### ' report to ensure the better functioning of the carbon market if , on the basis of the regular reports on the carbon market referred to in article 10 , the commission has evidence that the carbon market is not functioning properly , it shall submit a report to the european parliament and to the council . the report may be accompanied , if appropriate , by proposals aiming at increasing transparency of the carbon market and addressing measures to improve its functioning . ' ### article 29 is amended as follows : ' report to ensure the better functioning of the carbon market if , on the basis of regular reports on the carbon market referred to in article 10 , the commission has evidence that the carbon market is not functioning properly , it shall submit a report to the european parliament and to the council . the report shall include a section dedicated to the interaction between the eu ets and other union and national policies , as regards the volumes of emission reductions and the cost - effectiveness of such policies . the report may be accompanied , if appropriate , by proposals aiming at increasing transparency of the carbon market , and addressing measures to improve its functioning and capacity to contribute to reaching the union ' s 2030 and 2050 climate and energy goals . '


### — 95 % shall be distributed in proportion to their share of elected members of the european parliament among the beneficiary european political parties . ### — 95 % shall be distributed among the beneficiary european political parties in proportion to their share of elected members of the european parliament who are full members of a european political party .


### by the way of derogation from article 18 and as regards applications for funding for the financial year 2019 , the authorising officer of the european parliament shall , before deciding on an application on funding , request evidence from a european political party demonstrating that its member parties have continuously published on their websites , for a period beginning one month after the entry into force of regulation no . xx / 2018 , the political programme and logo of the european political party as well as information , in relation to each of the member parties of the european political party , on the gender representation among the candidates at the last elections to the european parliament and among the members of the european parliament . ### by the way of derogation from article 18 and as regards applications for funding for the financial year 2019 , the authorising officer of the european parliament shall , before deciding on an application on funding , request evidence from a european political party demonstrating that the majority of its member parties and in any event a minimum of seven of them have continuously published on their websites , for a period beginning one month after the entry into force of regulation no . xx / 2018 , the political programme and logo of the european political party as well as information , in relation to each of the member parties of the european political party , on the gender representation among the candidates at the last elections to the european parliament and among the members of the european parliament .


### a european political party shall include in its application evidence demonstrating that its member parties have continuously published on their websites , during 12 months preceding the moment at which the applications is made , the political programme and logo of the european political party as well as information , in relation to each of the member parties of the european political party , on the gender representation among the candidates at the last elections to the european parliament and among the members of the european parliament . ### a european political party shall include in its application evidence demonstrating that the majority of its member partiesand in any event a minimum of seven of them have continuously published on their websites , during 12 months preceding the moment at which the applications is made , the political programme and logo of the european political party as well as information , in relation to each of the member parties of the european political party , on the gender representation among the candidates at the last elections to the european parliament and among the members of the european parliament .


### when assessing whether restrictive and / or discriminatory procurement measures or practices exist in a third country , the commission should examine to what degree laws on public procurement and concessions of the country concerned ensure transparency in line with international standards in the field of public procurement and preclude any discrimination against union goods , services and economic operators . in addition , it should examine to what degree individual contracting authorities or contracting entities maintain or adopt discriminatory practices against union goods , services and economic operators . ### when assessing whether restrictive and / or discriminatory procurement measures or practices exist in a third country , the commission should examine to what degree the laws on public procurement and concessions of the country concerned ensure transparency in line with international standards in the field of public procurement and concessions and preclude any discrimination against union goods , services and economic operators . in addition , it should examine to what degree individual contracting authorities or contracting entities maintain or adopt discriminatory practices against union goods , services and economic operators .


### many third countries are reluctant to open their public procurement and their concessions markets to international competition , or to open those markets further than what they have already done . as a result , union economic operators face restrictive procurement practices in many of the trading partner of the union . those restrictive procurement practices result in the loss of substantial trading opportunities . ### many third countries are reluctant to open their public procurement and their concessions markets to international competition , or to open those markets further than what they have already done . as a result , union economic operators face restrictive procurement practices and concessions in many of the trading partner of the union . those restrictive procurement practices result in the loss of substantial trading opportunities and therefore a procedure to prevent imbalances in third - country public procurement markets should exist .


### within the context of the wto and through its bilateral relations , the union advocates an ambitious opening of international public procurement markets of the union and its trading partners , in a spirit of reciprocity and mutual benefit . ### within the context of the wto and through its bilateral relations , the union advocates an ambitious opening of international public procurement and concessions markets of the union and its trading partners , in a spirit of reciprocity and mutual benefit , based on fair trade .


### member states are best placed to identify the contracting authorities or contracting entities , or categories of contracting authorities or contracting entities , which should apply the price adjustment measure . to ensure that an appropriate level of action is taken and that a fair distribution of the burden among member states is achieved , the commission should take the final decision , based on a list submitted by each member state . where necessary , the commission may establish a list on its own initiative . ### member states are best placed to identify the contracting authorities or contracting entities , or categories of contracting authorities or contracting entities , which should apply the price adjustment measure . to ensure that an appropriate level of action is taken and that a fair distribution of the burden among member states is achieved , the commission should take the final decision , based on a list submitted by each member state and based on the discussion with the member state concerned .


### an examination verifying compliance with the standards of competence referred to in article 15 is carried out by qualified examiners . ### an examination verifying compliance with the standards of competence referred to in article 15 is carried out by qualified independent examiners .


### - have a minimum of five years ' work experience prior to the enrolment in the training programme ; ### - have a minimum of four years ' work experience prior to the enrolment in the training programme ;


### &#8220 ; paternity leave&#8221 ; means leave from work for fathers to be taken on the occasion of the birth of a child ; ### &#8220 ; paternity leave&#8221 ; means paid and mandatory leave from work for fathers or an equivalent second parent as defined in national law to be taken around the time of the birth , stillbirth or adoption of a child . the right to paternity leave referred in paragraph 1 shall be granted irrespective of their length of service or the status of their employment relationship ;


### in accordance with national circumstances , such as national law , collective agreements and / or practice , and taking into account the powers delegated to social partners , member states shall ensure that workers exercising the rights to leave referred to in article 4 , 5 or 6 will receive a payment or an adequate allowance at least equivalent to what the worker concerned would receive in case of sick leave . ### in accordance with national circumstances , such as national law , collective agreements and / or practice , and taking into account the powers delegated to social partners , member states shall ensure that workers exercising the rights to leave referred to in article 4 , 5 or 6 will receive a payment or an allowance equivalent to the full salary .


### work - life balance policies should contribute to the achievement of gender equality by promoting the participation of women in the labour market , making it easier for men to share caring responsibilities on an equal basis with women , and closing gender gaps in earnings and pay . such policies should take into account demographic changes including the effects of an ageing population . ### work - life balance policies should contribute to the achievement of gender equality by promoting the participation of women in the labour market , tackling gender stereotypes that assume women should take the role of carers for children and for elderly and dependent relatives , while men should be the breadwinner and support the family financially , making it easier for men to share caring responsibilities on an equal basis with women , and closing gender gaps in earnings and pay . such policies should take into account demographic changes including the effects of an ageing population .


### employers shall consider and respond to requests for flexible working arrangements referred to in paragraph 1 , taking into account the needs of both employers and workers . employers shall justify any refusal of such a request . ### employers shall consider and respond in writing to requests for flexible working arrangements referred to in paragraph 1 , taking into account the needs of both employers and workers . employers shall justify the grounds of any refusal of such a request while providing options for alternative arrangements .


### &#8220 ; paternity leave&#8221 ; means leave from work for fathers to be taken on the occasion of the birth of a child ; ### &#8220 ; paternity leave&#8221 ; means paid leave from work for fathers or an equivalent second parent as defined in national law to be taken on the occasion of the birth , stillbirth or adoption of a child ;


### employers shall consider and respond to requests for flexible working arrangements referred to in paragraph 1 , taking into account the needs of both employers and workers . employers shall justify any refusal of such a request . ### employers shall consider and respond in writing to requests for flexible working arrangements referred to in paragraph 1 , taking into account the needs of both employers and workers . employers shall justify in writing any refusal or postponement of such requests within a reasonable period of time following the submission of the application . this justification shall be based on exceptional circumstances that are specifically laid down by law , collective agreement and / or practices in force in each member state .


