates its call for the establishment of a permanent council of defence ministers chaired by the vice-president of the commission / high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy , with a view to coordinating the defence policies of the member states and enhancing security capabilities , particularly with regard to cybersecurity and anti-terrorism; calls on the member states to respect the role of the hrvp in international negotiations; regrets in this regard that the involvement of the hrvp is often not foreseen in international negotiations; underlines that a strongly perceived role of the hrvp translates into an increased geopolitical impact of the csdp


### 3. notes the union’s committed relationship with nato , which remains fundamental to eu security policy; welcomes , in this regard , the ongoing preparation of the new eu-nato joint declaration , which will be presented before the end of the year; ### 3. remains strongly committed to the union’s partnership with nato , which remains fundamental to eu security policy; welcomes , in this regard , the ongoing preparation of the new eu-nato joint declaration , which will be presented before the end of the year; calls on the high representative and member states to seize the occasion to deepen the multilateral security cooperation with trusted partners and ensure the coherence with internal policies; points out meanwhile , that the eu must assume responsibility and also bolster its security policy through the relevant internal policy frameworks;


### 4. calls for increased efforts to fight foreign interference in the union’s security and defence , which often takes the form of cyber threats or other types of hybrid warfare; supports , in this regard , the development of the european cyber defence policy , as announced by the president of the commission in the state of the union address; ### 4. calls for increased efforts to fight foreign interference in the union’s security and defence , which often takes the form of cyber threats or other types of hybrid warfare; supports , in this regard , the development of the european cyber defence policy , as announced by the president of the commission in the state of the union address; calls on all eu institutions and member states to modernise responses against these threats , among others through a new eu hybrid toolbox which should include consistent collective countermeasures against foreign aggressors;


### 5. reiterates that parliament should play a prominent role in scrutinising and supervising the implementation and evaluation of the csdp , including monitoring the implementation of the permanent structured cooperation. ### 5. reiterates that parliament should play a prominent role in scrutinising and supervising the implementation and evaluation of the csdp , including monitoring the implementation of the permanent structured cooperation; underlines that such oversight is critical for the proper functioning of european democracy and public trust; stresses that such oversight should be the starting point toward a strong institutional role for the european parliament in the csdp;


### 24. calls on the union to build on and develop its csdp naval operations in order to provide a strong platform to further develop a more permanent operational commitment at international level; calls for consideration to be given to the possibility of organising regular naval exercises to enhance interoperability; ### 24. calls on the union to build on and develop its csdp naval operations in order to provide a strong platform to further develop a more permanent operational commitment at international level; calls for consideration to be given to the possibility of organising regular naval exercises , including together with and within nato to enhance interoperability;


### 25. welcomes , in this context , the launch of the concept of coordinated maritime presences (cmps) and a pilot project in the gulf of guinea; calls for this concept to be extended to other areas of interest , in particular the indo-pacific region; calls for the union to update its maritime security strategy by 2022; ### 25. welcomes , in this context , the launch of the concept of coordinated maritime presences (cmps) and a pilot project in the gulf of guinea; calls for this concept to be extended to other areas of interest , in particular the indo-pacific region , based on the needs analysis; calls for the union to update its maritime security strategy by 2022;


### 25. welcomes , in this context , the launch of the concept of coordinated maritime presences (cmps) and a pilot project in the gulf of guinea; calls for this concept to be extended to other areas of interest , in particular the indo-pacific region; calls for the union to update its maritime security strategy by 2022; ### 25. welcomes , in this context , the launch of the concept of coordinated maritime presences (cmps) and a pilot project in the gulf of guinea; calls for this concept to be extended to other areas of interest , in particular the indo-pacific region; calls for the commission and the eu to update its maritime security strategy by 2022;


### 26. condemns the malicious acts committed against member states; insists that the union and the member states react firmly and in coordination against any new malicious , illegal or destabilising activity; calls on the union to work towards the creation of a legal instrument to respond to hybrid threats and to develop a comprehensive cyber capacity; calls for a revision of the cyber-defence policy framework in order to increase the prevention and deterrence capacity of the union and its member states; ### 26. condemns the malicious cyber acts committed against member states; insists that the union and the member states react firmly and in coordination against any new malicious , illegal or destabilising cyber activity by making full use of the instruments at the eu’s disposal and in coordination with its partners; calls on the union to work towards the creation of a legal instrument to respond to hybrid threats and to develop a comprehensive cyber capacity including the securing of networks , communications and information-sharing , the implementation of training/exercises , including via csp projects , and by making good use of the eu’s cyber diplomacy toolkit; calls for a revision of the cyber-defence policy framework in order to increase the prevention and deterrence capacity of the union and its member states , by enhancing their posture capability , situational awareness , tools and procedures;


### 26. condemns the malicious acts committed against member states; insists that the union and the member states react firmly and in coordination against any new malicious , illegal or destabilising activity; calls on the union to work towards the creation of a legal instrument to respond to hybrid threats and to develop a comprehensive cyber capacity; calls for a revision of the cyber-defence policy framework in order to increase the prevention and deterrence capacity of the union and its member states; ### 26. condemns the malicious acts committed against member states , including hybrid attacks weaponising migration by the belarusian regime; insists that the union and the member states react firmly and in coordination against any new malicious , illegal or destabilising activity; calls on the union to work towards the creation of a legal instrument to respond to hybrid threats and to develop a comprehensive cyber capacity; calls for a revision of the cyber-defence policy framework in order to increase the prevention , attribution , deterrence and response capacity of the union and its member states;


### 3. calls urgently on the commission to closely integrate the european pillar of social rights into the economic governance of the union; ### 3. calls urgently on the commission and the european council to closely integrate the european pillar of social rights into the economic governance of the union;


### 4. recalls that the eurogroup and the euro summit are informal formations of the union; notes that this represents a significant impediment to the democratic legitimacy of the union as a whole; ### 4. recalls that the eurogroup and the euro summit are informal formations of the union; notes that this represents a significant impediment to the democratic legitimacy of the union as a whole and calls for their integration into the treaty framework;


### 6. recalls the importance of parity; regrets that only applications from male candidates have been submitted to parliament for the latest posts to be filled in the economic bodies of the union; ### 6. recalls the importance of gender equality; regrets that only applications from male candidates have been submitted to parliament for the latest posts to be filled in the economic bodies of the union;


