### member states shall ensure that the competent judicial authorities , on the application of the injured party , order the infringer who knew or ought to have known that he or she was engaging in unlawful acquisition , disclosure or use of a trade secret , to pay the trade secret holder damages commensurate to the actual prejudice suffered . ### member states shall ensure that the competent judicial authorities , on the application of the injured party , order the infringer who knew or ought to have known that he or she was engaging in unlawful acquisition , disclosure or use of a trade secret , to pay the trade secret holder damages commensurate to the actual prejudice suffered . in accordance with their national law and practice , member states may restrict the liability for damages of employees towards their employers for the unlawful acquisition , use or disclosure of a trade secret of the employer . this option also applies when unlawful acquisition , use and disclosure of trade secrets occurs after the employment of an employee has terminated .


### ‘ infringer’ means any natural or legal person who has unlawfully acquired , used or disclosed trade secrets ; ### ‘ infringer’ means any market operator who , either directly or through a third party , has gained access to a specific trade secret and has used it or disclosed it to the commercial detriment of the secret’s holder .


### the use or disclosure of a trade secret shall be considered unlawful whenever carried out , without the consent of the trade secret holder , intentionally or with gross negligence , by a person who is found to meet any of the following conditions : ### unauthorised disclosure of a trade secret take place where , without the consent of its holder , a legal or natural person who has had access to trade documentation belonging to the firm or to other proprietary sources intentionally or as a result of gross negligence :


### breach or inducement to breach a confidentiality agreement or any other duty to maintain secrecy ; ### breach or inducement to breach an agreement or duty to maintain confidentiality ;


### the acquisition of a trade secret without the consent of the trade secret holder shall be considered unlawful whenever carried out intentionally or with gross negligence by : ### the acquisition of a trade secret without the consent of its holder shall be considered unlawful where there is :


### unauthorised access to or copy of any documents , objects , materials , substances or electronic files , lawfully under the control of the trade secret holder , containing the trade secret or from which the trade secret can be deduced ; ### unlawful access to or copy of any documents , objects , materials , substances and electronic files under the legally established control of the trade secret holder ;


### exercise of the right of workers representatives to information and consultation in accordance with union and national law and / or practices ; ### workers representatives ' acquisition and disclosure of trade secrets in the context of the exercise of the rights of workers representatives to information , consultation and participation in accordance with union and national law and practices , and the collective defence of the interests of workers and employers , including co - determination . '


### for the purpose of revealing an applicant’s misconduct , wrongdoing or illegal activity , provided that the alleged acquisition , use or disclosure of the trade secret was necessary for such revelation and that the respondent acted in the public interest ; ### the purpose of revealing an applicant’s misconduct , wrongdoing or illegal activity to an appropriate authority , provided that the accused , without being negligent , could assume that the alleged acquisition , use or disclosure of the trade secret was necessary for such revelation ;


### member states shall ensure that in deciding on the granting or rejecting of the application and assessing its proportionality , the competent judicial authorities shall be required to take into account the value of the trade secret , the measures taken to protect the trade secret , the conduct of the respondent in acquiring , disclosing or using of the trade secret , the impact of the unlawful disclosure or use of the trade secret , the legitimate interests of the parties and the impact which the granting or rejection of the measures could have on the parties , the legitimate interests of third parties , the public interest and the safeguard of fundamental rights , including freedom of expression and information . ### member states shall ensure that in deciding on the granting or rejecting of the application and assessing its proportionality , the competent judicial authorities shall be required to take into account the value of the trade secret , the measures taken to protect the trade secret , the intentionality of the respondent in acquiring , disclosing or using of the trade secret , the conduct of the respondent in acquiring , disclosing or using of the trade secret , the impact of the unlawful disclosure or use of the trade secret , the legitimate interests of the parties and the impact which the granting or rejection of the measures could have on the parties , the legitimate interests of third parties , the public interest and the safeguard of fundamental rights , including freedom of expression and information .


### to restrict access to hearings , when trade secrets may be disclosed , and their corresponding records or transcript . in exceptional circumstances , and subject to appropriate justification , the competent judicial authorities may restrict the parties’ access to those hearings and order them to be carried out only in the presence of the legal representatives of the parties and authorised experts subject to the confidentiality obligation referred to in paragraph 1 ; ### to restrict access to hearings , when trade secrets may be disclosed , and their corresponding records or transcript , provided that each party , its respective lawyer or representative to the proceedings and court officials are given full access to such hearing , records or transcript ;


### has been subject to reasonable steps under the circumstances , by the person lawfully in control of the information , to keep it secret . ### has been subject to official registration , with a general description of what it covers and other steps required to keep it secret , by the person legally established as being in control of the information .


### ' trade secret holder ' means any natural or legal person lawfully controlling a trade secret ; ### ' trade secret holder ' means any registered market operator legally established as being in control of a trade secret ;


### avoids the creation of barriers to legitimate trade in the internal market . ### avoids the creation of barriers to legitimate trade , competition and worker ' s mobility in the internal market ;


### unauthorised access to or copy of any documents , objects , materials , substances or electronic files , lawfully under the control of the trade secret holder , containing the trade secret or from which the trade secret can be deduced ; ### unauthorised access to or copy of any trade secret , whether in the form of documents , objects , materials , substances or electronic files , lawfully under the control of the trade secret holder , containing the trade secret or from which the trade secret can be deduced ;


### exercise of the right of workers representatives to information and consultation in accordance with union and national law and / or practices ; ### exercise of the right of workers or workers ' representatives to information , consultation and participation in accordance with union and national law and / or practices ;


### when deciding on the granting or the rejection of the application referred to in paragraph 2 and assessing its proportionality , the competent judicial authorities shall take into account the legitimate interests of the parties and , where appropriate of third parties , and any potential harm for either of the parties , and where appropriate third parties , resulting from the granting or rejection of such application . ### when deciding on the granting or the rejection of measures for preservation of a trade secret and assessing their proportionality , the competent judicial authorities shall take into account the need to guarantee the right to an effective remedy and to a fair trial , the legitimate interests of the parties and , where appropriate of third parties , and any potential harm for either of the parties , and where appropriate third parties , resulting from the granting or rejection of such application .


### it is appropriate to provide for rules at union level to approximate the national legislative systems so as to ensure a sufficient and consistent level of redress across the internal market in case of unlawful acquisition , use or disclosure of a trade secret . for this purpose , it is important to establish a homogenous definition of a trade secret without restricting the subject matter to be protected against misappropriation . such definition should therefore be constructed as to cover business information , technological information and know - how where there is both a legitimate interest in keeping confidential and a legitimate expectation in the preservation of such confidentiality . by nature , such definition should exclude trivial information and should not extend to the knowledge and skills gained by employees in the normal course of their employment and which are known among or accessible to persons within the circles that normally deal with the kind of information in question . ### it is appropriate to provide for rules at union level to approximate the national legislative systems so as to ensure a sufficient and consistent level of redress across the internal market in case of unlawful acquisition , use or disclosure of a trade secret . for this purpose , it is important to establish a homogenous definition of a trade secret . such definition should therefore be constructed as to cover business information and undisclosed know - how where there is a legitimate interest in keeping confidential , a commercial value of this information because it is kept confidential , and a legitimate expectation in the preservation of such confidentiality . by nature , such definition should exclude trivial information and should not extend to the knowledge and skills gained by employees in the normal course of their employment and which are known among or accessible to persons within the circles that normally deal with the kind of information in question and by competitors . the conditions establishing unlawful use or disclosure should not limit the use of acquired experience and know - how through honest practices for instance in the framework of a labour agreement or any other contractual relationship . this should ensure that labour mobility will not be endangered while at the same time ensuring adequate protection for trade secrets . this directive is without prejudice to the autonomy of the social partners and their right to enter into collective agreements in accordance with national law , traditions and practices and while respecting the provisions of the treaty .