### in order to provide greater opportunities to remain in the work force for men and women carrying of elderly family member and / or other relatives in need of care , workers with a seriously ill or dependant relative should have the right to take time off from work in the form of carers’ leave to take care of that relative . to prevent abuse of that right , proof of the serious illness or dependency may be required prior to granting of the leave . ### in order to provide greater opportunities to remain in the work force for men and women carrying of elderly family member and / or other relatives in need of care , workers with a seriously ill or dependant relative should have the right to take time off from work in the form of carers’ leave to take care of that relative . this not only reflects the current care provision reality , within creasing care needs on the one hand and a deficit in the supply of formal long - term care options , it will help carers to maintain their attachment to the labour market and prevent them from dropping out altogether when faced with a particularly intensive period of care . finally , it will also help employers to mitigate the cost of absenteeism , presenteeism and the erosion of motivation and performance among working carers . informal care is the bedrock of care provision and carers need to be enabled to care . to prevent abuse of that right , proof of the serious illness or dependency may be required prior to granting of the leave .


### employers shall consider and respond to requests for flexible working arrangements referred to in paragraph 1 , taking into account the needs of both employers and workers . employers shall justify any refusal of such a request . ### employers shall consider and respond to requests for flexible working arrangements referred to in paragraph 1 , taking into account the needs of both employers and workers . employers shall justify in writing any refusal of such a request .


### &#8220 ; paternity leave ' means leave from work for fathers to be taken on the occasion of the birth of a child ; ### &#8220 ; paternity leave&#8221 ; means paid leave from work for fathers to be taken on the occasion of the birth or adoption of a child ;


### work - life balance policies should contribute to the achievement of gender equality by promoting the participation of women in the labour market , making it easier for men to share caring responsibilities on an equal basis with women , and closing gender gaps in earnings and pay . such policies should take into account demographic changes including the effects of an ageing population . ### work - life balance policies should contribute to the achievement of gender equality by promoting the participation of women in the labour market , making it easier for men to share caring responsibilities on an equal basis with women , and closing gender gaps in earnings and pay .


### member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure that workers have the right to carers ' leave of at least five working days per year , per worker . such right may be subject to appropriate substantiation of the medical condition of the worker ' s relative . ### member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure that workers have the right to carers ' leave of at least five working days per year on full pay , per worker in case of death , serious accident or illness , hospitalisation or out - patient surgical intervention requiring rest at home , of relatives up to the second degree of consanguinity or affinity ; where the worker needs to travel to that effect , the period shall be extended by two days . such right may be subject to appropriate substantiation of the medical condition of the worker ' s relative .


### “carer” means a worker providing personal care or support in case of a serious illness or dependency of a relative ; ### “carer” means a worker providing personal care or support in case of death , serious accident or illness , hospitalisation or out - patient surgical intervention requiring rest at home , of relatives up to the second degree of consanguinity or affinity ; where the worker needs to travel to that effect , the period shall be extended by two days ;


### “relative” means a worker ' s son , daughter , mother , father , spouse or partner in civil partnership , where such partnerships are envisaged by national law ; ### “relative” means first - degree relatives , and second - degree relatives , as well as spouse or partner in civil partnership , where such partnerships are envisaged by national law , step - and foster children , both in the own and in the spouse’s or partner’s family .


### in order to encourage working parents and carers to remain in the work force , those workers should be able to adapt their working schedules to their personal needs and preferences . working parents and carers should therefore be able to request flexible working arrangements , meaning the possibility for workers to adjust their working patterns , including through the use of remote working arrangements , flexible working schedules , or a reduction in working hours , for caring purposes . in order to address the needs of workers and employers , it should be possible for member states to limit the duration of flexible working arrangements , including a reduction in working hours . while working part - time has been shown to be useful in allowing some women to remain in the labour market after having children , long periods of reduced working hours may lead to lower social security contributions translating into reduced or non - existing pension entitlements . the ultimate decision as to whether or not to accept a worker’s request for flexible working arrangements should lie with the employer , specific circumstances underlying the need for flexible working arrangements can change . workers should therefore not only have the right to return to their original working patterns at the end of a given agreed period , but should also be able to request to do so at any time where a change in the underlying circumstances so requires . ### in order to encourage working parents and carers to remain in the work force , those workers should be able to adapt their working schedules to their personal needs and preferences . working parents and carers should therefore be entitled to flexible working arrangements , meaning for example the possibility for workers to adjust their working patterns , including through the use of remote working arrangements , flexible working schedules , or a reduction in working hours , for caring purposes . in order to address the needs of workers and employers , it should be possible for member states to limit the duration of flexible working arrangements , including a reduction in working hours . while working part - time has been shown to be useful in allowing some women to remain in the labour market after having children , long periods of reduced working hours may lead to lower social security contributions translating into reduced or non - existing pension entitlements . the ultimate decision as to whether or not to accept a worker’s demand for flexible working arrangements should lie with the employer who should justify the refusal in writing . specific circumstances underlying the need for flexible working arrangements can change . workers should therefore not only have the right to return to their original working patterns at the end of a given agreed period , but should also be able to request to do so at any time where a change in the underlying circumstances so requires .


### work - life balance remains however a considerable challenge for many parents and workers with caring responsibilities , with a negative impact on female employment . a major factor contributing to the underrepresentation of women in the labour market is the difficulty of balancing work and family obligations . when they have children , women tend to work less hours in paid employment and spend more time fulfilling unpaid care responsibilities . having an ill or dependent relative has also been shown to have a negative impact on female employment , leading some women to drop out of the labour market entirely . ### work - life balance remains however a considerable challenge for many parents and workers with caring responsibilities , with a negative impact on female employment . a major factor contributing to the underrepresentation of women in the labour market is the difficulty of balancing work and family obligations . when they have children , women tend to work less hours in paid employment and spend more time fulfilling unpaid care responsibilities . having an ill or dependent relative has also been shown to have a negative impact on female employment , leading some women to drop out of the labour market entirely . this in turn has negative financial consequences , as the social security and pension rights of these carers may be affected as a result . research and practice also demonstrate the business case in addressing the needs of working carers , including outcomes such as reduced absenteeism , attracted and retained staff , and better motivation of staff .


### member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure that fathers have the right to take paternity leave of at least ten working days on the occasion of the birth of a child . ### member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure that fathers or the equivalent second parents as defined in national law have the right to take mandatory paternity leave of at least ten working days on the occasion of the birth , stillbirth or adoption of a child .


### . member states shall define the status of the employment contract or employment relationship for the period of leave referred to in article 4 , 5 or 6 , including as regards entitlements to social security , while ensuring that the employment relationship is maintained during that period . ### member states shall define the status of the employment contract or employment relationship for the period of leave referred to in article 4 , 5 or 6 while ensuring that the employment relationship is maintained during that period but also without prejudice to entitlements to social security including to pension contribution to which the worker remains subject throughout the period of leave .


### in order to provide greater possibility for parents to use parental leave as their children grow up , the right to parental leave should be granted until the child is at least twelve years old . member states should be able to specify the period of notice to be given by the worker to the employer when applying for parental leave and to decide whether the right to parental leave may be subject to a certain period of service . in view of the growing diversity of contractual arrangements , the sum of successive fixed - term contracts with the same employer should be taken into account for the purpose of calculating the period of service . to balance the needs of workers with those of employers , member states should also be able to decide whether they define if the employer may be allowed to postpone the granting of parental leave under certain circumstances . in such cases , the employer should provide justification for the postponement . given that flexibility makes it more likely that second parents , in particular fathers , will take up their entitlement to such leave , workers should be able to request to take parental leave on a full - time or part - time basis or in other flexible forms . it should be up to the employer whether or not to accept such a request for parental leave in other flexible forms than full - time . member states should also assess if the conditions and detailed arrangements of parental leave should be adapted to the specific needs of parents in particularly disadvantaged situations . ### in order to provide greater possibility for parents to use parental leave as their children grow up , the right to parental leave should be granted until the child is at least twelve years old . member states should be able to specify a reasonable period of notice to be given by the worker to the employer when applying for parental leave . to balance the needs of workers with those of employers , member states should also be able to decide whether they define if the employer may be allowed to postpone the granting of parental leave under certain circumstances . in such cases , the employer should provide justification for the postponement in writing . given that flexibility makes it more likely that second parents , in particular fathers , will take up their entitlement to such leave , workers should be able to request to take parental leave on a full - time or part - time basis or in other flexible forms . it should be up to the employer whether or not to accept such a request for parental leave in other flexible forms than full - time . member states should also assess if the conditions and detailed arrangements of parental leave should be adapted to the needs of parents in specific situations , in particular with regard to children with disabilities , mental health problems , serious medical conditions or illness , in accordance with their national law and practice .