### f. whereas the role of the eu institutions in the withdrawal procedure was key in the interpretation and implementation of the provisions of article 50 of the teu , in minimising institutional disruption , safeguarding the unity of member states and ensuring an orderly withdrawal; ### f. whereas the role of all eu institutions in the withdrawal procedure was key in the interpretation and implementation of the provisions of article 50 of the teu , in minimising institutional disruption , safeguarding the unity of member states and ensuring an orderly withdrawal;


### 6. considers that the swift and firm identification of the priorities in the context of the withdrawal of the uk from the union , and in particular , the protection of the rights of the millions of eu citizens in the uk and uk nationals in the eu affected by the withdrawal , the special circumstances confronting the island of ireland and a single financial settlement were key in structuring the process and stabilising its impact in the union; ### 6. considers that the swift and firm identification of the priorities in the context of the withdrawal of the uk from the union , and in particular , the protection of the rights of the millions of eu citizens in the uk and uk nationals in the eu affected by the withdrawal , the special circumstances confronting the island of ireland , the mutual access to waters for the fishing industry , and a single financial settlement were key in structuring the process and stabilising its impact in the union;


### - delimited requirements for the extension of the period of two years set out under article 50(3) of the teu , ### - delimited requirements for the extension of the two-year period , set out under article 50(3) of the teu , which should be limited to one prolongation , except in particular circumstances ,


### 15. reiterates that , until a withdrawal agreement enters into force or , failing that , the two-year period mentioned in article 50(3) of the teu has elapsed , the withdrawing state remains a member state , and enjoys all the rights and is under all the obligations deriving from the treaties without exception , including the principle of sincere cooperation laid down in article 4(3) of the teu , as well as the obligation to hold elections to the european parliament; ### 15. reiterates that , until a withdrawal agreement enters into force or , failing that , the two-year period mentioned in article 50(3) of the teu has elapsed , the withdrawing state remains a member state , and enjoys all the rights and is under all the obligations deriving from the treaties without exception , including the principle of sincere cooperation laid down in article 4(3) of the teu , as well as the obligation to hold elections to the european parliament and to fulfil its financial settlement;


### 17. considers , in this context , that the role of the parliament is essential in safeguarding the parliamentary and democratic dimension of a procedure with such a constitutional and institutional impact on the union; considers that its role must be enhanced in any future treaty reform , in all aspects of the process from the negotiations to the implementation of a withdrawal agreement , including for major decisions such as extensions in accordance with article 50(3) of the teu; ### 17. considers , in this context , that the role of the parliament is essential in safeguarding the parliamentary and democratic dimension of a procedure with such a constitutional and institutional impact on the union; considers that in any future treaty reform , its role must be enhanced to consent in all aspects of the process from the negotiations to the implementation of a withdrawal agreement , including for major decisions such as extensions in accordance with article 50(3) of the teu;


### 18. considers that article 50 of the teu addresses and solves the procedural aspect of a member state’s withdrawal , but does not solve the significant political and economic consequences and disruptive effects of the withdrawal of a member state from the eu; ### 18. considers that article 50 of the teu addresses and solves the procedural aspect of a member state’s withdrawal , but does not solve the significant political and economic consequences and disruptive effects of the withdrawal of a member state from the eu , furthermore , specific solutions should be prepared in case of a no-deal and of a disorderly withdrawal;


### 1. grants the secretary-general of the council discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the european council and of the council for the financial year 2020 / postpones its decision on granting the secretary-general of the council discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the european council and of the council for the financial year 2020; ### 1. postpones its decision on granting the secretary-general of the council discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the european council and of the council for the financial year 2020;


### 7. recalls and supports the ombudsman recommendations on the transparency of the legislative process in the council; regrets that the decision-making process in the council is still far from fully transparent; asks the council to take all the necessary measures to implement the ombudsman recommendations and the relevant rulings of the court of justice; ### 7. recalls and supports the ombudsman recommendations on the transparency of the legislative process in the council; regrets that the decision-making process in the council is still far from fully transparent , affecting the citizens' trust in the union as a transparent entity and thereby jeopardising the reputation of the union as a whole; urges the council to take all the necessary measures to implement the ombudsman recommendations and the relevant rulings of the court of justice without undue delay;


### 21. recalls its resolution of 17 december 2020 on the need for a dedicated council configuration on gender equality2 as a dedicated institutional forum to ensure stronger integration of gender equality in union strategies , coordination of all related policies and progress in the main files related to gender equality , as well as harmonisation of the protection of women’s rights and gender equality; ### 21. recalls its resolution of 17 december 2020 on the need for a dedicated council configuration on gender equality2 as a dedicated institutional forum to ensure stronger integration of gender equality in union strategies , coordination of all related policies and progress in the main files related to gender equality , as well as harmonisation of the protection of women’s rights and gender equality; regrets that the council has thus far ignored this call of parliament;


### 26. welcomes the political agreement on the transparency register for interest representatives , reached by parliament , the council and the commission on 15 december 2020; emphasises the importance for the council , including the member states’ representatives , of harmonising , improving and enforcing the existing ethics rules , in particular with regard to conflicts of interest , revolving doors and lobby transparency rules; ### 26. welcomes the political agreement on the transparency register for interest representatives , reached by parliament , the council and the commission on 15 december 2020; urges the council , including the member states’ representatives , to harmonise , improve and enforce the existing ethics rules , in particular with regard to conflicts of interest , revolving doors and lobby transparency rules;


### 27. regrets the use of corporate sponsorship to cover some of the expenses incurred by member states to finance their council presidency; reiterates its concern with respect to the possible reputational damage that such practice might cause to the council and to the union; regrets that a common set of clear , concrete and binding rules has not been set out in the guidance on sponsorship included in 2021 in the council ‘s presidency handbook; reiterates its call on the council to examine budgeting the council presidency; ### 27. regrets the use of corporate sponsorship to cover some of the expenses incurred by member states to finance their council presidency; reiterates its concern with respect to the reputational damage that such practice has caused to the council and to the union; regrets that a common set of clear , concrete and binding rules has not been set out in the guidance on sponsorship included in 2021 in the council ‘s presidency handbook; reiterates its call on the council to examine budgeting the council presidency;