### the use or disclosure of a trade secret shall be considered unlawful whenever carried out , without the consent of the trade secret holder , intentionally or with gross negligence , by a person who is found to meet any of the following conditions : ### the use or disclosure of a trade secret shall be considered unlawful whenever carried out , without the consent of the trade secret holder , intentionally and with the aim of acquiring an economical gain or of causing economic detriment to the trade secret holder , by a person who is found to meet any of the following conditions :


### observation , study , disassembly or test of a product or object that has been made available to the public or that it is lawfully in the possession of the acquirer of the information ; ### observation , study , disassembly or test of a product or object that has been made available to the public or that is lawfully in the possession of a natural person or market operator with access to independent technological discoveries and designs and goods manufactured on the basis thereof ;


### exercise of the right of workers representatives to information and consultation in accordance with union and national law and / or practices ; ### worker ' s representatives acquisition and disclosure of trade secrets in the context of the exercise of the rights of workers representatives to information , consultation and participation in accordance with union and national law and practices , and the collective defence of the interests of workers and employers , including co - determination ;


### when setting the damages , the competent judicial authorities shall take into account all appropriate factors , such as the negative economic consequences , including lost profits , which the injured party has suffered , any unfair profits made by the infringer and , in appropriate cases , elements other than economic factors , such as the moral prejudice caused to the trade secret holder by the unlawful acquisition , use or disclosure of the trade secret . ### when setting the damages , the competent judicial authorities shall take into account all appropriate factors , such as the negative economic consequences , including lost profits , which the injured party has suffered , any unfair profits made by the infringer and , in appropriate cases , elements other than economic factors .


### unauthorised access to or copy of any documents , objects , materials , substances or electronic files , lawfully under the control of the trade secret holder , containing the trade secret or from which the trade secret can be deduced ; ### unauthorised access to , copy or appropriation of any trade secret , whether in the form of documents , objects , materials , substances or electronic files , lawfully under the control of the trade secret holder , containing the trade secret or from which the trade secret can be deduced ;


### for the purpose of revealing an applicant’s misconduct , wrongdoing or illegal activity , provided that the alleged acquisition , use or disclosure of the trade secret was necessary for such revelation and that the respondent acted in the public interest ; ### the purpose of revealing an applicant’s misconduct , wrongdoing or illegal activity in an appropriate way , provided that the accused , without being negligent , could assume that the alleged acquisition , use or disclosure of the trade secret was necessary for such revelation ;


### no later than seven years after the date of transposition of this directive , an evaluation of this directive shall be carried out . the commission shall communicate the conclusions of the evaluation accompanied by its observations to the european parliament , the council and the european economic and social committee . ### no later than five years after the date of transposition of this directive , an evaluation of this directive shall be carried out . in particular , the expediency of this directive with regard to technological developments relating to autonomous and semi - autonomous vehicles should be assessed , and it should be examined whether the regime of liability of this directive takes into account the new technological conditions or whether a new strict liability offence should be introduced which is based solely on autonomous vehicles as a source of danger and at the same time involves no uncontrolled liability risks in order not to stand in the way of the use of new technologies . the commission shall communicate the conclusions of the evaluation , accompanied by its observations , to the european parliament , the council and the european economic and social committee , attaching , where necessary , a legislative proposal .


### member states shall ensure that insurance undertakings publish their policies in respect of their use of claims history statements when calculating premiums . ### member states shall ensure that insurance undertakings publish their policies in respect of their use of claims history statements when calculating premiums , in particular also in relation to the ‘ bonus - malus’ system they use .


### as part of the evaluation of the functioning of the directive , the european commission should monitor the application of the directive , taking into account the number of victims , the amount of outstanding claims due to delays in payments following cross - border insolvency cases , the level of minimum amounts of cover in member states , the amount of claims due to uninsured driving relating to cross - border traffic and the number of complaints regarding claims history statements ### as part of the evaluation of the functioning of the directive , the european commission should monitor the application of the directive , taking into account the number of victims , the amount of outstanding claims due to delays in payments following cross - border insolvency cases , the level of minimum amounts of cover in member states , the amount of claims due to uninsured driving relating to cross - border traffic and the number of complaints regarding claims history statements in the context of the evaluation of the functioning of directive 2009 / 103 / ec , the commission should also examine and assess whether , in the light of technological progress , including the increasing use of autonomous and semi - autonomous vehicles , it continues to serve its purpose of protecting the victims of road traffic accidents from the insolvency of insurers in accidents caused by vehicles .


### reflecting the importance of tackling climate change in line with the union ' s commitments to implement the paris agreement and the united nations sustainable development goals , this programme should contribute to mainstream climate actions and to the achievement of an overall target of 25 % of the union budget expenditures supporting climate objectives . relevant actions will be identified during the programme ' s preparation and implementation , and reassessed in the context of the relevant evaluations and review processes . ### reflecting the importance of tackling climate change in line with the union ' s commitments to implement the paris agreement and the united nations sustainable development goals , this programme should contribute to mainstream climate actions and to the achievement of an overall target of 30 % of the union budget expenditures supporting climate objectives . relevant actions will be identified during the programme ' s preparation and implementation , and reassessed in the context of the relevant evaluations and review processes .


### proposals shall be systematically screened to identify those actions raising complex or serious ethics issues and submit them to an ethics assessment . ethics screenings and assessments shall be carried out by the commission with the support of experts on defence ethics . the commission shall ensure the transparency of the ethics procedures as much as possible . ### proposals shall be systematically screened to identify those actions raising complex or serious ethics issues and submit them to an ethics assessment . ethics screenings and assessments shall be carried out by the commission with the support of experts on defence ethics , selected on a gender - balanced basis , whose list is public and updated regularly . these experts shall represent a diversity of opinions in the military , technology and civil protection fields . the commission shall ensure the transparency of the ethics procedures and the experts shall collectively publish an annual report on the ethical issues they had to debate and assess .


### all infrastructure , facilities , assets and resources used in actions financed under the fund shall be located on the territory of the union or associated countries . furthermore , when performing an eligible action , beneficiaries and their subcontractors shall cooperate only with legal entities established in the union or in an associated country and not controlled by non - associated third countries or non - associated third country entities . ### all infrastructure , facilities , assets and resources used in actions financed under the fund shall be located on the territory of the union or associated countries and shall not be subject to any control or restriction by a non - associated third country or by a non - associated third entity . furthermore , when performing an eligible action , beneficiaries and their subcontractors shall cooperate with legal entities established in the union or in an associated country and not controlled by non - associated third countries or non - associated third country entities .


### by derogation from paragraph 1 , an applicant established in the union or in an associated country and controlled by a non - associated third country or a non - associated third country entity may be eligible for funding if this is necessary for achieving the objectives of the action and provided that its participation will not put at risk the security interests of the union and its member states . in order to ensure protection of the security interests of the union and its member states , the call for proposals shall require the applicant to provide information demonstrating notably that : ### by derogation from paragraph 1 , an applicant established in the union or in an associated country and controlled by anon - associated third country or a non - associated third country entity may be eligible for funding if it has been proven that no provider can be found within the union and if this is necessary for achieving the objectives of the action and provided that its participation will not put at risk the security interests of the union and its member states . in order to ensure protection of the security interests of the union and its member states , the call for proposals shall require the applicant to provide information demonstrating notably that :


### unless otherwise provided for in the work programme referred to in article 27 , the action shall be undertaken in a cooperation of at least three legal entities which are established in at least three different member states and / or associated countries . at least three of these eligible entities established in at least two member states and / or associated countries shall not , during the whole implementation of the action , be effectively controlled , directly or indirectly , by the same entity , and shall not control each other . ### the action shall be undertaken in a cooperation within a consortium of at least three legal entities which are established in at least three different member states and / or associated countries . every consortium that includes legal entities from an associated country shall also include at least two legal entities from two different member states . at least three of these eligible entities established in at least two member states and / or associated countries shall not , during the whole implementation of the action , be controlled , directly or indirectly , by the same entity , and shall not control each other .


### the commission will take into account the other activities financed under the horizon europe framework programme in order to avoid unnecessary duplication and ensure the cross - fertilisation between civil and defence research . ### the commission will take into account the other activities financed under the horizon europe framework programme in order to avoid unnecessary duplication , ensure the cross - fertilisation and synergy between civil and defence research and ensure that horizon europe remains a purely civil research programme .


### applicants and their subcontractors shall be eligible for funding provided that they are established in the union or in an associated country , have their executive management structures in the union or in an associated country and are not controlled by a non - associated third country or by a non - associated third country entity . ### applicants and their subcontractors shall be eligible for funding provided that they are established in the union or in an associated country , have their executive management structures in the union or in an associated country and are not controlled by a non - associated third country .