### member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure that fathers have the right to take paternity leave of at least ten working days on the occasion of the birth of a child . ### member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure that fathers have the right to take paternity leave on full pay of at least ten working days on the occasion of the birth of a child .


### member states may define the circumstances in which an employer , following consultation in accordance with national law , collective agreements and / or practice , may be allowed to postpone the granting of parental leave by a reasonable period of time on the grounds that it would seriously disrupt the good functioning of the establishment . employers shall justify any postponement of parental leave in writing . ### member states may define the circumstances in which an employer , following consultation in accordance with national law , collective agreements and / or practice , may be allowed to postpone once the granting of parental leave by a reasonable period of time on the grounds that it would seriously disrupt the good functioning of the establishment . employers shall justify any postponement of parental leave in writing .


### “parental leave” means leave from work on the grounds of the birth or adoption of a child to take care of that child ; ### “parental leave” means paid leave from work on the grounds of the birth or adoption of a child to take care of that child ;


### when flexible working arrangements referred to in paragraph 1 are limited in duration , the worker shall have the right to return to the original working pattern at the end of the agreed period . the worker shall also have the right to request to return to the original working pattern whenever a change of circumstances so justifies . employers shall be obliged to consider and respond to such requests , taking into account the needs of both employers and workers . ### when flexible working arrangements referred to in paragraph 1 are limited in duration , the worker shall have the right to return to the original working pattern at the end of the agreed period . the worker shall also have the right to request to return to the original working pattern whenever a change of circumstances so justifies . employers shall be obliged to consider and respond in writing to such requests , taking into account the needs of both employers and workers .


### member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure that workers have the right to carers ' leave of at least five working days per year , per worker . such right may be subject to appropriate substantiation of the medical condition of the worker ' s relative . ### member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure that workers have the right to carers ' leave of at least five working days per year , per worker . such right may be subject to appropriate substantiation of the medical condition of the worker ' s relative . member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure that workers have the right to request carers’ leave also on a part - time basis or in other flexible forms .


### workers exercising their rights to take leave or to request flexible working arrangements provided for in this directive should enjoy protection from dismissal and any preparations for a possible dismissal on the grounds that they applied for , or have taken such leave or have exercised the right to request such flexible working arrangements . where workers consider that they have been dismissed on those grounds , they should be able to ask the employer to provide duly substantiated grounds for the dismissal . ### workers exercising their rights to take leave or to flexible working arrangements provided for in this directive should enjoy protection from dismissal and any preparations for a possible dismissal on the grounds that they applied for , or have taken such leave or have exercised the right to such flexible working arrangements . where workers consider that they have been dismissed on those grounds , they should be able to ask the employer to provide duly substantiated grounds for the dismissal .


### the cross - border cooperation component should also involve cooperation between one or more member states and one or more countries or other territories outside the union . covering internal and external cross - border cooperation under this regulation should result in a major simplification and streamlining of applicable provisions for the programme authorities in the member states and for the partner authorities and beneficiaries outside the union compared to the programming period 2014 - 2020 . ### the cross - border cooperation component should also involve cooperation between one or more member states and one or more third countries . covering internal and external cross - border cooperation under this regulation should result in a major simplification and streamlining of applicable provisions for the programme authorities in the member states and for the partner authorities and beneficiaries outside the union compared to the programming period 2014 - 2020 .


### promoting social protection and inclusion and combating poverty . interventions in this area shall aim at modernising social protection systems to provide effective , efficient , and adequate protection throughout all stages of a person ' s life , fostering social inclusion , promoting equal opportunities and addressing inequalities and poverty . interventions in this area shall also focus on : integrating marginalised communities such as the roma ; combating discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation ; enhancing access to affordable , sustainable and high quality services , such as early childhood education and care , housing , healthcare and essential social services and long term care , including through the modernisation of social protection systems . ### promoting social protection and inclusion and eradicating poverty . interventions in this area shall aim at modernising social protection systems to provide effective , efficient , non - discriminatory and adequate protection throughout all stages of a person ' s life , fostering social inclusion , promoting equal opportunities and addressing inequalities and poverty . interventions in this area shall also focus on : integrating marginalised communities such as the roma , including returnees , fighting anti - gypsyism and creating trust through establishing truth , recognition and reconciliation processes ; combating discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age , sexual orientation , sex characteristics or gender identity ; enhancing access to affordable , sustainable and high quality services , such as early childhood education and care , housing , healthcare , elder - and dependent care and essential social services and long term care , including through the modernisation of social protection systems .


### assistance should also be provided in compliance with the agreements concluded by the union with the beneficiaries listed in annex i . assistance should mainly focus on assisting the beneficiaries listed in annex i to strengthen democratic institutions and the rule of law , reform the judiciary and public administration , respect fundamental rights and promote gender equality , tolerance , social inclusion and non - discrimination . assistance should also support the key principles and rights as defined in the european pillar of social rights . 17 assistance should continue to support their efforts to advance regional , macro - regional and cross - border cooperation as well as territorial development , including through implementation of union macro - regional strategies . it should also enhance their economic and social development and economic governance , underpinning a smart , sustainable and inclusive growth agenda , including through implementation of regional development , agriculture and rural development , social and employment policies and the development of the digital economy and society , also in line with the flagship initiative digital agenda for the western balkans . _________________ 17 european pillar of social rights solemnly proclaimed by the european parliament , the council and the commission at the gothenburg social summit for fair jobs and growth , gothenburg 17 november 2017 . ### assistance should also be provided in compliance with the agreements concluded by the union with the beneficiaries listed in annex i . assistance should mainly focus on assisting the beneficiaries listed in annex i to strengthen democratic institutions and the rule of law , reform the judiciary and public administration , respect fundamental rights and promote gender equality , tolerance , social inclusion and non - discrimination . assistance should also support the key principles and rights as defined in the european pillar of social rights . 17 assistance should continue to support their efforts to advance regional , macro - regional and cross - border cooperation , including across maritime borders , as well as territorial development , including through implementation of union macro - regional strategies . it should also good neighbourly relations , reconciliation and regional cooperation . it should also enhance their economic and social development and economic governance , underpinning a smart , sustainable and inclusive growth agenda , including through implementation of regional development , agriculture and rural development , social and employment policies and the development of the digital economy and society , also in line with the flagship initiative digital agenda for the western balkans . _________________ 17 european pillar of social rights solemnly proclaimed by the european parliament , the council and the commission at the gothenburg social summit for fair jobs and growth , gothenburg 17 november 2017 .


### enhanced strategic and operational cooperation between the union and the beneficiaries listed in annex i on security is pivotal to addressing effectively and efficiently security and terrorism threats . ### enhanced strategic and operational cooperation between the union and the beneficiaries listed in annex i on security is pivotal to addressing effectively and efficiently security threats , including serious crime and terrorism .