### 30. reiterates its full endorsement of the ombudsman’s recommendations on transparency of the council legislative process , following the ombudsman’s strategic inquiry (case oi/2/2017/te); believes that compliance with the ombudsman's recommendations would enable citizens to be more involved and to better understand union law making; welcomes the measures adopted by the council in july 2020 to strengthen legislative transparency in line with the ombudsman’s recommendations , including the proactive publication of progress reports on negotiations on draft legislative acts as well as the council mandate for negotiations with parliament; urges the council to keep taking all the necessary measures to implement the ombudsman’s recommendations; ### 30. reiterates its full endorsement of the ombudsman’s recommendations on transparency of the council legislative process , following the ombudsman’s strategic inquiry (case oi/2/2017/te) and the case law of the court of justice of the european union (cjeu) on transparency and access to documents; believes that compliance with the ombudsman's recommendations would enable citizens to be more involved and to better understand union law making; welcomes the measures adopted by the council in july 2020 to strengthen legislative transparency in line with the ombudsman’s recommendations , including the proactive publication of progress reports on negotiations on draft legislative acts as well as the council mandate for negotiations with parliament; regrets , however , that the decision-making process in the council is still far from transparent; calls therefore on the council to implement the relevant cjeu rulings according to their letter and spirit and not to circumvent them; urges the council to keep taking all the necessary measures to implement the ombudsman’s recommendations and the cjeu rulings without undue delay;


### 33. supports the ombudsman’s remarks on the need to improve legislative transparency by recording and making the member states’ positions more accessible and by making more trilogue documents available; ### 33. supports the ombudsman’s remarks on the need to improve legislative transparency by recording and making the member states’ positions more accessible , which has already been established in 2013 by cjeu case law1a , and by making more trilogue documents available;


### 46. stresses that the current situation , where the council refuses to collaborate with parliament in the context of the annual budgetary discharge procedure , makes it impossible for parliament to make an informed decision on granting discharge , and that this has a lasting negative effect on both institutions and discredits the management and democratic scrutiny of the union budget; regrets the council’s continuing refusal to engage in loyal cooperation in the framework of the discharge procedure that has lasted for more than a decade; ### 46. deplores that the council for more than a decade has shown that it does not have any political willingness to collaborate with parliament in the context of the annual budgetary discharge procedure which makes it impossible for parliament to make an informed decision on granting discharge; underlines that this attitude has had a lasting negative effect on both institutions and has discredited the management and democratic scrutiny of the union budget and on the trust of citizens in the union as a transparent entity; deeply regrets the council’s continuing refusal to engage in loyal cooperation in the framework of the discharge procedure that has lasted for more than a decade; refuses therefore , at this time , to grant discharge to the council;


### 49. regrets that the covid-19 pandemic and the exceptional situation experienced have been used as an excuse for not resuming interinstitutional negotiations on the discharge procedure; remains nevertheless convinced that an agreement on this matter is possible and , therefore , calls on the council to resume negotiations without undue delay in order to find a solution in the current framework of the discharge procedure while securing the differentiation and respect of the respective roles of parliament and the council; ### 49. considers it unacceptable that the covid-19 pandemic and the exceptional situation experienced have been used as an excuse for not resuming interinstitutional negotiations on the discharge procedure; remains nevertheless convinced that an agreement on this matter is possible if the council were to show any political willingness to collaborate; calls , therefore , on the council to resume negotiations without undue delay in order to find a solution in the current framework of the discharge procedure if it is interested in showing union citizens that it takes proper budget control and transparency seriously;


### d. whereas the procedure for the 2014 elections set a precedent for the role of the parliament in the selection of the ec president; whereas it was not possible for that procedure to become part of an overall reform of eu electoral law , which contributed to creating the political background for the unexpected disapplication of the lead candidate principle following the european elections of 2019 , which resulted from the lack of a common indication from the european political parties and parliamentary groups in support of one of the lead candidates and the european council’s lack of agreement on nominating any of the lead candidates; ### d. whereas the procedure for the 2014 elections set a precedent for the role of the parliament in the selection of the ec president; whereas that procedure did not become part of an overall reform of eu electoral law; whereas the lack of a common indication from the european political parties and parliamentary groups in support of one of the lead candidates , and the european council’s lack of agreement on nominating any of the lead candidates contributed to the disapplication of the lead candidate principle following the european elections of 2019;


### g. whereas the turnout registered in the 2019 european elections was the highest of any elections to the european parliament in the last 20 years; whereas increased turnout is a positive signal shows that citizens of the union are taking an increasing interest in the development of the european integration , as indicated also by the results of the special eurobarometer of 9 march 2021; ### g. whereas the turnout registered in the 2019 european elections was the highest of any elections to the european parliament in the last 20 years; whereas increased turnout is a positive signal and shows that citizens , and in particular the youngest generations of the union are taking an increasing interest in the development of the european integration , as indicated also by the results of the special eurobarometer of 9 march 2021; whereas increased interest in european elections signals that eu citizens demand a swift action from the eu in the field of climate change , the protection of human rights and rule of law , migration , and the role of the eu in international relations;


### p. whereas european political parties are best placed to "contribute to forming european political awareness" and should therefore play a stronger role in the campaigns for parliament elections in order to improve their visibility and to make clear the link between a vote for a particular national party and the impact it has on the size of a european political group in the european parliament; ### p. whereas european political parties are best placed to "contribute to forming european political awareness" and should therefore play a stronger role in the campaigns for parliament elections in order to improve their visibility and to make clear the link between a vote for a particular national party and the impact it has on the size of a european political group in the european parliament , and on the nomination of the president of the european commission;


### 10. believes that all european voters should be allowed to indicate their preferred candidate for the president of the commission , and that leading candidates should be able to stand in all member states , nominated by a european political party , by a movement or by a coalition of european parties , putting forward a common electoral programme; ### 10. believes that all european voters should be allowed to vote their preferred candidate for the president of the commission , and that leading candidates should be able to stand in all member states , nominated by a european political party , by a movement or by a coalition of european parties , putting forward a common electoral programme;