### by derogation from paragraph 1 , an applicant established in the union or in an associated country and controlled by a non - associated third country or a non - associated third country entity may be eligible for funding if this is necessary for achieving the objectives of the action and provided that its participation will not put at risk the security interests of the union and its member states . in order to ensure protection of the security interests of the union and its member states , the call for proposals shall require the applicant to provide information demonstrating notably that : ### by derogation from paragraph 1 , an applicant established in the union or in an associated country and controlled by a non - associated third country or a non - associated third country entity shall be eligible for funding provided that guarantees approved by the member state in which it is established in accordance with its national procedure are made available to the commission . those guarantees may refer to the undertaking’s executive managements structure established in the union . if deemed appropriate by the member state in which the undertaking is established , those guarantees may also refer to specific governmental rights in the control over the undertaking . the guarantees shall provide assurances that the involvement in an action of such an undertaking would not contravene the security and defence interests of the union and its member states as established in the framework of the common foreign and security policy pursuant to title v of the teu , or the objectives set out in article 3 . the guarantees shall in particular substantiate that , for the purpose of the action , measures are in place to ensure that :


### the fund would contribute to the establishment of a strong , competitive and innovative defence industrial and technological base and go hand in hand with the union ' s initiatives towards a more integrated european defence market and in particular , the two directives6 on procurement and on eu transfers in the defence sector adopted in 2009 . _________________ 6 directive 2009 / 43 / ec of the european parliament and of the council , simplifying terms and conditions of transfers of defence - related products within the community , oj l 146 , 10 . 6 . 2009 , p . 1 ; directive 2009 / 81 / ec of the european parliament and of the council on the coordination of procedures for the award of certain works contracts , supply contracts and service contracts by contracting authorities or entities in the fields of defence and security , oj l 216 , 20 . 8 . 2009 , p . 76 . ### the fund would contribute to the establishment of a strong , integrated and innovative defence industrial and technological base , as well as to efficiency gains enabling the reduction of the overall defence spending in the union , while at the same time ensuring the necessary defence capabilities to perform the essential core tasks of collective defence , crisis management and cooperative security . the fund would go hand in hand with the union ' s initiatives towards a more integrated european defence market and in particular , the two directives6 on procurement and on eu transfers in the defence sector adopted in 2009 . _________________ 6 directive 2009 / 43 / ec of the european parliament and of the council , simplifying terms and conditions of transfers of defence - related products within the community , oj l 146 , 10 . 6 . 2009 , p . 1 ; directive 2009 / 81 / ec of the european parliament and of the council on the coordination of procedures for the award of certain works contracts , supply contracts and service contracts by contracting authorities or entities in the fields of defence and security , oj l 216 , 20 . 8 . 2009 , p . 76 .


### independent experts shall be union ' s citizens identified and selected on the basis of calls for expressions of interest addressed to relevant organisations such as ministries of defence and subordinated agencies , research institutes , universities , business associations or enterprises of the defence sector with a view to establishing a list of experts . by derogation from article [ 237 ] of the financial regulation , this list shall not be made public . ### independent experts shall be union ' s citizens identified and selected on the basis of calls for expressions of interest addressed to relevant organisations such as ministries of defence and subordinated agencies , research institutes , non - governmental organisations , universities , business associations or enterprises of the defence sector with a view to establishing a list of experts that is gender balanced . by derogation from article [ 237 ] of the financial regulation , this list shall not be made public .


### by derogation from the paragraph 3 beneficiaries and subcontractors involved in the action may use their assets , infrastructure , facilities and resources located or held on the territory of a non - associated third country if this is necessary for achieving the objectives of an action and provided that this will not put at risk the security of the union and its member states . under the same conditions , when performing an eligible action , beneficiaries and their subcontractors may cooperate with an entity established in a non - associated third country . the costs related to the use of such infrastructure , facilities , assets or resources and to such cooperation shall not be eligible under the fund . ### by derogation from the paragraph 3 beneficiaries and subcontractors involved in the action may use their assets , infrastructure , facilities and resources located or held on the territory of a non - associated third country should no competitive substitutes are readily available in the union provided that this will not put at risk the security of the union and its member states . furthermore , when performing an eligible action , beneficiaries and their subcontractors may cooperate with an entity established in a non - associated third country . such cooperation shall be consistent with the objectives set out in article 3 . the costs related to the use of such infrastructure , facilities , assets or resources and to such cooperation shall not be eligible under the fund .


### the interim evaluation of the fund shall be performed once there is sufficient information available about the implementation of the fund , but no later than four years after the start of the fund implementation . the interim evaluation report will include notably , an assessment of the governance of the fund , implementation rates , project award results including smes and mid - caps involvement and the degree of their cross - border participation , and funding granted in accordance with article [ 195 ] of the financial regulation by 31 july 2024 . the commission may submit proposals for any appropriate amendments to the present regulation . ### the interim evaluation of the fund shall be performed once there is sufficient information available about the implementation of the fund at the end of every financial year . the interim evaluation report will include notably , an assessment of the governance of the fund , implementation rates , project award results including smes and mid - caps involvement and the degree of their cross - border participation , information about exports of funded products or technologies , an evaluation of the increase in efficiency and in the elimination of unnecessary duplications , the state of conversion from military to civil production and funding granted in accordance with article [ 195 ] of the financial regulation by 31 july 2024 . the commission may submit proposals for any appropriate amendments to the present regulation .


### following an integrated approach and in order to contribute to the enhancement of the competitiveness and innovation capacity of the union ' s defence industry , a european defence fund should be established . the fund should aim at enhancing the competitiveness , innovation , efficiency and autonomy of the union ' s defence industry thereby contributing to the union ' s strategic autonomy by supporting the cross border cooperation between member states and between enterprises , research centres , national administrations , international organisations and universities , in the research phase and in the development phase of defence products and technologies . to achieve more innovative solutions and an open internal market , the fund should support the cross - border participation of defence small and medium sized enterprises and middle capitalisation companies . ### following an integrated approach and in order to contribute to the enhancement of the integration , efficiency gains and innovation capacity of the union ' s defence industry , a european defence fund should be established . the fund should aim at enhancing the competitiveness , innovation , efficiency and autonomy of the union ' s defence industry thereby contributing to the union ' s strategic autonomy in line with the political goals of the common foreign and security policy by supporting the cross border cooperation between member states and between enterprises , research centres , national administrations , international organisations and universities , in the research phase and in the development phase of defence products and technologies .


### following an integrated approach and in order to contribute to the enhancement of the competitiveness and innovation capacity of the union ' s defence industry , a european defence fund should be established . the fund should aim at enhancing the competitiveness , innovation , efficiency and autonomy of the union ' s defence industry thereby contributing to the union ' s strategic autonomy by supporting the cross border cooperation between member states and between enterprises , research centres , national administrations , international organisations and universities , in the research phase and in the development phase of defence products and technologies . to achieve more innovative solutions and an open internal market , the fund should support the cross - border participation of defence small and medium sized enterprises and middle capitalisation companies . ### following an integrated approach and in order to contribute to the enhancement of the competitiveness and innovation capacity of the union ' s defence industry , a european defence fund should be established . the fund should aim at enhancing the competitiveness , innovation , efficiency and autonomy of the union ' s defence industry thereby contributing to the union ' s strategic autonomy , the improvement of member states ' defence capabilities and the promotion of the union ' s security and defence interests as agreed in the framework of the common foreign and security policy by supporting the cross border cooperation between member states and between enterprises , research centres , national administrations , international organisations and universities , in the research phase and in the development phase of defence products and technologies . to achieve more innovative solutions and an open internal market , the fund should support the cross - border participation of defence small and medium sized enterprises and middle capitalisation companies and promote their inclusion in cross - border defence supply chains .


### the commission shall regularly monitor the implementation of the fund and annually report on the progress made . to this end , the commission shall put in place necessary monitoring arrangements . ### the commission shall regularly monitor and evaluate the implementation of the fund and annually report to the parliament and the council on the progress made . to this end , the commission shall put in place necessary monitoring arrangements .


### in case a development action supported by the fund is managed by a project manager appointed by member states or associated countries , the commission should inform the project manager prior to executing the payment to the recipient so that the project manager can ensure that the time - frames are respected by the recipients . under certain circumstances , the project manager could provide the commission with its observations on the progress of the action so that the commission can validate whether the conditions to proceed to the payment are fulfilled . ### in case a development action supported by the fund is managed by a project manager appointed by member states or associated countries , the commission should inform the project manager prior to executing the payment to the recipient so that the project manager can ensure that the time - frames are respected by the recipients . the project manager should provide the commission with its observations on the progress of the action so that the commission can validate whether the conditions to proceed to the payment are fulfilled .