### establishing and promoting from an early stage the proper functioning of the institutions necessary in order to secure the rule of law . interventions in this area shall aim at : establishing independent , accountable and efficient judicial systems , including transparent and merit - based recruitment and promoting judicial cooperation , evaluation and promotion systems and effective disciplinary procedures in cases of wrongdoing ; ensuring the establishment of robust systems to protect the borders , manage migration flows and provide asylum to those in need ; developing effective tools to prevent and fight organised crime , trafficking in human beings , migrants smuggling , money laundering / financing of terrorism and corruption ; promoting and protecting human rights , rights of persons belonging to minorities including roma as well as lesbian , gay , bisexual , transgender and intersex persons fundamental freedoms , including freedom of the media and data protection . ### establishing and promoting from an early stage the proper functioning of the institutions necessary in order to secure the rule of law . interventions in this area shall aim at : establishing independent , accountable and efficient judicial systems , including transparent and merit - based recruitment and promoting judicial cooperation , evaluation and promotion systems and effective disciplinary procedures in cases of wrongdoing ; ending discrimination against and promoting long - term socio - economic inclusion of third - country nationals in need of protection ; developing effective tools to prevent and fight organised crime , trafficking in human beings , migrants smuggling , money laundering / financing of terrorism and corruption ; promoting and protecting human rights , rights of persons belonging to minorities including roma1a , the rights of returnees , rights of people with disabilities , women , as well as lesbian , gay , bisexual , transgender and intersex persons fundamental freedoms , including freedom of the media and data protection . encouraging and supporting the effective participation of women and minority groups in politics . addressing gender mainstreaming as a priority and taking concrete steps to gender mainstream all policies . _________________ 1a the word ‘ roma’ is used as an umbrella term which includes different related groups , whether sedentary or not , such as roma , ashkalis , égyptiens , etc . , that may be diverse in culture and lifestyles ;


### assistance should also be provided in compliance with the agreements concluded by the union with the beneficiaries listed in annex i . assistance should mainly focus on assisting the beneficiaries listed in annex i to strengthen democratic institutions and the rule of law , reform the judiciary and public administration , respect fundamental rights and promote gender equality , tolerance , social inclusion and non - discrimination . assistance should also support the key principles and rights as defined in the european pillar of social rights . 17 assistance should continue to support their efforts to advance regional , macro - regional and cross - border cooperation as well as territorial development , including through implementation of union macro - regional strategies . it should also enhance their economic and social development and economic governance , underpinning a smart , sustainable and inclusive growth agenda , including through implementation of regional development , agriculture and rural development , social and employment policies and the development of the digital economy and society , also in line with the flagship initiative digital agenda for the western balkans . _________________ 17 european pillar of social rights solemnly proclaimed by the european parliament , the council and the commission at the gothenburg social summit for fair jobs and growth , gothenburg 17 november 2017 . ### assistance should also be provided in compliance with the agreements concluded by the union with the beneficiaries listed in annex i . assistance should mainly focus on assisting the beneficiaries listed in annex i to strengthen democratic institutions and the rule of law , reform the judiciary and public administration , respect fundamental human rights and promote gender equality , tolerance , social inclusion and non - discrimination . assistance should also support the key principles and rights as defined in the european pillar of social rights . 17 assistance should continue to support their efforts to advance regional , macro - regional and cross - border cooperation as well as territorial development , including through implementation of union macro - regional strategies , such as the danube strategy . it should also enhance their economic and social development and economic governance , underpinning a smart , sustainable and inclusive growth agenda , including through implementation of regional development , agriculture and rural development , social and employment policies by the development of smes and the development of the digital economy and society , also in line with the flagship initiative digital agenda for the western balkans . _________________ 17 european pillar of social rights solemnly proclaimed by the european parliament , the council and the commission at the gothenburg social summit for fair jobs and growth , gothenburg 17 november 2017 .


### it is essential to further step up cooperation on migration including border management , ensuring access to international protection , sharing relevant information , strengthening the development benefits of migration , facilitating legal and labour migration , enhancing border control and pursuing our effort in the fight against irregular migration , trafficking in human beings and migrant smuggling . ### it is essential to further step up cooperation on migration including border management , ensuring access to international protection , sharing relevant information , strengthening the development benefits of migration , facilitating legal and labour migration , enhancing border control and pursuing our effort in the fight against irregular migration , trafficking in human beings , migrant smuggling and terrorism .


### assistance should also be provided in compliance with the agreements concluded by the union with the beneficiaries listed in annex i . assistance should mainly focus on assisting the beneficiaries listed in annex i to strengthen democratic institutions and the rule of law , reform the judiciary and public administration , respect fundamental rights and promote gender equality , tolerance , social inclusion and non - discrimination . assistance should also support the key principles and rights as defined in the european pillar of social rights . 17 assistance should continue to support their efforts to advance regional , macro - regional and cross - border cooperation as well as territorial development , including through implementation of union macro - regional strategies . it should also enhance their economic and social development and economic governance , underpinning a smart , sustainable and inclusive growth agenda , including through implementation of regional development , agriculture and rural development , social and employment policies and the development of the digital economy and society , also in line with the flagship initiative digital agenda for the western balkans . _________________ 17 european pillar of social rights solemnly proclaimed by the european parliament , the council and the commission at the gothenburg social summit for fair jobs and growth , gothenburg 17 november 2017 . ### assistance should also be provided in compliance with the agreements concluded by the union with the beneficiaries listed in annex i . assistance should mainly focus on assisting the beneficiaries listed in annex i to strengthen democratic institutions and the rule of law , reform the judiciary and public administration , respect fundamental rights , protect of minorities , to promote gender equality , tolerance , social inclusion and non - discrimination , protect human rights’ defenders , whistle - blowers and civil society , and to support initiatives that promote transparency , accountability , integrity and the fight against corruption .


### it is essential to further step up cooperation on migration including border management , ensuring access to international protection , sharing relevant information , strengthening the development benefits of migration , facilitating legal and labour migration , enhancing border control and pursuing our effort in the fight against irregular migration , trafficking in human beings and migrant smuggling . ### it is essential to further step up cooperation on migration , ensuring access to international protection , sharing relevant information , strengthening the development benefits of migration , facilitating legal and labour migration , and pursuing our effort in the fight against trafficking in human beings and migrant smuggling .


### enhanced strategic and operational cooperation between the union and the beneficiaries listed in annex i on security is pivotal to addressing effectively and efficiently security and terrorism threats . ### enhanced strategic and operational cooperation between the union and the beneficiaries listed in annex i on security is pivotal to addressing effectively and efficiently security , organised crime and terrorism threats


### promoting employment , labour mobility and social and cultural inclusion across borders through , inter alia : integrating cross - border labour markets , including cross - border mobility ; joint local employment initiatives ; information and advisory services and joint training ; gender equality ; equal opportunities ; integration of immigrants ' communities and vulnerable groups ; investment in public employment services ; and supporting investment in public health and social services ; ### promoting employment , labour mobility and social and cultural inclusion across borders through , inter alia : integrating cross - border labour markets , including cross - border mobility ; joint local employment initiatives ; information and advisory services and joint training ; gender equality ; equal opportunities ; integration of immigrants ' communities , roma and&#160 ; groups in vulnerable situations ; investment in public employment services ; and supporting investment in public health and social services ;


### to support territorial and cross - border cooperation . ### to support territorial and cross - border cooperation , including across maritime borders .


### strengthening the rule of law , including the fight against corruption and organised crime , and good governance , including public administration reform , remain key challenges in most of the beneficiaries listed in annex i and are essential in order for beneficiaries to come closer to the union and later to fully assume the obligations of union membership . in view of the longer - term nature of the reforms pursued in those areas and the need to build up track records , financial assistance under this regulation should address the requirements placed on the beneficiaries listed in annex i as early as possible . ### strengthening the rule of law , including the fight against corruption and organised crime , prevent radicalisation and terrorism and good governance , including public administration reform , remain key challenges in most of the beneficiaries listed in annex i and are essential in order for beneficiaries to come closer to the union and later to fully assume the obligations of union membership . in view of the longer - term nature of the reforms pursued in those areas and the need to build up track records , financial assistance under this regulation should address the requirements placed on the beneficiaries listed in annex i as early as possible .


### the beneficiary member state , in coordination with the commission , may enter into partnership with one or more other member states which shall act as reform partners in respect of specific areas of reform . a reform partner shall , in coordination with the commission , help formulate strategy , reform roadmaps , design high - quality assistance or oversee implementation of strategy and projects . ### the beneficiary member state , in coordination with the commission , may enter into partnership with one or more other member states which shall act as reform partners in respect of specific areas of reform . a reform partner shall , in coordination with the beneficiary member state and the commission , help formulate strategy , reform roadmaps , design high - quality assistance or oversee implementation of strategy and projects .