### 3. welcomes the fact that the appf developed a set of principles to render operational the right of eu political parties to campaign in european elections; highlights that the first review of the accounts identified possible improvements , particularly regarding the level of detail and comparability of the requested information; ### 3. welcomes the fact that the appf developed a set of principles to render operational the right of eu political parties to campaign in european elections; highlights that the first review of the accounts identified possible improvements , particularly regarding the level of detail and comparability of the requested information; underlines that the authority should provide information covering the registration and financial situation of european political parties and foundations , to the greatest extent possible , and should make this information publicly available in a user-friendly , complete and updated manner;


### 4. recalls that article 38 of regulation (eu , euratom) no 1141/2014 requires parliament to adopt a report by the end of 2021 , and the commission to present a report on the same matter six months after that , probably accompanied by a legislative proposal to amend the regulation; ### 4. recalls that article 38 of regulation (eu , euratom) no 1141/2014 requires parliament to adopt a report by the end of 2021 , and the commission to present a report on the same matter six months after that , which shall be accompanied , if appropriate , by a legislative proposal to amend the regulation;


### 2. welcomes the 2019 annual activity report presented by the authority for european political parties and european political foundations (appf); notes that the appf performed the first review of the accounts of eu parties and foundations in the context of the european elections , ensuring their compliance with the financial regulation; ### 2. notes that 2018 was the first year of implementation of regulation (eu , euratom) no 114l/2014; welcomes the 2019 annual activity report presented by the authority for european political parties and european political foundations (appf); notes that the appf performed the first review of the accounts of eu parties and foundations in the context of the european elections , ensuring their compliance regulation (eu , euratom) no 114l/2014 , while the directorate general for finance of the european parliament ensures the compliance with the financial regulation;


### 7. recalls that regulation (eu , euratom) no 1141/2014 requires national parties to display the logo , the political programme and the website link of their eu party of affiliation on their websites as a condition for accessing funds; calls on the commission to clearly define the requirements related to the visibility of the european party of affiliation. ### 7. recalls that regulation (eu , euratom) no 1141/2014 requires national parties to display the logo , the political programme and the website link of their eu party of affiliation on their websites as a condition for the european political party to access funds; calls on the commission to clearly define the requirements related to the visibility of the european party of affiliation.


### 1. welcomes the fact that the court of auditors ('the court') has declared the transactions underlying the annual accounts of the european asylum support office (the 'office') for the financial year 2021 to be legal and regular in all material aspects; notes that the office's budget increased from eur 149 to 177 million (an increase of 18 ,8%) between 2020 and 2021 , while members of staff increased from 380 to 423 (an increase of 11 ,3%) within the same period; ### 1. welcomes the fact that the court of auditors ('the court') has declared the transactions underlying the annual accounts of the european asylum support office (the 'office') for the financial year 2021 to be legal and regular in all material aspects; notes that , according to its statement of revenue and expenditure the office's budget increased to eur 152.7 million (an increase of 8 ,5%) between 2020 and 2021 , while members of staff increased from 380 to 423 (an increase of 11 ,3%) within the same period;


### 3. notes however that a high number of management posts are vacant and that many had been occupied by interim staff; recalls that one of the reasons underlying the dependency on interim staff was the delay of the adoption and entry into force of the regulation establishing a european union agency for asylum; notes with regret serious lack of foresight of the commission when designing and allocating these posts to the office; ### 3. notes however that a high number of management posts are vacant and that many had been occupied by interim staff for more than one year , which is the maximum period allowed by the union's staff regulations; takes note that by november 2022 , 3 senior management members were still on interim positions , while 2 had occupied their posts for more than legally permitted; notes from the office's replies that two senior management positions were under recruitment by the end of 2022; calls on the office to fully comply with union law provisions and refrain from prolonging ad-interim contracts for more than the maximum duration stipulated by the relevant legal provisions; recalls that one of the reasons underlying the dependency on interim staff was the delay of the adoption and entry into force of the regulation establishing a european union agency for asylum; notes with regret serious lack of foresight of the commission when designing and allocating these posts to the office;


### 4. recalls the important role that the office fulfils in the common european asylum system (ceas) , assisting requesting member states in improving the efficiency and quality of their asylum systems; ### 4. recalls the important role that the office fulfils in the common european asylum system (ceas) , assisting requesting member states in improving the efficiency and quality of their asylum systems; notes with satisfaction that in 2021 , new operational plans were signed by the office with latvia , lithuania and belgium;


### 5. is concerned about the accusations of misconduct that have been brought to the attention to olaf and the eu institutions; requests that allegations of misconduct are thoroughly checked and investigated; ### 5. expresses great concern about the accusations of misconduct on staff-related irregularities caused by the office’s senior management , brought to the attention of olaf and the eu institutions through an anonymous complaint in september 2022; is deeply concerned about the seriousness of the aforementioned allegations that include claims of unlawful , opaque or partial recruitment and promotion of senior management members , allegations of harassment or mismanagement of funds relating to missions of office staff; requests that allegations of misconduct are thoroughly checked and investigated; calls on the office to ensure the full and sincere cooperation with olaf throughout all stages of the investigation and to regularly report to the european parliament about the progress of the state and outcome of the investigation;


### 6. stresses the impact of the russian war against ukraine on the activities of easo and the fact that easo had to request additional human and financial resources to face the increased demand for assistance from member states; ### 6. stresses the impact of the russian war against ukraine on the activities of easo and the fact that easo had to request additional human and financial resources to face the increased demand for assistance from member states; commends in this regard the prompt actions taken by the office to support member states in the implementation of the temporary protection directive , as well as the deployment of a number of staff in the republic of moldova , assisting voluntary transfers to member states and providing useful relevant information to asylum seekers arriving from ukraine; calls on the commission to improve its reaction capacity to such situations and allocate in time the necessary resources to respond to such events;


### 7. regrets the fact that in 2021 , the commitment appropriations and the payment appropriations are low 83.48% and 77.01%; ### 7. notes the fact that in 2021 , the commitment appropriations and the payment appropriations levels were 97% and 91% respectively;