### by derogation from paragraph 1 , an applicant established in the union or in an associated country and controlled by a non - associated third country or a non - associated third country entity may be eligible for funding if this is necessary for achieving the objectives of the action and provided that its participation will not put at risk the security interests of the union and its member states . in order to ensure protection of the security interests of the union and its member states , the call for proposals shall require the applicant to provide information demonstrating notably that : ### by derogation from paragraph 1 , an applicant or a subcontractor involved in the action , established in the union or in an associated country and controlled by a non - associated third country or a non - associated third country entity may constitute an eligible entity for funding and provided that its participation will not put at risk the security and defence interests of the union and its member states , or the objective set out in article 3 . in order to ensure protection of the security interests of the union and its member states , the call for proposals shall require the applicant to provide information to the commission demonstrating notably that :


### support collaborative research projects that could significantly boost the performance of future capabilities , aiming at maximising innovation and introducing new defence products and technologies , including disruptive ones ; ### support collaborative research projects that could significantly boost the performance of future capabilities , aiming at maximising innovation and integration , and introducing new defence products and technologies , including disruptive ones ;


### independent experts shall be union ' s citizens identified and selected on the basis of calls for expressions of interest addressed to relevant organisations such as ministries of defence and subordinated agencies , research institutes , universities , business associations or enterprises of the defence sector with a view to establishing a list of experts . by derogation from article [ 237 ] of the financial regulation , this list shall not be made public . ### independent experts shall be union ' s citizens identified and selected on the basis of calls for expressions of interest addressed to relevant organisations such as ministries of defence and subordinated agencies , research institutes , universities , non - governmental organisations , business associations or enterprises of the defence sector with a view to establishing a list of experts that is gender balanced .


### the commission shall be assisted by a committee within the meaning of regulation no 182 / 2011 . the european defence agency shall be invited as an observer to provide its views and expertise . the european external action service shall also be invited to assist . ### the commission shall be assisted by an expert committee selected transparently and with a balanced participation of defence experts from academia , research organisations , eu institutions including the european parliament and think tanks . the european defence agency shall be invited as a participant to provide its views and expertise . the european external action service shall also be invited to participate .


### where appropriate , indirect eligible costs beyond the flat rate of 25 % may be determined in accordance with the beneficiary ' s usual cost accounting practices on the basis of actual indirect costs provided that these cost accounting practices are accepted by national authorities under comparable funding schemes in accordance with article [ 185 ] of the financial regulation and communicated to the commission . ### as an alternative , indirect eligible costs beyond the flat rate of 25% may be determined in accordance with the beneficiary ' s usual cost accounting practices on the basis of actual indirect costs provided that these cost accounting practices are accepted by national authorities under comparable funding schemes in accordance with article [ 185 ] of the financial regulation and communicated to the commission .


### the general objective of the fund is to foster the competitiveness , efficiency and innovation capacity of the european defence industry , by supporting collaborative actions and cross - border cooperation between legal entities throughout the union , including smes and mid - caps as well as fostering the better exploitation of the industrial potential of innovation , research and technological development , at each stage of the industrial life cycle , thus contributing to the union strategic autonomy . the fund should also contribute to the freedom of action of the union and its autonomy , in particular in technological and industrial terms . ### the general objective of the fund is to enable the union to apply its competence to implement a common foreign and security policy , including the progressive framing of a common defence policy , to contribute to the strategic priorities under the cfsp / csdp framework , and to foster the inclusivity , integration , interoperability , competitiveness , efficiency and innovation capacity of the technological and industrial base of the european defence sector , by supporting collaborative actions and cross - border cooperation between legal entities throughout europe , including smes and mid - caps as well as fostering the better exploitation of the industrial potential of innovation , research and technological development , at each stage of the life cycle of a defence product or service . it is important that more concrete proposals are put forward on how to improve the cross - border defence market access of smes and mid - caps . the fund should also contribute to the union ' s security and defence interests , to the freedom of action of the union , to its strategic , technological and industrial autonomy , as well as to the development and improvement of more advanced member states ' defence capabilities . taking more responsibility for its own security will also serve nato .


### unless otherwise provided for in the work programme referred to in article 27 , the action shall be undertaken in a cooperation of at least three legal entities which are established in at least three different member states and / or associated countries . at least three of these eligible entities established in at least two member states and / or associated countries shall not , during the whole implementation of the action , be effectively controlled , directly or indirectly , by the same entity , and shall not control each other . ### unless otherwise provided for in the work programme referred to in article 27 , the action shall be undertaken in a cooperation of at least four legal entities which are established in at least three different member states and / or associated countries . at least four of these eligible entities established in at least two member states and / or associated countries shall not , during the whole implementation of the action , be effectively controlled , directly or indirectly , by the same entity , and shall not control each other . this rule shall not apply to actions in support of conversion from military to civil production .


### support collaborative development projects of defence products and technologies consistent with defence capability priorities commonly agreed by member states within the framework of the common foreign and security policy , thus contributing to greater efficiency of defence spending within the union , achieving greater economies of scale , reducing the risk of unnecessary duplication and as such reducing the fragmentation of defence products and technologies throughout the union . ultimately , the fund will lead to greater interoperability between member states ' capabilities . ### support collaborative development projects of defence products and technologies consistent with defence capability priorities commonly agreed by member states within the framework of the common foreign and security policy and in particular in the context of the cdp of the common security and defence policy , thus contributing to greater efficiency of defence spending within the union , achieving greater economies of scale , reducing the risk of unnecessary duplication and as such reducing the fragmentation of defence products and technologies throughout the union . ultimately , the fund will lead to greater interoperability between member states ' capabilities and the acquisition of european equipment by member states .


### the commission will take into account the other activities financed under the horizon europe framework programme in order to avoid unnecessary duplication and ensure the cross - fertilisation between civil and defence research . ### the commission will take into account the other activities financed under the horizon europe framework programme in order to avoid unnecessary duplication , ensure the cross - fertilisation and synergy between civil and defence research and ensure that horizon europe remains a purely civil research programme .


### as the objective of the fund is to support the competitiveness and innovation of the union defence industry by leveraging and complementing collaborative defence research and technology activities and de - risking the development phase of cooperative projects , actions related to the research and development of a defence product or technology should be eligible to benefit from it . this will also apply to the upgrade , including the interoperability thereof , of existing defence products and technologies . ### as the objective of the fund is to support the integration , efficiency and innovation and alleviating any potential negative effects of the integration of the union defence industry by leveraging and complementing collaborative defence research and technology activities and alleviating some of the risk of the development phase of cooperative projects , actions related to the research and development of a defence product or technology , as well as those aiming at conversion from military to civil production should be eligible to benefit from it . this will also apply to the upgrade , including the interoperability thereof , of existing defence products and technologies .


### the promotion of innovation and technological development in the union defence industry should take place in a manner coherent with the security and defence interests of the union . accordingly , the action ' s contribution to those interests and to the defence research and capability priorities commonly agreed by member states should serve as an award criterion . within the union , common defence research and capability shortfalls are identified in the common security and defence policy framework notably through overarching strategic research agenda and the capability development plan . other union processes such as the coordinated annual review on defence and the permanent structured cooperation will support the implementation of relevant priorities through identifying and taking forward opportunities for enhanced cooperation with a view to fulfilling the eu level of ambition on security and defence . where appropriate , regional and international priorities , including those in the north atlantic treaty organisation context , may also be taken into account if they are in line with union priorities and do not prevent any member state or an associated country from participating , while also taking into account that unnecessary duplication should be avoided . ### the promotion of innovation and technological development in the union defence industry should serve the security and defence interests of the union and the member states . taking into account the specific nature of the defence sector , any action in the field of defence industry should be closely coordinated and be coherent with the common foreign and security policy and its priorities . accordingly , the action ' s contribution to those interests and to the defence research and capability priorities commonly agreed by member states should serve as an award criterion . within the union , common defence research and capability shortfalls are identified in the common security and defence policy framework notably through the capability development mechanism . other union processes such as the coordinated annual review on defence and the permanent structured cooperation will support the implementation of relevant priorities through identifying and taking forward opportunities for enhanced cooperation with a view to fulfilling the eu level of ambition on security and defence . where appropriate , regional and international priorities , including those in the north atlantic treaty organisation context , should also be taken into account if they are in line with union priorities and do not prevent any member state or an associated country from participating , while also taking into account that unnecessary duplication should be avoided .