### the specific objectives set out in paragraph 1 shall refer to policy areas related to competitiveness , growth , jobs and investment , in particular to the following : ### the specific objectives set out in paragraph 1 shall refer to policy areas related to competitiveness , sustainable growth , jobs and investment , and economic , social and territorial cohesion , in particular to the following :


### the general objective of the programme shall be to contribute to institutional , administrative and structural reforms in the member states by providing support to national authorities for measures aimed at reforming institutions , governance , administration , economic and social sectors in response to economic and social challenges with a view to enhancing competitiveness , growth , jobs , and investment , in particular in the context of economic governance processes , including through assistance for the efficient and effective use of the union funds . ### the general objective of the programme shall be to contribute to institutional , administrative and structural reforms in the member states by providing support to national authorities for measures aimed at reforming institutions , governance , administration , economic and social sectors in response to economic and social challenges with a view to enhancing competitiveness , sustainable growth , jobs , and investment , and economic social and territorial cohesion , in particular in the context of economic governance processes , including through assistance for the efficient and effective use of the union funds .


### participate in the development and management of research and innovation activities relevant for the control and surveillance of external borders , including the use of advanced surveillance technology such as remotely piloted aircraft systems and develop pilot projects regarding matters covered by this regulation ; ### monitor and participate in the development and management of research and innovation activities relevant for the control and surveillance of external borders , including the use of advanced surveillance technology such as remotely piloted aircraft systems and develop pilot projects regarding matters covered by this regulation ;


### the european border and coast guard shall guarantee the protection of fundamental rights in the performance of its tasks under this regulation in accordance with relevant union law , in particular the charter of fundamental rights of the european union , relevant international law , including the convention relating to the status of refugees and obligations related to access to international protection , in particular the principle of non - refoulement . for that purpose , the agency shall draw up and further develop and implement a fundamental rights strategy . ### the european border and coast guard shall guarantee the protection of fundamental rights in the performance of its tasks under this regulation in accordance with relevant union law , in particular the charter of fundamental rights of the european union , relevant international law , including the convention relating to the status of refugees and obligations related to access to international protection , in particular the principle of non - refoulement . for that purpose , the agency in cooperation with european union agency for fundamental rights shall draw up and further develop and implement a fundamental rights strategy that should be approved by the european parliament .


### the objectives of a joint operation or rapid border intervention may be achieved as part of a multipurpose operation which may involve the rescue of persons in distress at sea or other coast guard functions , the fight against migrant smuggling or trafficking in human beings , drug trafficking control operations , and migration management including identification , registration , debriefing and return . ### the objectives of a joint operation or rapid border intervention may be achieved as part of a multipurpose operation which may involve the rescue of persons in distress at sea or other coast guard functions conducted in a way that , in all instances , ensures the safety of the persons intercepted or rescued , the safety of the participating units and that of third parties , the fight against migrant smuggling or trafficking in human beings , drug trafficking control operations , and migration management including identification , registration , debriefing and return .


### sharing excellence33 _________________ 33 a criterion based on research and innovation excellence will be used to define those member states and associated countries where legal entities need to be established in order to be eligible to submit proposals as coordinators under ' sharing excellence ' . this criterion will address the dimensions of the overall economic performance , research performance and innovation performance in a combined manner normalised to the size of the related countries . the countries identified with this criterion are called ' eligible countries ' in the context of ' sharing excellence ' . on the basis of article 349 tfeu , legal entities from outermost regions will be also fully eligible as coordinators under ' sharing excellence ' . ### spreading excellence and widening participation


### –developing and networking the research competences of ai competence centres across europe ; ### –developing and networking research competences and the competences of innovation centres specialising in ai across europe ;


### for each mission , a mission board may be established . it shall be composed of around 15 high level individuals including relevant end - users ' representatives . the mission board shall advise upon the following : ### for each mission , a mission board may be established for co - designing and steering implementation . it shall be composed of around 15 high level individuals including relevant end - users ' representatives . the mission board shall include , inter alia , representatives from academia , research and technology organisations , industry of all sizes , territorial authorities , and relevant end - users ' representatives . the members of the mission board shall be appointed by the commission , following an independent and transparent procedure for their selection , including an open call for expressions of interest . they shall advise on the following :


### –blue value - chains , the multiple - use of marine space and growth of the renewable energy sector from seas and oceans , including sustainable micro - and macro - algae ; ### –blue value - chains , including coastal and maritime tourism , the multiple - use of marine space and growth of the renewable energy sector from seas and oceans , including sustainable micro - and macro - algae ;


### cluster food and natural resources ' , as described in annex i , pillar ii , section 5 ; ### cluster food , natural resources , seas and oceans ' , as described in annex i , pillar ii , section 5 ;


### –rail technologies and operations for a high - capacity , silent , interoperable , and automated railway system ; ### –rail technologies and operations for a high - capacity , attractive , silent , interoperable , and automated railway system for passenger as well as freight transport requirements ;


### 2 . 4 . sea and oceans ### 2 . 4 . sea , oceans and blue economy


### in accordance with article 9of regulation &#8230 ; fp / rfp regulation , the financial envelope for the implementation of the specific programme for the period 2021 to 2027 shall be eur 94 100 000 000 in current prices . ### in accordance with article 9of regulation &#8230 ; fp / rfp regulation , the financial envelope for the implementation of the specific programme for the period 2021 to 2027 shall be eur 120 000 000 000 in constant prices .


### –vehicle / vessel / aircraft concepts and designs , including their spare parts , using improved materials and structures , efficiency , energy storage and recovery , safety and security features with less environment and health impact . ### –vehicle / vessel / aircraft concepts and designs , including their spare parts , and software updates , using improved materials and structures , software solutions , efficiency , energy storage and recovery , safety and security features with less environment and health impact .


### –promote and co - fund joint innovation programmes managed by authorities in charge of public national , regional or local innovation policies and programmes , to which private entities supporting innovation and innovators may be associated . such demand - driven joint programmes may target , among others , early stage and feasibility study support , academia - enterprise cooperation , support to high - tech smes ' collaborative research , technology and knowledge transfer , internationalisation of smes , market analysis and development , digitalisation of low - tech smes , financial instruments for close to market innovations activities or market deployment , social innovation . they may also include joint public procurement initiatives , enabling innovations to be commercialised in the public sector , in particular in support of the development of new policy . this could be particularly effective to stimulate innovation in public service areas and to provide market opportunities to european innovators . ### –promote and co - fund joint innovation programmes managed by authorities in charge of public national , regional or local innovation policies and programmes , to which private entities supporting innovation and innovators should be associated . such supply and demand - driven joint programmes may target , among others , early stage and feasibility study support , cooperation between academia , research organisations and enterprises , internationalisation of smes , market analysis and development , digitalisation of low - tech smes , financial instruments for close to market innovations activities or market deployment , social innovation . they may also include joint public procurement initiatives , enabling innovations to be commercialised in the public sector , in particular in support of the development of new policy . when managed at the local level , those programmes should allow transnational partnerships and should be coherent with the smart specialisation strategies of the involved regions . this could be particularly effective to stimulate innovation in public service areas and to provide market opportunities to european innovators .


### content of work programmes and their revision as needed for achieving the mission objectives , in co - design with stakeholders and the public where relevant ; ### content of relevant work programmes and their revision as needed for achieving the mission objectives , in co - design with stakeholders and the public where relevant ;


### –risk assessment , management and communication , supported by improved tools for evidence - based decision - making , including alternatives to animal testing ; ### –risk assessment , management and communication , including information sharing , supported by improved tools for evidence - based decision - making , including alternatives to animal testing ;


### health technologies and tools are vital for public health and contributed to a large extent to the important improvements achieved in the quality of life , health and care of people , in the eu . it is thus a key strategic challenge to design , develop , deliver and implement suitable , trustable , safe , and cost - effective tools and technologies for health and care , taking due account of the needs of people with disabilities and the aging society . these include artificial intelligence and other digital technologies , offering significant improvements over existing ones , as well as stimulating a competitive and sustainable health - related industry that creates high - value jobs . the european health - related industry is one of the critical economic sectors in the eu , accounting for 3% of gdp and 1 . 5 million employees . ### health technologies and tools are vital for public health and contributed to a large extent to the important improvements achieved in the quality of life , health and care of people , in the eu . it is thus a key strategic challenge to design , develop , deliver and implement suitable , affordable , trustable , safe , and cost - effective tools and technologies for health and care , taking due account of the needs of people with disabilities and the aging society . these include artificial intelligence and other digital tools and technologies , offering significant improvements over existing ones , as well as stimulating a competitive and sustainable health - related industry that creates high - value jobs . the european health - related industry is one of the critical economic sectors in the eu , accounting for 3% of gdp and 1 . 5 million employees .