### 9. recalls with concern the court’s finding that in 2020 , the office had 16 vacant management posts , with 10 of those occupied on an acting basis for more than one year , thus being at odds with the union’s staff regulations , which limit the duration of temporary management appointments to one year; notes the office’s reply with regard to the reasons why in 2021 the recruitment of managers was not prioritised , whereas such reasons include practical limitations caused by the covid-19 pandemic , new migration and asylum crises , two structural reorganisations of the office , the need to ensure business continuity , with a focus on filling other non-managerial posts; highlights , however , that acting managers occupy two posts in the office’s establishment plan , situation that could lead to inefficiency issues as well as to impaired leadership and strategic continuity; further notes the statement of the office’s executive director (ed) during the hearing in the european parliament on 30 november 2022 , whereby at that date 7 managers , including 3 senior management members were still on ad interim positions , 2 of whom have been for more than 1 year in their function; takes note from the office’s replies that two senior management positions were under recruitment by the end of 2022 , while the third position was foreseen to be published in the following months; reiterates its calls on the office to launch and/or finalise without delay the recruitment procedures that are necessary in order to fill in all its managerial posts , in full compliance with the applicable legal requirements and to keep the discharge authority informed regarding the progress made in this matter; ### 9. recalls with concern the court’s finding that in 2020 , the office had 16 vacant management posts , with 10 of those occupied on an acting basis for more than one year , thus being at odds with the union’s staff regulations , which limit the duration of temporary management appointments to one year; notes the office’s reply with regard to the reasons why in 2021 the recruitment of managers was not prioritised , whereas such reasons include practical limitations caused by the covid-19 pandemic , new migration and asylum crises , two structural reorganisations of the office , the need to ensure business continuity , with a focus on filling other non-managerial posts; highlights , however , that acting managers occupy two posts in the office’s establishment plan , situation that could lead to inefficiency issues as well as to impaired leadership and strategic continuity; further notes the statement of the office’s executive director (ed) during the hearing in the european parliament on 30 november 2022 , whereby at that date 7 managers , including 3 senior management members were still on ad interim positions , 2 of whom have been for more than 1 year in their function; takes note from the office’s replies that two senior management positions were under recruitment by the end of 2022 , while the third position was foreseen to be published in the following months; notes that on january 18th 2023 , the executive director decided not to renew the temporary management posts , which expired after one year and discontinued those that had been in place for longer than a year; reiterates its calls on the office to launch and/or finalise without delay the recruitment procedures that are necessary in order to fill in all its managerial posts , in full compliance with the applicable legal requirements and to keep the discharge authority informed regarding the progress made in this matter;


### 11. notes that the office has put in place a policy on protecting the dignity of the person and preventing psychological and sexual harassment; welcomes the office’s organisation of awareness raising campaigns on these issues and the nomination of confidential counsellors in 2021; notes that in 2021 , the office received four complaints on alleged psychological harassment , one of which was withdrawn; notes that the other three complaints were object of a preliminary assessment carried out with support from an external law firm , that led to the conclusion that no prima-facie evidence of harassment was found , thus no further measures were deemed necessary by the office; calls on the office to provide the discharge authority with the typology of cases and the criteria based on which it decides to ask for the support of an external law firm , given that the office has its own legal services unit; ### 11. notes that the office has put in place a policy on protecting the dignity of the person and preventing psychological and sexual harassment; welcomes the office’s organisation of awareness raising campaigns on these issues and the nomination of confidential counsellors in 2021; notes that the office received four complaints on alleged psychological harassment , one of which was withdrawn; notes that the other three complaints were object of a preliminary assessment carried out with support from an external law firm , that led to the conclusion that no prima-facie evidence of harassment was found , thus no further measures were deemed necessary by the office; calls on the office to provide the discharge authority with the typology of cases and the criteria based on which it decides to ask for the support of an external law firm , given that the office has its own legal services unit;


### 22. notes that , following receipt of a report of the european anti-fraud office at the end of 2018 , which was extensively covered in the discharge report for 2018 , the office initiated three disciplinary procedures in 2019 , with two of them having been concluded and one still ongoing; calls on the office to inform the discharge authority of the completion of the latter procedure; ### 22. notes that , following receipt of a report of the european anti-fraud office at the end of 2018 , which was extensively covered in the discharge report for 2018 , the office initiated three disciplinary procedures in 2019; notes that all three disciplinary procedures have been completed; calls on the office to provide the discharge authority with further details about the outcomes to these procedures;


### 1. welcomes the fact that the court of auditors (the ‘court’) has declared the transactions underlying the annual accounts of the european monitoring centre for drugs and drug addiction (the 'centre’) for the financial year 2021 to be legal and regular in all material respects; notes that its budget in 2021 increased from eur 23 million to eur 25 million (+8.69%) while its staff increased from 102 to 110 (+7.84%); ### 1. welcomes the fact that the court of auditors (the ‘court’) has declared the transactions underlying the annual accounts of the european monitoring centre for drugs and drug addiction (the 'centre’) for the financial year 2021 to be legal and regular in all material respects; notes , according to its statement of revenue and expenditure that its budget in 2021 increased to eur 18.9 million , representing an increase of 5.13% compared to 2020 , while its staff increased from 102 to 110 (+7.84%);


### 3. is concerned about the ongoing observation from the court in the use of external staff and interim workers; calls on the centre to rely as much as possible on permanent staff and calls once again on the commission to ensure appropriate human resources allocations for this purpose; welcomes the proposal made by the commission to transform the centre in an eu drugs agency and calls for an appropriate allocation of resources to achieve this aim; ### 3. notes the court observation with regards to the extended use of external staff and interim workers; calls on the centre to rely as much as possible on permanent staff; welcomes that since the end of 2021 , the centre is no longer employing interim staff; calls once again on the commission to ensure appropriate human resources allocations for this purpose; welcomes the proposal made by the commission to transform the centre in an eu drugs agency and calls for an appropriate allocation of resources to achieve this aim;


### 1. welcomes the fact that the court of auditors (‘the court’) has declared the transactions underlying the annuals accounts of the european union agency for law enforcement cooperation (europol) for the financial year 2021 to be legal and regular in all material respects; recalls that the budget of the agency increased in 2021 from eur 183 to 210 million (+14 ,75%) , while members of staff increased from 84 to 95 (+10 ,74%) within the same period; ### 1. welcomes the fact that the court of auditors (‘the court’) has declared the transactions underlying the annuals accounts of the european union agency for law enforcement cooperation (europol) for the financial year 2021 to be legal and regular in all material respects; recalls that , according to its statement of revenue and expenditure , the budget of the agency increased in 2021 to eur 178.3 million (+12 ,41%) , while members of staff increased from 884 to 979 (+10 ,75%) within the same period;