### the commission’s communication on stronger and smarter information systems for borders and security28 highlights the need to improve the interoperability of information systems as a long - term objective , as also identified by the european council and the council . the communication proposes to set up an expert group on information systems and interoperability to address the legal and technical feasibility of achieving interoperability of the information systems for borders and security . this group should assess the necessity and proportionality of establishing interoperability with the schengen information systems and the visa information systems , and examine if there is a need to revise the legal framework for law enforcement access to eurodac . _________________ 28 com 205 final ### the commission’s communication on stronger and smarter information systems for borders and security288 highlights the need to improve the interoperability of information systems as a long - term objective , as also identified by the european council and the council . the communication proposes to set up an expert group on information systems and interoperability to address the legal and technical feasibility of achieving interoperability of the information systems for borders and security . this group should assess the necessity and proportionality of establishing interoperability with the schengen information systems and the visa information systems , and examine if there is a need to revise the legal framework for law enforcement access to eurodac . such interoperability must always respect the balance between individual liberties and collective security . _________________ 28 com 205 final


### the costs incurred in connection with the establishment and operation of the central system and the communication infrastructure shall be borne by the general budget of the european union . ### the costs incurred in connection with the establishment and operation of the central system and the communication infrastructure shall be borne by the general budget of the european union , in accordance with the principles of sound financial management .


### assist with the control of illegal immigration to and secondary movements within the union and with the identification of illegally staying third - country nationals for determining the appropriate measures to be taken by member states , including removal and repatriation of persons residing without authorisation . ### assist with the control of illegal immigration to and secondary movements within the union and with the identification of illegally staying third - country nationals for determining the appropriate measures to be taken by member states , including removal and repatriation of third - country nationals residing without authorisation .


### in view of successfully preventing and monitoring unauthorised movements of third - country nationals or stateless persons who have no right to stay in the union , and of taking the necessary measures for successfully enforcing effective return and readmission to third countries in accordance with directive 2008 / 115 / ec35 and the right to protection of personal data , a period of five years should be considered a necessary period for the storage of fingerprint and facial data . _________________ 35 oj l 348 , 24 . 12 . 2008 , p . 98 ### in view of successfully preventing and monitoring unauthorised movements of third - country nationals or stateless persons who have no right to stay in the union , and of taking the necessary measures for returning third - country nationals and enforcing effective readmission to third countries in accordance with directive 2008 / 115 / ec35 and the right to protection of personal data , a period of five years should be considered a necessary period for the storage of fingerprint and facial data . _________________ 35 oj l 348 , 24 . 12 . 2008 , p . 98


### member states may introduce administrative sanctions , in accordance with their national law , for non - compliance with the fingerprinting process and capturing a facial image in accordance with paragraph 1 of this article . these sanctions shall be effective , proportionate and dissuasive . in this context , detention should only be used as a means of last resort in order to determine or verify a third - country national ' s identity . ### member states shall introduce administrative sanctions , in accordance with their national law , for non - compliance with the fingerprinting process and capturing a facial image in accordance with paragraph 1 of this article . these sanctions shall be effective , proportionate and dissuasive . in this context , detention should only be used as a means of last resort in order to determine or verify a third - country national ' s identity .


### this regulation lays down a financial envelope for the esf + . parts of this financial envelope should be used for actions to be implemented in direct and indirect management under the employment and social innovation and health strands . ### this regulation lays down a financial envelope for the esf + . it specifies the allocations for activities to be implemented under shared management and the allocations for actions to be implemented in direct and indirect management under the employment and social innovation and health strands .


### ethylene dichloride meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic in accordance with regulation no 1272 / 2008 and therefore is a carcinogen as defined in directive 2004 / 37 / ec . it is possible , on the basis of the available information , including scientific and technical data , to set a limit value for ethylene dichloride . the committee identified for ethylene dichloride the possibility of significant uptake through the skin . it is therefore appropriate to establish a limit value for ethylene dichloride in part a of annex iii and to set out a skin notation in part b of annex iii to directive 2004 / 37 / ec indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake . ### ethylene dichloride meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic in accordance with regulation no 1272 / 2008 and therefore is a carcinogen as defined in directive 2004 / 37 / ec . it is possible , on the basis of the available information , including scientific and technical data , to set a limit value for ethylene dichloride . scoel identified for ethylene dichloride the possibility of significant uptake through the skin . it is therefore appropriate to establish a limit value for ethylene dichloride in part a of annex iii and to set out a skin notation in part b of annex iii to that directive indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake .


### trichloroethylene meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic in accordance with regulation no 1272 / 2008 and therefore is a carcinogen as defined in directive 2004 / 37 / ec . it is possible , on the basis of available information , including scientific and technical data , to set limit values for trichloroethylene in relation to a reference period of eight hours and to a shorter reference period . the committee identified for this carcinogen the possibility of significant uptake through the skin . it is therefore appropriate to establish long - and short - term exposure limit values for trichloroethylene in part a of annex iii and to set out a skin notation in part b of annex iii to directive 2004 / 37 / ec indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake . in light of evolving scientific evidence , the limit values for this substance will be kept under particularly close review . ### trichloroethylene meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic in accordance with regulation no 1272 / 2008 and therefore is a carcinogen as defined in directive 2004 / 37 / ec . it is possible , on the basis of available information , including scientific and technical data , to set limit values for trichloroethylene in relation to a reference period of eight hours and to a shorter reference period . scoel identified for this carcinogen the possibility of significant uptake through the skin . it is therefore appropriate to establish long - and short - term exposure limit values for trichloroethylene in part a of annex iii and to set out a skin notation in part b of annex iii to that directive indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake . in light of evolving scientific evidence , the limit values for this substance will be kept under particularly close review .


### certain polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons mixtures containing benzo [ a ] pyrene meet the criteria for classification as carcinogenic in accordance with regulation no 1272 / 2008 and therefore are carcinogens as defined in directive 2004 / 37 / ec . the committee identified the possibility of significant uptake through the skin for these mixtures . it is therefore appropriate to set out a skin notation in part b of annex iii to directive 2004 / 37 / ec indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake . ### certain polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons mixtures , including those containing benzo [ a ] pyrene , meet the criteria for classification as carcinogenic in accordance with regulation no 1272 / 2008 and therefore are carcinogens as defined in directive 2004 / 37 / ec . the scoel identified the possibility of significant uptake through the skin for these mixtures . the acsh has agreed on the importance of introducing an occupational exposure limit value for pahs and has recommended to carry out the work to evaluate the scientific aspects with the view to proposing an occupational exposure limit value at some time in the future . it is therefore appropriate to set out a skin notation in part b of annex iii to directive 2004 / 37 / ec indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake and to carry out further investigations to set a limit value for benzo [ a ] pyrene in order better to protect workers from polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons mixtures .


### certain polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons mixtures containing benzo [ a ] pyrene meet the criteria for classification as carcinogenic in accordance with regulation no 1272 / 2008 and therefore are carcinogens as defined in directive 2004 / 37 / ec . the committee identified the possibility of significant uptake through the skin for these mixtures . it is therefore appropriate to set out a skin notation in part b of annex iii to directive 2004 / 37 / ec indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake . ### certain polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons mixtures containing benzo [ a ] pyrene meet the criteria for classification as carcinogenic in accordance with regulation no 1272 / 2008 and therefore are carcinogens as defined in directive 2004 / 37 / ec . scoel identified the possibility of significant uptake through the skin for these mixtures . it is therefore appropriate to set out a skin notation in part b of annex iii to that directive indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake .


### ethylene dibromide meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic in accordance with regulation no 1272 / 2008 and therefore is a carcinogen as defined in directive 2004 / 37 / ec . the committee concluded that that is not possible to derive a health - based exposure limit value for this non - threshold carcinogen and has recommended avoiding occupational exposure . the committee identified for ethylene dibromide the possibility of significant uptake through the skin . the advisory committee on safety and health at work has agreed on a practical limit value , on the basis of the available information , including scientific and technical data . it is therefore appropriate to establish a limit value for ethylene dibromide in part a of annex iii and to set out a skin notation in part b of annex iii to directive 2004 / 37 / ec indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake . ### ethylene dibromide meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic in accordance with regulation no 1272 / 2008 and therefore is a carcinogen as defined in directive 2004 / 37 / ec . scoel concluded that that is not possible to derive a health - based exposure limit value for this non - threshold carcinogen and has recommended avoiding occupational exposure . scoel identified for ethylene dibromide the possibility of significant uptake through the skin . acsh has agreed on a practical limit value , on the basis of the available information , including scientific and technical data . it is therefore appropriate to establish a limit value for ethylene dibromide in part a of annex iii and to set out a skin notation in part b of annex iii to that directive indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake .


### epichlorohydrine meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic in accordance with regulation no 1272 / 2008 and therefore is a carcinogen as defined in directive 2004 / 37 / ec . the committee concluded that that is not possible to derive a health - based exposure limit value for this non - threshold carcinogen and has recommended avoiding occupational exposure . the committee identified for epichlorohydrine the possibility of significant uptake through the skin . the advisory committee on safety and health at work has agreed on a practical limit value , on the basis of the available information , including scientific and technical data . it is therefore appropriate to establish a limit value for epichlorohydrine in part a of annex iii and to set out a skin notation in part b of annex iii to directive 2004 / 37 / ec indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake . ### epichlorohydrine meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic in accordance with regulation no 1272 / 2008 and therefore is a carcinogen as defined in directive 2004 / 37 / ec . scoel concluded that that is not possible to derive a health - based exposure limit value for this non - threshold carcinogen and has recommended avoiding occupational exposure . scoel identified for epichlorohydrine the possibility of significant uptake through the skin . the advisory committee on safety and health at work has agreed on a practical limit value , on the basis of the available information , including scientific and technical data . it is therefore appropriate to establish a limit value for epichlorohydrine in part a of annex iii and to set out a skin notation in part b of annex iii to that directive indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake .


### there is sufficient evidence of the carcinogenicity of oils that have been used before in internal combustion engines to lubricate and cool the moving parts within the engine . these used engine oils are process - generated and therefore they are not subject to classification in accordance with regulation no 1272 / 2008 of the european parliament and of the council57 . the committee identified the possibility of significant uptake through the skin for these oils , assessed that occupational exposure occurs through the dermal route and strongly recommended the establishment of a skin notation . it is therefore appropriate to include work involving exposure to oils that have been used before in internal combustion engines to lubricate and cool the moving parts within the engine in annex i to directive 2004 / 37 / ec and to set out a skin notation in part b of annex iii to directive 2004 / 37 / ec indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake . __________________ 57 regulation no 1272 / 2008 of the european parliament and of the council of 16 december 2008 on classification , labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures . ### there is sufficient evidence of the carcinogenicity of oils that have been used before in internal combustion engines to lubricate and cool the moving parts within the engine . these used engine oils are process - generated and therefore they are not subject to classification in accordance with regulation no 1272 / 2008 of the european parliament and of the council57 . scoel identified the possibility of significant uptake through the skin for these oils , assessed that occupational exposure occurs through the dermal route and strongly recommended the establishment of a skin notation . it is therefore appropriate to include work involving exposure to oils that have been used before in internal combustion engines to lubricate and cool the moving parts within the engine in annex i to directive 2004 / 37 / ec and to set out a skin notation in part b of annex iii to directive 2004 / 37 / ec indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake . __________________ 57 regulation no 1272 / 2008 of the european parliament and of the council of 16 december 2008 on classification , labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures .


### 4 , 4 ' - methylenedianiline meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic in accordance with regulation no 1272 / 2008 and therefore is a carcinogen as defined in directive 2004 / 37 / ec . it is possible , on the basis of available information , including scientific and technical data , to set a limit value for 4 , 4 ' - methylenedianiline . the committee identified for this carcinogen the possibility of significant uptake through the skin . it is therefore appropriate to establish a limit value in part a of annex iii for 4 , 4 ' - methylenedianiline and to set out a skin notation in part b of annex iii to directive 2004 / 37 / ec indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake . ### 4 , 4 ' - methylenedianiline meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic in accordance with regulation no 1272 / 2008 and therefore is a carcinogen as defined in directive 2004 / 37 / ec . it is concluded that there is no possibility to derive a precise health - based exposure limit value for this non - threshold carcinogen . on the basis of available information , including scientific and technical data , it is still possible , however , to set a limit value for 4 , 4 ' - methylenedianiline without over exaggerated values by avoiding harming smes with limited financial assets as well as effectively protecting employees ' health status and employment opportunities . it is also identified for this carcinogen the possibility of significant uptake through the skin . it is therefore appropriate to establish a limit value in part a of annex iii for 4 , 4 ' - methylenedianiline and to set out a skin notation in part b of annex iii to that directive indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake .


### there is sufficient evidence of the carcinogenicity of oils that have been used before in internal combustion engines to lubricate and cool the moving parts within the engine . these used engine oils are process - generated and therefore they are not subject to classification in accordance with regulation no 1272 / 2008 of the european parliament and of the council57 . the committee identified the possibility of significant uptake through the skin for these oils , assessed that occupational exposure occurs through the dermal route and strongly recommended the establishment of a skin notation . it is therefore appropriate to include work involving exposure to oils that have been used before in internal combustion engines to lubricate and cool the moving parts within the engine in annex i to directive 2004 / 37 / ec and to set out a skin notation in part b of annex iii to directive 2004 / 37 / ec indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake . __________________ 57 regulation no 1272 / 2008 of the european parliament and of the council of 16 december 2008 on classification , labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures . ### there is sufficient evidence of the carcinogenicity of oils that have been used before in internal combustion engines to lubricate and cool the moving parts within the engine . these used engine oils are process - generated and therefore they are not subject to classification in accordance with regulation no 1272 / 2008 of the european parliament and of the council57 . the scoel identified the possibility of significant uptake through the skin for these oils , assessed that occupational exposure occurs through the dermal route and strongly recommended the establishment of a skin notation . the acsh has agreed on an entry of used engine oils in annex i to directive 2004 / 37 / ec while agreeing that the route of exposure of concern is the skin . it is therefore appropriate to include work involving exposure to oils that have been used before in internal combustion engines to lubricate and cool the moving parts within the engine in annex i to directive 2004 / 37 / ec and to set out a skin notation in part b of annex iii to directive 2004 / 37 / ec indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake . __________________ 57 regulation no 1272 / 2008 of the european parliament and of the council of 16 december 2008 on classification , labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures .


### directive 2004 / 37 / ec aims to protect workers against risks to their health and safety from exposure to carcinogens or mutagens at the workplace and lays down minimum requirements to that effect including limit values , on the basis of the available scientific and technical data . ### directive 2004 / 37 / ec aims to protect workers against risks to their health and safety from exposure to carcinogens or mutagens at the workplace and lays down minimum requirements to that effect including binding occupational exposure limit values which must not be exceeded , on the basis of the available scientific and technical data .


### the scientific committee on occupational exposure limits 55 assists the commission , in particular , in evaluating the latest available scientific data and in proposing occupational exposure limit values for the protection of workers from chemical risks , to be set at union level pursuant to council directive 98 / 24 / ec56 and directive 2004 / 37 / ec . other sources of scientific information , adequately robust and in the public domain were also considered . __________________ 55 commission decision 2014 / 113 / eu of 3 march 2014 on setting up a scientific committee on occupational exposure limits for chemical agents and repealing decision 95 / 320 / ec . 56 council directive 98 / 24 / ec of 7 april 1998 on the protection of the health and safety of workers from the risks related to chemical agents at work of directive 89 / 391 / eec ) . ### the scientific committee on occupational exposure limits 55 and the advisory committee on safety and health at work 55a assist the commission , in particular , in evaluating the latest available scientific and technical data and in proposing occupational exposure limit values for the protection of workers from chemical risks , to be set at union level pursuant to council directive 98 / 24 / ec56 and directive 2004 / 37 / ec . other sources of scientific information , adequately robust and in the public domain were also considered . __________________ 55 commission decision 2014 / 113 / eu of 3 march 2014 on setting up a scientific committee on occupational exposure limits for chemical agents and repealing decision 95 / 320 / ec . 55a council decision of 22 july 2003 on setting up an advisory committee on safety and health at work . 56 council directive 98 / 24 / ec of 7 april 1998 on the protection of the health and safety of workers from the risks related to chemical agents at work of directive 89 / 391 / eec ) .