### cluster ' food and natural resources ' ### cluster ' food , natural resources , seas and oceans '


### –access to and sharing of cultural heritage , with innovative patterns and uses and participatory management models ; ### –access to and sharing of cultural heritage and its information , with innovative patterns and uses , including digital ones , and participatory management models ;


### health systems are a key asset of the eu social systems , accounting for 24 million employees in the health and social work sector in 2017 . it is a main priority to render health systems accessible , cost - effective , resilient , sustainable and trusted as well as to reduce inequalities , including by unleashing the potential of data - driven and digital innovation for better health and person - centred care building on open european data infrastructures . this will advance the digital transformation of health and care . ### health systems are a key asset of the eu social systems , accounting for 24 million employees in the health and social work sector in 2017 . it is a main priority to render health systems accessible , quality , resilient , sustainable and trusted as well as to reduce inequalities , including by unleashing the potential of data - driven and digital innovation for better health and person - centred care building on open european data infrastructures . this will advance the digital transformation of health and care .


### –next generation internet applications and services for consumers , industry and society building on trust , interoperability , better user control of data , transparent language access , new multi modal interaction concepts , inclusive and highly personalised access to objects , information and content , including immersive and trustworthy media , social media and social networking ; ### –next generation internet applications and services for consumers , industry and society building on trust , interoperability , better user control of data , transparent language access , new multi modal interaction concepts , inclusive and highly personalised access to objects , information and content , including immersive and trustworthy media , social media and social networking , e - commerce ;


### –biodiversity status , ecosystem protection , climate mitigation and adaptation , food security , agriculture and forestry , land use and land use change , urban and peri - urban development , natural resources management , ocean exploitation and conservation , maritime security , and other relevant domains ; ### –biodiversity status , ecosystem protection , climate mitigation and adaptation , agriculture , soil fertility and forestry , land use and land use change , urban and peri - urban development , natural resources management , ocean exploitation and conservation , maritime security , and other relevant domains ;


### –drivers for the emergence or re - emergence of infectious diseases and their spread , including transmission from animals to humans , or from other parts of the environment to humans ; ### –drivers for the emergence or re - emergence of infectious diseases and their spread , including transmission mechanisms from animals to humans , or from other parts of the environment to humans and the implementation of empirical preventative solutions that minimise transmission ;


### reflecting the important contribution that research and innovation should make to address challenges in food , agriculture , rural development and the bioeconomy , and to seize the corresponding research and innovation opportunities in close synergy with common agricultural policy , relevant actions under the specific programme will be supported with eur 10 billion for the cluster ' food and natural resources ' for the period 2021 - 2027 . ### reflecting the important contribution that research and innovation should make to address challenges in food , agriculture , fisheries and aquaculture , rural development and the bioeconomy , and to seize the corresponding research and innovation opportunities in close synergy with common agricultural policy and common fisheries policy , relevant actions under the specific programme will be supported with eur 16 billion for the cluster ‘ food , natural resources , seas and oceans’ for the period 2021 - 2027 .


### –maternal , paternal , infant and child health as well as the role of parents ; ### –maternal , paternal , infant and child health as well as the role of parents and child and maternal survival ;


### –renewable energy technologies and solutions for power generation , heating and cooling , sustainable transport fuels and intermediate carriers , at various scales and development stages , adapted to geographic conditions and markets , both within the eu and worldwide ; ### –renewable energy technologies and solutions for power generation , heating and cooling , sustainable renewable or decarbonised transport fuels and feedstock , at various scales and development stages , adapted to geographic conditions and markets , both within the eu and worldwide ;


### health research and innovation research and innovation have played a significant part in this achievement but also in improving productivity and quality in the health and care industry . however , the eu continues to face novel , newly emerging or persisting challenges that are threatening its citizens and public health , the sustainability of its health care and social protection systems , as well as the competitiveness of its health and care industry . major health challenges in the eu include : the lack of effective health promotion and disease prevention ; the rise of non - communicable diseases ; the spread of antimicrobial drug resistance and the emergence of infectious epidemics ; increased environmental pollution ; the persistence of health inequalities among and within countries affecting disproportionally people that are disadvantaged or in vulnerable stages of life ; the detection , understanding , control , prevention and mitigation of health risks in a rapidly changing social , urban and natural environment ; the increasing costs for european health care systems and the progressive introduction of personalised medicine approaches and digitalisation in health and care ; and the increasing pressure on the european health and care industry to remain competitive in and by developing health innovation vis - a - vis new and emerging global players . ### health research and innovation have played a significant part in this achievement but also in improving productivity and quality in the health and care industry . however , the eu continues to face novel , newly emerging or persisting challenges that are threatening its citizens and public health , the sustainability of its health care and social protection systems , as well as the competitiveness of its health and care industry . major health challenges in the eu include : the lack of effective health promotion and disease prevention ; the rise of non - communicable diseases ; the spread of antimicrobial drug resistance and the emergence of infectious epidemics ; increased environmental pollution ; the increase of mental illness ; the persistence of health inequalities among and within countries affecting disproportionally people that are disadvantaged or in vulnerable stages of life ; the detection , understanding , control , prevention and mitigation of health risks in a rapidly changing social , urban and natural environment ; the increasing costs for european health care systems ; and the increasing pressure on the european health and care industry to remain competitive in and by developing health innovation vis - a - vis new and emerging global players . challenges also include taking full advantage of the progressive introduction of personalised medicine approaches and of the opportunities that digitalisation in health and care provide .


### seas and oceans ' natural capital and ecosystem services offer significant socio - economic and welfare benefits . this potential is at risk because of the severe pressure from human and natural stressors such as pollution , overfishing , climate change , sea - level rise and extreme weather events . to prevent seas and oceans from reaching a point of no return , it is necessary to strengthen our knowledge and understanding in order to sustainably manage , protect and restore marine and coastal ecosystems and prevent marine pollution , in a context of an improved and responsible ocean governance framework . this will also include research to sustainably unlock the vast and unexploited economic potential of seas and oceans aiming at producing more food without increasing pressures on them , and also contribute to alleviate pressure on land , freshwater and ocean resources . there is a need for partnering approaches , including sea basin and macro - regional strategies , extending beyond the eu ; and for contributing to international ocean governance commitments , initiatives like the united nations decade of ocean science for sustainable development and commitments linked to the conservation of marine biological diversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction . ### seas , oceans ' and inland waters ' natural capital and ecosystem services offer significant socio - economic and welfare benefits . this potential is at risk because of the severe pressure from human and natural stressors such as pollution , overfishing , climate change , sea - level rise , other water - use and extreme weather events . to prevent seas and oceans from reaching a point of no return , it is necessary to strengthen our knowledge and understanding in order to sustainably manage , protect and restore marine and coastal ecosystems and prevent marine pollution , in a context of an improved and responsible ocean governance framework . this will also include research to sustainably unlock the vast and unexploited economic potential of seas , oceans and inland waters aiming at producing more food without increasing pressures on them , as well the potential of aquaculture in all forms , and also contribute to alleviate pressure on land , freshwater and ocean resources . there is a need for partnering approaches , including sea basin and macro - regional strategies , extending beyond the eu ; and for contributing to international ocean governance commitments , initiatives like the united nations decade of ocean science for sustainable development and commitments linked to the conservation of marine biological diversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction .


### list of configurations of the programme committee in accordance with article 12 : ### list of configurations of the programme committee in accordance with article 12 and their areas of intervention :


### it will include extensive consultations and exchanges with member states , the european parliament as appropriate , and with various stakeholders about priorities , including missions , under the ' global challenges and industrial competitiveness ' pillar , and the suitable types of action to use , in particular european partnerships . ### it will include extensive consultations and exchanges with member states , the european parliament , and with various stakeholders about priorities , including missions , under the ' global challenges and industrial competitiveness ' pillar , and the suitable types of action to use , in particular european partnerships . such consultations should promote exchanges with the private sector in order to better leverage its participation and investments , helping to deliver innovations with exploitation potential .