### 2. regrets the reported weaknesses in management and control systems , namely two cases of potential conflict of interest situation in relation to a senior manager taking up a job elsewhere , when europol did not issue its decision within the deadline and thus effectively authorised the person concerned to take up the new job without any restrictions and in contravention of article 16 of the staff regulations; ### 2. takes note of the reported observations with respect to the functioning of management and control systems , namely the assessment of two cases of a potential conflict of interests in relation to one senior manager taking up a job elsewhere; is concerned that in the case reviewed , the court found that europol did not issue its decision within the timeline set in article 16 of the staff regulations and thus effectively authorised the person concerned to take up the new job without any restrictions in contravention of the above-mentioned article; notes europol's reply acknowledging the observation and taking action to adapt its procedures in order to respect the deadlines set by the staff regulations; further notes that europol conducted an ex-post assessment which confirmed that it was not exposed to a conflict of interest situation; welcomes the fact that europol is one of nine eu decentralised agencies having specific provisions covering the risk of 'revolving doors' situations in relation to the members of its management board;


### 3. regrets that the observation from the court stressing that late payments were issued by the agency in 33% of the cases in 2020 is still ongoing; expresses concern that , according to the court , similar levels of delays were observed in previous years; shares the opinion by the court that this recurrent weaknesses exposes europol to reputational risks; requests the agency to increase its efforts to address all the observations from the court; ### 3. notes with concern that the observation from the court stressing that late payments were issued by the agency in 33% of the cases in 2020 is still ongoing; expresses concern that , according to the court , similar levels of delays were observed in previous years; underlines that such recurrent weaknesses expose europol to reputational risks; welcomes the actions taken by europol in addressing this situation and notes that in 2021 payment delays were reduced to 8%; calls on the agency to continue its efforts to address all the observations from the court;


### 4. notes that on 16 september 2022 , the edps requested that the court of justice of the european union annul two provisions of the revised europol regulation , namely articles 74a and 74b , as they seriously undermine legal certainty for individuals’ personal data and threaten the independence of the edps; reminds that articles 74a and 74b have the effect of legalising retroactively europol’s practice of processing large volumes of individuals’ personal data with no established link to criminal activity , which the edps found to be in breach of europol’s regulation; ### 4. notes that on 16 september 2022 , the edps requested that the court of justice of the european union annul two provisions of the amended europol regulation , namely articles 74a and 74b , arguing that they seriously undermine legal certainty for individuals’ personal data and threaten the independence of the edps; underlines the fact that europol has no control over the legality of articles in the regulation detailing its mandate and prerogatives; highlights that this responsibility falls to the co-legislators and the court , when certain provisions are challenged; takes further note that no request was made to apply the articles in cause and that all contributions from before the entry into force of the amended europol regulation have meanwhile been assigned with a data subject category (dsc);


### 5. is concerned about the enhanced and non-transparent cooperation between europol and frontex; reminds the reports about frontex’s pedra program ‘processing of personal data for risk analysis' , which allows frontex border guards to collect sensitive personal data from migrants and asylum seekers to process and share it with europol and security agencies of member states , and to scan social media profiles; requests that cooperation among jha agency is fully transparent and accountability ensured; calls on the agency to take measures to ensure full compliance with eu transparency rules as well as with fundamental rights and data protection standards; ### 5. calls on the agency to take measures to ensure full compliance with eu transparency rules as well as with fundamental rights and data protection standards; further calls on europol to ensure that its cooperation with other jha agencies and other partners is fully transparent and accountability ensured; welcomes the swift appointment of the europol fundamental rights officer , position which was introduced with the amendments to the europol regulation that entered into force on 28 june 2022;


### 6. is concerned about the individual complaints introduced against europol for access to personal data and the lack of follow up done by the agency to those requests , conducing to an order by edps; is extremely concerned by the deletion of those data by the agency without allowing the data subject to access in spite of edps decision; ### 6. notes with concern one individual complaint to the edps , introduced against europol for the refusal to grant access to personal data; takes note that the edps issued a decision instructing europol to comply with the data subject request two years after the complaint was introduced; further notes that europol requested a review by the edps of its decision; highlights that by january 2023 the edps had not yet issued a final decision on the matter; calls on europol to report to the discharge authority about the progress of this situation and to fully comply with its obligations concerning the protection of personal data;


### 7. recommends the committee on budgetary control to postpone granting the discharge in respect of the implementation of the agency’s budget for the financial year 2021 , until the court of justice of the european union delivers its judgement; ### deleted


### 1. welcomes the fact that the court of auditors (the ‘court’) has declared the transactions underlying the annual accounts of the european union agency for the operational management of large-scale it systems in the area of freedom , security and justice (eu-lisa) for the financial year 2021 to be legal and regular in all material respects with exception of the qualified opinion on the legality and regularity of the payments underlying the accounts; notes that its budget in 2021 increased from eur 256 million to eur 264 million (+3.12%) while its staff increased from 274 to 310 (+13.13%); ### 1. welcomes the fact that the court of auditors (the ‘court’) has declared the transactions underlying the annual accounts of the european union agency for the operational management of large-scale it systems in the area of freedom , security and justice (eu-lisa) for the financial year 2021 to be legal and regular in all material respects with exception of the qualified opinion on the legality and regularity of the payments underlying the accounts; notes that its budget in 2021 decreased to eur 216 million (-9.83% compared to 2020) while its staff increased from 274 to 310 (+13.13%);


### 2. regrets the fact that the court issued a qualified audit opinion with respect to the legality and regularity of the payments underlying the accounts of eu-lisa both for 2020 and for 2021; notes the court’s explanation that the qualified opinion was issued in relation to six payments that were considered not compliant to the provisions of framework contracts , and other payments identified outside the initial sample affected by the same non-compliance , amounting in total to eur 18.11 million in 2021 , representing 6 ,2 % of the total payment appropriations available in 2021; ### 2. regrets the fact that the court issued a qualified audit opinion with respect to the legality and regularity of the payments underlying the accounts of eu-lisa both for 2020 and for 2021; notes the court’s explanation that the qualified opinion was issued in relation to six payments that were considered not compliant to the provisions of framework contracts , and other payments identified outside the initial sample affected by the same non-compliance , amounting in total to eur 18.11 million in 2021 , representing 6 ,2 % of the total payment appropriations available in 2021; notes from eu-lisa's reply that compliance in this area is affected by several factors linked to budgetary planning , the sourcing model , managing contractual evolutions , as well as understaffing , restricting the possibility of the agency to limit the scope , duration and value of contracts;