### 4 , 4 ' - methylenedianiline meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic in accordance with regulation no 1272 / 2008 and therefore is a carcinogen as defined in directive 2004 / 37 / ec . it is possible , on the basis of available information , including scientific and technical data , to set a limit value for 4 , 4 ' - methylenedianiline . the committee identified for this carcinogen the possibility of significant uptake through the skin . it is therefore appropriate to establish a limit value in part a of annex iii for 4 , 4 ' - methylenedianiline and to set out a skin notation in part b of annex iii to directive 2004 / 37 / ec indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake . ### 4 , 4 ' - methylenedianiline meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic in accordance with regulation no 1272 / 2008 and therefore is a carcinogen as defined in directive 2004 / 37 / ec . it is possible , on the basis of available information , including scientific and technical data , to set a limit value for 4 , 4 ' - methylenedianiline . scoel identified for this carcinogen the possibility of significant uptake through the skin . it is therefore appropriate to establish a limit value in part a of annex iii for 4 , 4 ' - methylenedianiline and to set out a skin notation in part b of annex iii to that directive indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake .


### attitudinal and environmental barriers as well as lack of accessibility hinder the full and effective participation of people with disabilities in society , on an equal basis with others . people with disabilities are faced with barriers to , among other things , access the labour market , benefit from an inclusive and quality education , avoid poverty and social exclusion , enjoy access to cultural initiatives and media , or use their political rights . as a party to the united nations convention on the rights of persons with disabilities , the union and all its member states have committed to promote , protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities . the provisions of the uncrpd have become an integral part of the union legal order . ### attitudinal and environmental barriers as well as lack of accessibility hinder the full and effective participation of people with disabilities in society , on an equal basis with others . people with disabilities , including those with long - term physical , mental , intellectual or sensory impairments , are faced with barriers to , among other things , access the labour market , benefit from an inclusive and quality education , avoid poverty and social exclusion , enjoy access to cultural initiatives and media , or use their political rights . as a party to the united nations convention on the rights of persons with disabilities , the union and all its member states have committed to promote , protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities . the provisions of the uncrpd have become an integral part of the union legal order


### the work programme shall be adopted by the commission by means of an implementing act . that implementing act shall be adopted in accordance with the advisory procedure referred to in article 19 . ### the commission is empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 16 to supplement this regulation by establishing the appropriate work programme .


### increasing citizens ' understanding of the union , its history , cultural heritage and diversity ; ### supporting projects put forward by citizens , with a particular focus on young people , aimed at encouraging people not only to remember the events that preceded the establishment of the eu , which build the core of its historical memory , but also to learn more about their shared history , culture and values , and to get a sense of the wealth of their common cultural heritage and of the cultural and linguistic diversity , which constitute the foundation for a common future ; fostering citizens ' understanding of the union , its origins , raison d ' &#234 ; tre and achievements , and increasing their awareness of its present and future challenges , and of the importance of mutual understanding and tolerance , which are at the very heart of the european project ;


### those rights and values must continue to be promoted and enforced and shared among the citizens and peoples and be at the heart of the eu project . therefore , a new justice , rights and values fund , comprising the rights and values and the justice programmes shall be created in the eu budget . at a time where european societies are confronted with extremism , radicalism and divisions , it is more important than ever to promote , strengthen and defend justice , rights and eu values : human rights , respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law . this will have profound and direct implications for political , social , cultural and economic life in the eu . as part of the new fund , the justice programme will continue to support the further development of union area of justice and cross - border cooperation . the rights and values programme will bring together the 2014 - 2020 programme rights , equality and citizenship established by regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council8 and the europe for citizens programme established by council regulation no 390 / 20149 , . __________________ 8 regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 december 2013 establishing a rights , equality and citizenship programme for the period 2014 to 2020 9 council regulation no 390 / 2014 of 14 april 2014 establishing the ‘ europe for citizens’ programme for the period 2014 - 2020 ### those rights and values as set out in articles 2 and 3 of the treaty on european union must continue to be promoted and enforced and shared among the citizens and peoples and be at the heart of the eu project . therefore , a new justice , rights and values fund , comprising the rights and values and the justice programmes shall be created in the eu budget . at a time where european societies are confronted with extremism , radicalism and divisions , with threats to human rights , to equality , to democracy , the rule of law and with a shrinking space for independent civil society , it is more important than ever to promote , strengthen and defend justice , rights and eu values , being human rights , respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , non - discrimination , and the rule of law , and to protect and support those who defend these values . this will have profound and direct implications for political , social , cultural and economic life in the union and contribute to re - building the trust of the citizens and the peoples in the union and its workings . as part of the new fund , the justice programme will continue to support the further development of union area of justice and cross - border cooperation . the rights and values programme will bring together the 2014 - 2020 programme rights , equality and citizenship established by regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council8 and the europe for citizens programme established by council regulation no 390 / 20149 , . __________________ 8 regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 december 2013 establishing a rights , equality and citizenship programme for the period 2014 to 2020 9 council regulation no 390 / 2014 of 14 april 2014 establishing the ‘ europe for citizens’ programme for the period 2014 - 2020


### remembrance activities and critical reflection on europe’s historical memory are necessary to make citizens aware of the common history , as the foundation for a common future , moral purpose and shared values . the relevance of historical , cultural and intercultural aspects should also be taken into account , as well as the links between remembrance and the creation of a european identity and sense of belonging together . ### remembrance activities and critical and creative thinking on europe’s historical memory are necessary to make citizens , in particular young people , aware of their common history , as the foundation for a common future . the relevance of historical , social , cultural and intercultural aspects , tolerance and dialogue should also be taken into account in order to promote a common ground based on shared values , solidarity , diversity and peace , as well as the links between remembrance and the creation of a european identity and sense of belonging together .


### those rights and values must continue to be promoted and enforced and shared among the citizens and peoples and be at the heart of the eu project . therefore , a new justice , rights and values fund , comprising the rights and values and the justice programmes shall be created in the eu budget . at a time where european societies are confronted with extremism , radicalism and divisions , it is more important than ever to promote , strengthen and defend justice , rights and eu values : human rights , respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law . this will have profound and direct implications for political , social , cultural and economic life in the eu . as part of the new fund , the justice programme will continue to support the further development of union area of justice and cross - border cooperation . the rights and values programme will bring together the 2014 - 2020 programme rights , equality and citizenship established by regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council8 and the europe for citizens programme established by council regulation no 390 / 2014 , . _________________ 8 regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 december 2013 establishing a rights , equality and citizenship programme for the period 2014 to 2020 ### those rights and values must continue to be efficiently cultivated , protected , promoted and enforced and shared among the citizens and peoples and be at the heart of the eu project , in order to uphold those rights and values in the member states and avoid the detrimental effects of their possible deterioration on the union as a whole . therefore , a new justice , rights and values fund , comprising the rights and values and the justice programmes shall be created in the eu budget , which will support open , democratic , pluralist and inclusive societies . at a time where european societies are confronted with extremism , radicalism and divisions , it is more important than ever to promote , strengthen and defend justice , rights and eu values : human rights , respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law . this will have profound and direct implications for political , social , cultural and economic life in the eu . as part of the new fund , the justice programme will continue to support the further development of union area of justice and cross - border cooperation . the rights and values programme will bring together the 2014 - 2020 programme rights , equality and citizenship established by regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council8 and the europe for citizens programme established by council regulation no 390 / 2014 , . _________________ 8 regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 december 2013 establishing a rights , equality and citizenship programme for the period 2014 to 2020