### 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 specific programme will contribute to mainstream climate actions and to the achievement of an overall target of 25 % of the eu budget expenditures supporting climate objectives . actions under this specific programme are expected to contribute 35% of the overall financial envelope of the specific programme to climate objectives . relevant actions will be identified during the specific 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 as a frontrunner , this specific programme will contribute to mainstream climate actions and to the swift achievement of an overall target of 30 % of the eu budget expenditures supporting climate objectives . actions under this specific programme are expected to contribute 35% of the overall financial envelope of the specific programme to climate objectives . relevant actions will be identified during the specific programme ' s preparation and implementation , and reassessed in the context of the relevant evaluations and review processes .


### the president shall chair the eic board , prepare its meetings , assign tasks to members , and may establish dedicated sub - groups , in particular to identify emerging technology trends from eic ' s portfolio . he or she shall promote the eic , act as interlocutor with the commission and represent the eic in the world of innovation . the commission may provide for administrative support for the president to undertake his or her duties . ### the president shall chair the eic board , prepare its meetings , assign tasks to members , and may establish dedicated sub - groups , in particular to identify emerging technology trends from eic ' s portfolio . he or she shall promote the eic , act as interlocutor with the commission and represent the eic in the world of research and innovation . the commission may provide for administrative support for the president to undertake his or her duties .


### cluster ' inclusive and secure society ' ### cluster ' inclusive society '


### connecting and developing research infrastructures across the european research area ; ### connecting , developing and facilitating wide access to research infrastructures across the european research area ;


### in the ' global challenges and industrial competitiveness ' and the ' open innovation ' pillars , research and innovation will be complemented with activities which operate close to the end - users and the market , such as demonstration , piloting or proof - of - concept , excluding however commercialisation activities going beyond the research and innovation phase . this will also include support to demand - side activities that help accelerate the deployment and diffusion of a broad range of innovations . emphasis will be put on non - prescriptive calls for proposals . ### in the ' societal challenges and industrial competitiveness ' and the ' open innovation ' pillars , research and innovation will be complemented with activities which operate close to the end - users and the market , such as demonstration , piloting or proof - of - concept , excluding however commercialisation activities going beyond the research and innovation phase . this will also include support to demand - side activities that help accelerate the deployment and diffusion of a broad range of innovations . emphasis will be put on non - prescriptive calls for proposals .


### the eu aims to be world leader in affordable , secure and sustainable energy technologies improving its competitiveness in global value chains and its position in growth markets . diverse climatic , geographical , environmental and socio - economic conditions in the eu as well as the need to ensure energy security and access to raw materials , dictate a broad portfolio of energy solutions , including of non - technical nature . as regards renewable energy technologies , costs need to decrease further , performance must improve , integration into the energy system must be improved and breakthrough technologies need to be developed . as regards fossil fuels , decarbonising their usage will be essential to meet the climate objectives . ### the eu aims to be world leader in affordable , secure and sustainable renewable energy technologies improving its competitiveness in global value chains and its position in growth markets . diverse climatic , geographical , environmental and socio - economic conditions in the eu as well as the need to save energy , ensure energy security and access to raw materials , dictate a broad portfolio of renewable energy solutions , including of non - technical nature . significant improvements need to be made on system integration . the energy transformation will challenge the eu to lead in developing solutions for an upgraded market design including the provision of grid and system services by renewables . the heating and cooling sector is still one of the most polluting sectors . the energy performance of buildings directive 2018 / 844 leads the way for accelerating the shift away from fossil fuels as source of energy supply to heating and cooling towards renewable energy technologies and solutions . to achieve the necessary deployment levels of renewable energy technologies , costs need to decrease further and performance must improve which requires support for incremental research in advanced technologies . furthermore , new breakthrough technologies need to be developed , while established technologies need to be improved . the phase - out of fossil fuels will be indispensable to meet the climate objectives . there is a pressing need to find solutions that further reduce entry barriers for renewables , including non - technical ones , in order to accelerate the market uptake of renewables .


### increasing collaboration across sectors and disciplines ; ### increasing collaboration across sectors and disciplines , including social sciences and humanities ;


### for each mission , a mission board may be established . it shall be composed of around 15 high level individuals including relevant end - users ' representatives . the mission board shall advise upon the following : ### for each mission , a mission board shall be established , following an open call for nominations or expression of interest . . it shall be composed of around 15 independent , high level individuals including relevant end - users ' representatives and shall connect to a high - level panel tasked with ensuring a comprehensive research strategy in the broader field , such as in health . the mission board shall advise upon the following :


### the eic will be implemented primarily through two complementary types of action , namely the pathfinder for advanced research , for the early stages of technology development , and the accelerator for innovation and market deployment actions , including the pre - mass commercialisation stages and company growth . with the idea to offer a single one - stop shop and a single process of support , the accelerator will also award blended finance , combining grants with equity investments . it will in addition also channel access to loans provided under the investeu programme . ### the eic will be implemented primarily through two complementary types of action , namely the eic pathfinder for advanced research , for the early stages of technology development , and the eic accelerator for innovation and market deployment actions , including the pre - mass commercialisation stages and company growth . with the idea to complement the eit in offering a single one - stop shop and a single process of support , the accelerator will also award blended finance , combining grants with equity investments . it will in addition also channel access to loans provided under the investeu programme .


### for each mission , a mission board may be established . it shall be composed of around 15 high level individuals including relevant end - users ' representatives . the mission board shall advise upon the following : ### for each mission , a mission board shall be established with the task of co - designing and implementation . it shall be composed of around 15 independent high - level individuals , including research experts in various fields and relevant end - users ' representatives . each mission committee shall be selected through a call for nominations or a call for expressions of interest . the mission board shall recommend and advise upon the following :


### –quality of life for the citizens , safe mobility , urban social innovation , cities ' circular and regenerative capacity , reduced environmental footprint and pollution ; ### –quality of life for the citizens and visitors , safe mobility , urban social innovation , cities ' circular and regenerative capacity , reduced environmental footprint and pollution , smart destinations ;


### the implementation of horizon europe ' s programme - level objectives in an integrated manner will be ensured by multiannual strategic planning . such planning will provide the focus on impact for the programme overall and coherence between its different pillars , as well as synergy with other eu programmes and support to and from other eu policies . ### the implementation of horizon europe shall be steered by an inclusive and transparent strategic planning process of the research and innovation activities funded by the programme . the strategic planning process shall implement the horizon europe ' s programme - level objectives by defining the funding priorities . it will provide focus on impact for the programme and coherence between its different pillars , as well as synergy with other eu programmes and support to and from other eu policies . the strategic planning process and the adoption of the strategic r&i plan by means of a delegated act will increase ownership and understanding for the purpose of the programme by a wider public and will allow the co - legislators , stakeholders and member states to be fully informed on the envisaged initiatives . the strategic planning will help to develop and implement policy for the relevant areas covered , at union level as well as complementing policies in the member states . it will allow the simplification of the funding landscape , avoid duplication and overlaps between funding possibilities and promote faster dissemination and uptake of research and innovation results . in order to respond to those objectives , the commission will launch an open consultation phase with member states , the european parliament , stakeholders , including civil society organisations , about the strategic priorities including missions , under the global challenges and european industrial competitiveness pillar , and the suitable types of instruments , in particular the european partnerships . all partnerships and missions or any other strategic new initiative shall be identified in this strategic r&i plan before being implemented in work programmes . as regards european partnerships , the strategic r&i plan will outline and give the rationale for the creation , merge and phasing out of the european partnerships . all well - established partnerships , such as the joint technology initiatives , will be considered for continuation beyond 2020 due to their added - value in bringing and leveraging private investment and contribution to synergies of funds . as in horizon 2020 , proposals for joint undertakings will be presented as council regulations . on - going and new kics will be identified in the legislative proposal for a decision of the european parliament and the council on the eit strategic innovation agenda . ' fet flagships ' supported under horizon 2020 will continue to be supported under the programme . as they present substantial analogies with missions , other ' fet flagships ' , if any , maybe be supported under this framework programme as missions geared towards future and emerging technologies . the missions should strengthen the collaborative aspects of the programme and reinforce existing european partnerships , which could work as supporting implementation pillars of the missions . the missions will have technological and societal elements and will be defined in close cooperation with all relevant dgs . the strategic planning will identify existing links between horizon europe and other union programmes , including the euratom programme , which offer possibilities for synergies between union funds . horizon europe will become a point of reference for research and innovation in all related programmes across the union budget and non - funding instruments . this will also promote faster dissemination and uptake of research and innovation results and avoid duplication and overlaps between funding possibilities . it will provide the frame for linking the direct research actions of the joint research centre and other actions supported under the programme , including the use of results for support to policy .