### 3. notes that the eu-lisa signed a specific contract of €40 million to implement a framework contract related to large-scale it systems , without specifying the details of the services acquired and with an extended duration; highlights the repeated concerns by the court about the risk associated with the practice of giving resources to eu-lisa before the adoption of legislation; ### 3. notes that the eu-lisa signed a specific contract of €40 million to implement a framework contract related to large-scale it systems , without specifying the details of the services acquired and with an extended duration; highlights the repeated concerns by the court about the risk associated with the lack of coordination between the allocation of resources and the adoption of relevant legislation; underlines that repeated delays in the adoption of legislation concerning the development and implementation of the systems managed by eu-lisa , rapid technological evolutions , as well as the overall uncertainty regarding the timeframe given to the agency to implement new legislation further restrict the eu-lisa's ability to establish more specific details within the contracts it concludes , while ensuring business continuity and the optimal functioning of the it systems managed; underlines that eu-lisa must take the necessary preparedness measures to ensure no delays on its part in the implementation of new relevant legislation , once adopted; calls on the commission to better coordinate the allocation of resources to eu-lisa with the adoption of relevant legislative acts; calls on eu-lisa , the court and the commission to explore possible solutions towards enhancing procurement flexibility in order to better reflect challenges posed by rapid technological evolutions and the transversal operation of systems managed by eu-lisa;


### 4. is concerned that eu-lisa amended the value of three contracts , two in 2021 and one 2019 , which increased the maximum amount of the contracts by 50 % (€70.4 million , €20 million and €40 million respectively); shares the opinion by the court that eu-lisa should improve the contracts management to ensure that specific contracts are always aligned with the framework contracts; ### 4. is concerned that eu-lisa amended the value of three contracts , two in 2021 and one 2019 , which increased the maximum amount of the contracts by 50 % (€70.4 million , €20 million and €40 million respectively); notes the opinion of the court and calls on eu-lisa to improve its contract management in order to ensure that specific contracts are always aligned with the framework contracts; takes note of eu-lisa's reply that the increase of volume was triggered by changes in the legislation which required eu-lisa to source a higher volume of identical supplies and services initially tendered for; further takes note that the initial project and its evolutions are to be considered in the light of the ever-evolving nature of each large-scale it system managed by eu-lisa; highlights that all contractual prices as well as the terms and conditions were left unchanged;


### 5. notes the court’ ongoing observations from 2018 , 2019 and 2020 on the budgetary management; regrets that the rate of carry-overs remain substantial compared to the total budget; ### 5. notes the court’ ongoing observations from 2018 , 2019 and 2020 on the budgetary management; takes note that the rate of carry-overs remain substantial compared to the total budget; welcomes that in 2021 no non-automatic carry-overs were performed; acknowledges eu-lisa's reply that carry-overs mainly related to contracting external support service providers , to address systematic understaffing following the assignment of new tasks to eu-lisa , over timeframes that did not align with the calendar year , but with the necessary duration of the services provided; calls on the commission to improve coordination between the allocation of new tasks and resources in order to address these issues;


### 6. regrets that several observations from the court from previous years are still ongoing; calls on the agency to follow the observations from the court and to step up efforts to implement corrective measures to address them; recalls that the european parliament can use its power not to grant discharge in case recommendations would not effectively be followed up; ### 6. regrets that several observations from the court from previous years are still ongoing; calls on the agency to effectively follow the observations from the court and to step up efforts to implement corrective measures to address them; further calls on eu-lisa to report to the discharge authority about the progress made in this regard;


### 20. notes that at the end of 2021 the implementation rate of audit recommendations was 77% (24 recommendations implemented and 37 recommendations due); notes that in total 32 recommendations were open at the end of 2021 out of which none were ‘critical’; notes with concern that 7 recommendations were past the due date , meaning that the implementation of the recommendation was ongoing though the deadline for implementation had lapsed; calls on the agency to implement the outstanding recommendations without further delay and to report to the discharge authority about the progress made; calls on the agency to provide the discharge authority with the olaf report oc-2020-0441-a2; further calls on the agency to provide the discharge authority with a report on the implementation of the olaf recommendations; ### 20. notes that at the end of 2021 the implementation rate of audit recommendations was 77% (24 recommendations implemented and 37 recommendations due); notes that in total 32 recommendations were open at the end of 2021 out of which none were ‘critical’; notes with concern that 7 recommendations were past the due date , meaning that the implementation of the recommendation was ongoing though the deadline for implementation had lapsed; calls on the agency to implement the outstanding recommendations without further delay and to report to the discharge authority about the progress made; considers that the findings of the olaf report oc-2020-0441-a2 should be made available to the discharge authority; further calls on the agency to provide the discharge authority with a report on the implementation of the olaf recommendations;


### 1. welcomes the fact that the court of auditors (‘the court’) has declared the transactions underlying the annuals accounts of the european union agency for fundamental rights (fra) for the financial year 2021 to be legal and regular in all material respects; highlights that the budget for 2021 was 33 million eur , but in reality this means 23 920 698 eur budget as the court report counts in the total payment appropriations available during the financial year; reiterates its concern that the fra continues to suffer from financial and staff resources constraints; ### 1. welcomes the fact that the court of auditors (‘the court’) has declared the transactions underlying the annuals accounts of the european union agency for fundamental rights (fra) for the financial year 2021 to be legal and regular in all material respects; highlights that the budget for 2021 was 33 million eur , but in reality this means 23 920 698 eur budget as the court report counts in the total payment appropriations available during the financial year; takes note that the fra continues to suffer from financial and staff resources constraints;