### those rights and values must continue to be promoted and enforced and shared among the citizens and peoples and be at the heart of the eu project . therefore , a new justice , rights and values fund , comprising the rights and values and the justice programmes shall be created in the eu budget . at a time where european societies are confronted with extremism , radicalism and divisions , it is more important than ever to promote , strengthen and defend justice , rights and eu values : human rights , respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law . this will have profound and direct implications for political , social , cultural and economic life in the eu . as part of the new fund , the justice programme will continue to support the further development of union area of justice and cross - border cooperation . the rights and values programme will bring together the 2014 - 2020 programme rights , equality and citizenship established by regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council8 and the europe for citizens programme established by council regulation no 390 / 20149 , . __________________ 8 regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 december 2013 establishing a rights , equality and citizenship programme for the period 2014 to 2020 9 council regulation no 390 / 2014 of 14 april 2014 establishing the ‘ europe for citizens’ programme for the period 2014 - 2020 ### those rights and values must continue to be actively cultivated and promoted by the union and each member state in all their policies , both internally and externally , in a consistent way as well as enforced and shared among the citizens and peoples and be at the heart of the eu project . therefore , a new justice , rights and values fund , comprising the rights and values and the justice programmes shall be created in the eu budget . at a time where european societies are confronted with a growing menace of right - wing violent extremism , radicalism , divisions and a rise in neo - fascist violence , it is more important than ever to promote , strengthen and defend justice , rights and eu values : human rights , respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law . this will have profound and direct implications for political , social , cultural and economic life in the eu . as part of the new fund , the justice programme will continue to support the further development of union area of justice and cross - border cooperation . the rights and values programme will bring together the 2014 - 2020 programme rights , equality and citizenship established by regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council8 and the europe for citizens programme established by council regulation no 390 / 20149 , . __________________ 8 regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 december 2013 establishing a rights , equality and citizenship programme for the period 2014 to 2020 9 council regulation no 390 / 2014 of 14 april 2014 establishing the ‘ europe for citizens’ programme for the period 2014 - 2020


### in order to bring the european union closer to its citizens , a variety of actions and coordinated efforts are necessary . bringing together citizens in town - twinning projects or networks of towns and supporting civil society organisations in the areas covered by the programme will contribute to increase citizens’ engagement in society and ultimately their involvement in the democratic life of the union . at the same time supporting activities promoting mutual understanding , diversity , dialogue and respect for others fosters a sense of belonging and a european identity , based on a shared understanding of european values , culture , history and heritage . the promotion of a greater sense of belonging to the union and of union values is particularly important amongst citizens of the eu outermost regions due to their remoteness and distance from continental europe . ### in order to bring the european union closer to its citizens , a variety of actions and coordinated efforts are necessary . bringing together citizens in town - twinning projects or networks of towns and supporting civil society organisations in the areas covered by the programme will contribute to increase citizens’ engagement in society and ultimately their involvement in the democratic life of the union . at the same time supporting activities promoting mutual understanding , diversity , dialogue and respect for others fosters a sense of belonging and a european identity , based on a shared understanding of european values , culture , history and heritage . the promotion of a greater sense of belonging to the union and of union values is particularly important amongst citizens of the eu outermost regions due to their remoteness and distance from continental europe and among citizens who have been deprived of their fundamental rights , such as the roma , the sami , persons with disabilities and children without parents .


### citizens should also be more aware of their rights deriving from citizenship of the union , and should feel at ease about living , travelling , studying , working and volunteering in another member state , and should feel able to enjoy and exercise all their citizenship rights , place their trust in equal access , full enforceability and protection of their rights without any discrimination , no matter where in the union they happen to be . civil society needs to be supported for the promotion , safeguarding and raising awareness of eu common values under article 2 teu and in contributing to the effective enjoyment of rights under union law . ### citizens should also be more aware of their rights and benefits deriving from citizenship of the union , and should feel at ease about living , travelling , studying , working and volunteering in another member state , and should feel able to enjoy and exercise all their citizenship rights , place their trust in equal access , full enforceability and protection of their rights without any discrimination , no matter where in the union they happen to be . civil society needs to be strengthened at all levels through the promotion , safeguarding and awareness raising of eu common values under article 2 teu so as to contribute to the effective enjoyment of rights under union law .


### those rights and values must continue to be promoted and enforced and shared among the citizens and peoples and be at the heart of the eu project . therefore , a new justice , rights and values fund , comprising the rights and values and the justice programmes shall be created in the eu budget . at a time where european societies are confronted with extremism , radicalism and divisions , it is more important than ever to promote , strengthen and defend justice , rights and eu values : human rights , respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law . this will have profound and direct implications for political , social , cultural and economic life in the eu . as part of the new fund , the justice programme will continue to support the further development of union area of justice and cross - border cooperation . the rights and values programme will bring together the 2014 - 2020 programme rights , equality and citizenship established by regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council8 and the europe for citizens programme established by council regulation no 390 / 20149 , . __________________ 8 regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 december 2013 establishing a rights , equality and citizenship programme for the period 2014 to 2020 9 council regulation no 390 / 2014 of 14 april 2014 establishing the ‘ europe for citizens’ programme for the period 2014 - 2020 ### those rights and values must continue to be promoted , enforced and shared among the citizens and peoples and be at the heart of the eu project . therefore , a new justice , rights and values fund , comprising the europe for citizens , rights and values and the justice programmes should be created in the eu budget . at a time where european societies are confronted with many challenges , such as extremism , radicalism and divisions , and the rule of law is ever more clearly in retreat in certain countries , it is more important than ever to promote , strengthen and defend justice , rights and eu values , such as human rights , including the rights of the persons belonging to minorities , children and youth rights , pluralism , tolerance , respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , solidarity and the rule of law . the europe for citizens , rights and values programme will bring together the 2014 - 2020 programme rights , equality and citizenship established by regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council8 and the europe for citizens programme established by council regulation no 390 / 20149 , . __________________ 8 regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 december 2013 establishing a rights , equality and citizenship programme for the period 2014 to 2020 9 council regulation no 390 / 2014 of 14 april 2014 establishing the ‘ europe for citizens’ programme for the period 2014 - 2020


### the commission shall implement information and communication actions relating to the programme , and its actions and results . financial resources allocated to the programme shall also contribute to the corporate communication of the political priorities of the union , as far as they are related to the objectives referred to in article 2 . ### the commission shall implement information and communication actions relating to the programme , and its actions and results .


### article 24 tfeu obliges the european parliament and the council to adopt provisions for the procedures and conditions required for a citizen ' s initiative within the meaning of article 11 of the treaty on european union . this has been done by adopting regulation [ no 211 / 2011 of the european parliament and of the council14 . the programme should support the financing of technical and organisational support to implement regulation [ no 211 / 2011 ] , thereby underpinning the exercise by citizens of the right to launch and support european citizens’ initiatives . _________________ 14 regulation no 211 / 2011 of the european parliament and of the council of 16 february 2011 on the citizens’ initiative . ### the european citizens’ initiative is the first supranational instrument of participative democracy , creating a direct link between european citizens and the eu institutions . article 24 tfeu obliges the european parliament and the council to adopt provisions for the procedures and conditions required for a citizen ' s initiative within the meaning of article 11 of the treaty on european union . this has been done by adopting regulation [ no 211 / 2011 of the european parliament and of the council14 . the programme should support the financing of technical and organisational support to implement regulation [ no 211 / 2011 ] , thereby underpinning the exercise by citizens of the right to launch , support and encourage others to support european citizens’ initiatives . _________________ 14 regulation no 211 / 2011 of the european parliament and of the council of 16 february 2011 on the citizens’ initiative .


### attitudinal and environmental barriers as well as lack of accessibility hinder the full and effective participation of people with disabilities in society , on an equal basis with others . people with disabilities are faced with barriers to , among other things , access the labour market , benefit from an inclusive and quality education , avoid poverty and social exclusion , enjoy access to cultural initiatives and media , or use their political rights . as a party to the united nations convention on the rights of persons with disabilities , the union and all its member states have committed to promote , protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities . the provisions of the uncrpd have become an integral part of the union legal order . ### attitudinal and environmental barriers as well as lack of accessibility hinder the full and effective participation of persons with disabilities in society , on an equal basis with others . persons with disabilities are faced with barriers when it comes to , among other things , accessing the labour market , benefitting from an inclusive and quality education , avoiding poverty and social exclusion , enjoying access to culture , cultural initiatives and media , and using their political rights . asa party to the united nations convention on the rights of persons with disabilities , the union and all its member states have committed to promote , protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities . the provisions of the uncrpd have become an integral part of the union legal order .