### food and natural resources ### food , natural resources , seas and oceans


### –teaming , to create new centres of excellence or upgrade existing ones in eligible countries , building on partnerships between leading scientific institutions and partner institutions ; ### –teaming , to create new centres of excellence or upgrade existing ones , including through new excellent research and innovation activities , in eligible countries , building on cooperation in all stages of research between leading scientific institutions and partner institutions ;


### the accelerator will allow for fast - track take - up of innovations stemming from pathfinder - supported projects from the pathfinder , from similar member states ' advanced research programmes ' and from other pillars of the eu framework programmes28 , in order to support them to reach the market . this identification of projects supported in other pillars of horizon europe and also previous framework programmes will be based on pertinent methodologies , such as the innovation radar . _________________ 28 such as erc proof of concept , from projects supported under the ' global challenges and industrial competitiveness ' pillar , startups emerging from the kics of the european institute of innovation and technology , … including from horizon 2020 activities , particularly project selected under horizon 2020 sme phase 2 and related seal of excellence financed by member states , european partnerships . ### the accelerator will allow for fast - track take - up of innovations stemming from pathfinder - supported projects from the pathfinder and from other pillars of the eu framework programmes28 , in order to support them to reach the market . this identification of projects supported in other pillars of horizon europe and also previous framework programmes will be based on pertinent methodologies , such as the innovation radar . _________________ 28 such as erc proof of concept , from projects supported under the ' global challenges and industrial competitiveness ' pillar , startups emerging from the kics of the european institute of innovation and technology , … including from horizon 2020 activities , particularly project selected under horizon 2020 sme phase 2 and related seal of excellence financed by member states , european partnerships .


### the eic board shall act in the interest of achieving the objectives of the eic component . it shall act with integrity and probity and carry out its work efficiently and with transparency . ### the eic board shall act in the interest of achieving the objectives of the eic component and in line with eu industrial policy priorities . it shall act with integrity and probity and carry out its work efficiently and with transparency , taking care to avoid distortions of competition in the internal market .


### in order to be fully open to broad - sweeping explorations , opportunities of serendipity and unexpected ideas , concepts and discoveries , the pathfinder will be mainly implemented through a continuous open call for bottom - up proposals . the pathfinder will also provide for competitive challenges to develop key strategic objectives24 calling for deep - tech and radical thinking . regrouping of selected projects into thematic or objective driven portfolios will allow establishing critical mass of efforts and structuring new multidisciplinary research communities . _________________ 24 these could include topics such as artificial intelligence , quantum technologies , biocontrol or second generation digital twins , or any other topics identified in the context of the horizon europe strategic programming . ### in order to be fully open to broad - sweeping explorations , opportunities of serendipity and unexpected ideas , concepts and discoveries , the pathfinder will be mainly implemented through a continuous open call for bottom - up proposals , with 4 cut - off per year for the proper management of the evaluation and competition . the pathfinder will also provide for competitive challenges to develop key strategic objectives24 calling for deep - tech and radical thinking . other types of innovation will be also covered by the pathfinder . regrouping of selected projects into thematic or objective driven portfolios will allow establishing critical mass of efforts and structuring new multidisciplinary research communities . _________________ 24 these could include topics such as artificial intelligence , quantum technologies , biocontrol or second generation digital twins , or any other topics identified in the context of the horizon europe strategic programming .


### sharing excellence33 _________________ 33 a criterion based on research and innovation excellence will be used to define those member states and associated countries where legal entities need to be established in order to be eligible to submit proposals as coordinators under ' sharing excellence ' . this criterion will address the dimensions of the overall economic performance , research performance and innovation performance in a combined manner normalised to the size of the related countries . the countries identified with this criterion are called ' eligible countries ' in the context of ' sharing excellence ' . on the basis of article 349 tfeu , legal entities from outermost regions will be also fully eligible as coordinators under ' sharing excellence ' . ### spreading excellence and widening participation


### –drivers for the emergence or re - emergence of infectious diseases and their spread , including transmission from animals to humans , or from other parts of the environment to humans ; ### –drivers for the emergence or re - emergence of infectious diseases and their spread , including transmission from animals to humans , or from other parts of the environment to humans and the implementation of empirical preventative solutions that minimize transmission ;


### digitisation is a major driver . as it continues at a rapid pace across all sectors , investment in priority areas ranging from artificial intelligence to next generation internet , high performance computing , photonics and nano - electronics , becomes essential for the strength of our economy and the sustainability of our society . investing , producing and using ict provides a major boost to eu economic growth , amounting to an increase of 30% between 2001 and 2011 alone . ### digitisation is a major driver . as it continues at a rapid pace across all sectors , investment in priority areas ranging from artificial intelligence to next generation internet , high performance computing , photonics and nano - electronics , smart environmental data , becomes essential for the strength of our economy and the sustainability of our society . investing , producing and using ict provides a major boost to eu economic growth , amounting to an increase of 30% between 2001 and 2011 alone .


### –buildings life - cycle design , construction , operation and dismantling , taking into account circularity and environmental performance , for energy and resource efficiency , climate resilience , and recycling ; ### –buildings life - cycle design , construction , operation and dismantling , construction with light - weight and renewable materials , taking into account circularity and environmental performance , for energy and resource efficiency , climate resilience , carbon footprint and recycling ;


### –agricultural and forestry systems from farm to landscape levels ; the use and delivery of ecosystem services in primary production ; ### –innovative agricultural and forestry systems from farm to landscape levels ; the use and delivery of ecosystem services in primary production ;


### the specific programme ' s actions should be used to address market failures or sub - optimal investment situations , in a proportionate manner , without duplicating or crowding out private financing and have a clear european added value . ### the specific programme ' s actions should be used to foster the union ' s scientific and technological excellence in order to address global challenges , in particular climate change , foster the union ' s industrial competitiveness and improve quality of life in the union by addressing market failures or sub - optimal investment situations in a proportionate manner , avoiding duplicating or crowding out private financing ;


### activities under this cluster contribute in particular to the goals of the energy union , as well as to those of the digital single market , the jobs , growth and investment agenda , the strengthening of the eu as a global actor , the new eu industrial policy strategy , the circular economy , the raw materials initiative , the security union and the urban agenda , as well as the common agricultural policy of the eu as well as eu legal provisions to reduce noise and air pollution . ### activities under this cluster contribute in particular to the goals of the energy union , as well as to those of the digital single market , the jobs , growth and investment agenda , the strengthening of the eu as a global actor , the new eu industrial policy strategy , the circular economy , the raw materials initiative , the security union and the urban agenda , the maritime policy as well as the common agricultural policy of the eu as well as eu legal provisions to reduce noise and air pollution .


### –methods , technologies and tools for sustainable and resilient production in farming and forestry ; ### –methods , technologies and innovative tools for sustainable and resilient production in farming and forestry and for the most efficient use of water resources ;


### under the ' global challenges and industrial competitiveness ' pillar , building on experience in horizon 2020 , the social sciences and the humanities will be fully integrated across all clusters , including specific and dedicated activities . likewise , activities involving marine and maritime research and innovation will be implemented in a strategic and integrated manner in line with the eu integrated maritime policy , the common fisheries policy policies and international commitments . ### under the ' societal challenges and industrial competitiveness ' pillar , building on experience in horizon 2020 , the social sciences and the humanities will be fully integrated across all clusters , including specific and dedicated activities . likewise , activities involving marine and maritime research and innovation will be implemented in a strategic and integrated manner in line with the eu integrated maritime policy , the common fisheries policy policies and international commitments .


### trans - border aspects of infectious diseases and specific challenges in low - and middle - income countries , such as tropical diseases . ### trans - border aspects of research and development of medicines in infectious diseases and specific challenges in low - and middle - income countries , in particular poverty - related diseases , such as neglected tropical diseases , aids , tuberculosis , and malaria . poverty - related and neglected diseases need to be tackled in a comprehensive approach based on partnership with member states , affected regions and research and expert institutions , building on the success of the second european and developing countries clinical trials partnership programme and including the development of new treatment methods for infectious diseases to counteract antibiotic resistance .