### 2. notes that , according to the court´s report , the agency carried over eur 7 million (27%) of 2021 commitment appropriations to 2022 , 96% of which related to operational activities; notes with concern the court’s renewed opinion that the high level of carry overs is indicative of structural issues in the agency’s implementation of the budget and contradict the budgetary principle of annuality; notes that this is a recurring issue; acknowledges the agency’s reply that the high carry overs mainly reflect the nature of the agency’s core business including activities that span several months or even extending beyond the end of year; welcomes the agency’s efforts to improve its budget planning by establishing a monitoring tool on planned carry overs from one year to the next; calls on the agency to keep monitoring its level of carry overs and improve its implementation cycles; ### 2. notes that , according to the court´s report , the agency carried over eur 7 million (27%) of 2021 commitment appropriations to 2022 , 96% of which related to operational activities; highlights the court’s renewed opinion that the high level of carry overs is indicative of structural issues in the agency’s implementation of the budget and contradict the budgetary principle of annuality; notes that this is a recurring issue; acknowledges the agency’s reply that the high carry overs mainly reflect the nature of the agency’s core business including activities that span several months or even extending beyond the end of year and that the level of the agency’s outturn is above 99%; welcomes the agency’s efforts to improve its budget planning by establishing a monitoring tool on planned carry overs from one year to the next; calls on the agency to keep monitoring its level of carry overs and improve its implementation cycles;


### 3. deplores that fra’s establishment plan has not been increased since 2017; further deplores that the increase in workload and requests , particularly after the entry into force of the new mandate which introduced new activities in the areas of justice and police cooperation , was not accompanied with additional resources; ### 3. regrets that fra’s establishment plan has not been increased since 2017; highlights moreover that the increase in workload and requests , particularly after the entry into force of the new mandate which introduced new activities in the areas of justice and police cooperation , was not accompanied with additional resources;


### 4. notes that fra had carried over €7 million (27 %) of 2021 commitment appropriations to 2022; reiterates its regrets that the levels of carry-overs of committed appropriations for operating expenditure remained high; acknowledges the answer from fra emphasizing that these carry-overs mainly reflect the nature of fra’s core activities that include the financing of studies and other activities that span several months and eventually beyond year-end; welcomes the concrete actions that fra has established to improve its budget planning and its implementation cycles; ### 4. notes that fra had carried over €7 million (27 %) of 2021 commitment appropriations to 2022; reiterates its regrets that the levels of carry-overs of committed appropriations for operating expenditure remained high; acknowledges the answer from fra emphasizing that these carry-overs mainly reflect the nature of fra’s core activities that include the financing of studies and other activities that span several months and eventually beyond year-end; welcomes the concrete actions that fra has established to improve its budget planning and its implementation cycles; calls on fra to report to the discharge authority about the progress registered in this matter;


### 5. welcomes the cooperation with other eu agencies , bodies and civil society in order to ensure there is compliance with fundamental rights; notes that fra contributed to a total of around 60 activities in the jha area. ### 5. welcomes the cooperation with other eu agencies , bodies and civil society in order to ensure there is compliance with fundamental rights; highlights , in this regard , the important role played by the fra in the training and operationalisation of the fundamental rights monitors within the european border and coast guard agency (frontex); notes that fra contributed to a total of around 60 activities in the jha area;


### 20. notes that the business continuity plan remained active in 2021 , and the agency conducted all its meetings and events virtually; regrets that , as a consequence , out of a total of 29 planned training activities , only 13 actually took place , using online solutions , representing a low implementation rate of 45%; further notes that , to facilitate the decision-making process in the absence of in-person meetings , a series of management board decisions were taken in the form of written procedures; observes that , with regard to recruitment , the agency made use of videoconferencing technologies for candidate interviews; ### 20. notes that the business continuity plan remained active in 2021 , and the agency conducted all its meetings and events virtually; underlines that , as a consequence , out of a total of 29 planned training activities , only 13 actually took place , using online solutions , representing a low implementation rate of 45%; further notes that , to facilitate the decision-making process in the absence of in-person meetings , a series of management board decisions were taken in the form of written procedures; observes that , with regard to recruitment , the agency made use of videoconferencing technologies for candidate interviews;


### 1. welcomes the fact that the court of auditors (the ‘court’) has declared the transactions underlying the annual accounts of the european border and coast guard agency (‘frontex’ or the ‘agency’) for the financial year 2021 to be legal and regular in all material aspects; notes that the budget of the agency increased from eur 495 million in 2020 to eur 741 million (+ 50 %) in 2021 and that the agency's staff was increased from 1 234 to 1 554 (+ 26 %); ### 1. welcomes the fact that the court of auditors (the ‘court’) has declared the transactions underlying the annual accounts of the european border and coast guard agency (‘frontex’ or the ‘agency’) for the financial year 2021 to be legal and regular in all material aspects; notes that , according to its statement of revenue and expenditure the budget of the agency increased to eur 535.2 million (+ 46.87 %) in 2021 and that the agency's staff was increased from 1 234 to 1 554 (+ 26 %);


### 2. stresses that frontex is by large the agency that received more significant budget increases in the last years; recalls that the agency budget has skyrocketed from €118 million in 2011 to €741 million in 2021 , and to an annual average of €900 million for the 2021-2027 period; ### 2. underlines that frontex is the largest eu decentralised agency and that it has received the most significant budget increases over the last years , bringing it to €535.2 million in 2021; further notes that the budgetary allocation is planned to grow to an annual average of €900 million for the 2021-2027 period; recalls the great importance and responsibility of the agency in fully delivering the implementation of its mandate;


### 3. notes the court’s observation concerning weaknesses in recruitment procedures , which undermine the principles of transparency and equal treatment of the candidates; notes the serious internal control weaknesses in the agency’ delegation process , ex-ante controls and procurement procedures; deplores the many payment delays; ### 3. notes the court’s observation concerning weaknesses in recruitment procedures , which undermine the principles of transparency and equal treatment of the candidates; notes the serious internal control weaknesses in the agency’ delegation process , ex-ante controls and procurement procedures; deplores the many payment delays; takes note of the agency's acknowledgement of the problems; highlights that the agency is currently undergoing a transition process , following the resignation of its former executive director , in light of an olaf investigation into the mismanagement of the agency; takes note that the agency adopted more clear instructions to the selection committee members in order to ensure more consistent assessment and more transparency in its recruitment procedures in january 2022; notes that issues concerning the delegation process were corrected in 2022 with the delegation and sub-delegation of powers signed for all authorising officers; further acknowledges that the agency is taking action to tackle the issue of late payments and that reminders are sent to authorising officers responsible for the delayed payments; calls on the agency to continue addressing these issues and to report on the progress achieved to the discharge authority;