### adopt and clearly communicate to suppliers and the public its supply chain policy for the minerals and metals potentially originating from conflict - affected and high - risk areas , ### adopt and clearly communicate to suppliers and the public its supply chain policy for&#160 ; covered resources&#160 ; potentially originating from conflict - affected and high - risk areas ,


### adopt and clearly communicate to suppliers and the public its supply chain policy for the minerals and metals potentially originating from conflict - affected and high - risk areas , ### adopt and clearly and systematically communicate to suppliers and the public its supply chain policy for the minerals and metals potentially originating from conflict - affected and high - risk areas ,


### respect the audit principles of independence , competence and accountability as set out in the oecd due diligence guidance . ### respect the audit principles of independence , competence and accountability and any applicable audit scope , criteria and activities , as set out in the oecd due diligence guidance .


### independent third - party audits regarding each of the responsible smelters or refiners in its supply chain carried out in accordance with the scope , objective and principles set out in article 6 of the regulation , ### independent third - party audits carried out in accordance with article 6 of this regulation ; and


### the responsible importer of minerals or metals within the scope of this regulation shall make available to its immediate downstream purchasers all information gained and maintained pursuant to its supply chain due diligence with due regard to business confidentiality and other competitive concerns . ### operators shall make available to their immediate downstream purchasers all information gained and maintained pursuant to its supply chain due diligence with due regard to business confidentiality and other competitive concerns , in accordance with the oecd guidance .


### the commission shall update the information included in the list in a timely manner . the commission shall remove from the list the names of the smelters and refiners that are no longer recognised as responsible importers by member states in accordance with article 14 , or the names of the smelters and refiners in the supply chain of the no longer recognised responsible importers . ### the commission shall update the information included in the list in a timely manner but not less than every six months . the commission shall remove from the list the names of annex ii actors that are no longer recognised as responsible annex ii actors by member states in accordance with article 14 .


### in case of an infringement of the provisions of this regulation , the competent authorities of member states shall issue a notice of remedial action to be taken by the responsible importer . ### in case of an infringement of the provisions of this regulation , the competent authorities of member states shall notify the responsible importer of the remedial action to be taken by him .


### in order to express union solidarity with displaced workers and self - employed persons whose activity has ceased , the co - funding rate of the cost of the package of personalised services and its implementation should equal that of the esf + in the respective member state concerned . ### in order to express union solidarity with displaced workers and self - employed persons whose activity has ceased , the co - funding rate of the cost of the package of personalised services and its implementation should be 70% of the total estimated costs .


### financial contributions from the egf should be primarily directed at active labour market measures aimed at reintegrating beneficiaries rapidly into sustainable employment , either within or outside their initial sector of activity . measures should reflect the prospected needs of the local or regional labour market . however , whenever relevant , the mobility of displaced workers should also be supported in order to help find new employment elsewhere . a particular focus shall be laid on the dissemination of skills required in the digital age . the inclusion of pecuniary allowances in a coordinated package of personalised services should be restricted . companies could be encouraged to participate in the national co - funding for the egf - supported measures . ### financial contributions from the egf should be primarily directed at active labour market measures aimed at reintegrating beneficiaries rapidly into sustainable employment , either within or outside their initial sector of activity , but should also seek to promote enterprise creation , including through the establishment of cooperatives . measures should reflect the prospected needs of the local or regional labour market . however , whenever relevant , the mobility of displaced workers should also be supported in order to help find new employment elsewhere . a particular focus shall be laid on the dissemination of skills required in the digital age . the inclusion of pecuniary allowances in a coordinated package of personalised services should be restricted . companies could be encouraged to participate in the national co - funding for the egf - supported measures .


### in order to support beneficiaries effectively and rapidly , member states should do their utmost to submit complete applications for a financial contribution from the egf . in case the commission requires further information for the assessment of an application , the provision of additional information should be limited in time . ### in order to support beneficiaries effectively and rapidly , it is important for cooperation between the member states and the commission to be optimal in order to meet the deadlines for examining applications for a financial contribution from the egf . member states should do their utmost to submit complete applications for a financial contribution from the egf . in case the commission requires further information for the assessment of an application , the provision of additional information should be limited in time .


### in order to enable political scrutiny by the european parliament and continuous monitoring by the commission of results obtained with egf assistance , member states should submit a final report on the implementation of the egf . ### in order to enable political scrutiny by the european parliament and continuous monitoring by the commission of results obtained with egf assistance , member states should submit a final report on the implementation of the egf every two years .


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


### ' irregularity ' means any breach of applicable law , resulting from an act or omission by an economic operator involved in the implementation of the egf , which has , or would have , the effect of prejudicing the budget of the union by charging unjustified expenditure to that budget . ### ' irregularity ' means any breach of applicable law , resulting from an act or omission by an economic operator involved in the implementation of the egf , which has , or would have , the effect of prejudicing the financial interests of the union by charging unjustified expenditure to that budget .


### the cessation of activity of more than 250 displaced workers or self - employed persons , over a reference period of six months , particularly in smes , where all operate in the same economic sector defined at nace revision 2 division level and located in one region or two contiguous regions defined at nuts 2 level or in more than two contiguous regions defined at nuts 2 level provided that there are more than 250 workers or self - employed persons affected in two of the regions combined ; ### the cessation of activity of more than 250 displaced workers or self - employed persons , over a reference period of nine months , particularly in smes which may all operate in identical or different economic sectors defined at nace revision 2 division level and located in one region or two contiguous regions defined at nuts 2 level or in more than two contiguous regions defined at nuts 2 level provided that there are more than 250 workers or self - employed persons affected in two of the regions combined ;


### the investments for self - employment , starting an own business or for employee take - overs may not exceed eur 20 000 per displaced worker . ### the investments for self - employment , starting an own business or for employee take - overs , through the establishment of cooperatives in particular , may not exceed eur 20 000 per displaced worker .


### for evaluation purposes , indicative case specific targets defined by the member state regarding the re - employment rate of beneficiaries 6 months after the end of the implementation period ; ### for evaluation purposes , indicative case specific targets and indicators defined by the member state regarding the re - employment rate of beneficiaries 6 months after the end of the implementation period ;


### the commission shall implement information and communication activities on egf cases and outcomes based on its experience with the aim of improving the effectiveness of the egf and ensuring that union citizens and workers know about the egf . ### the commission shall implement information and communication activities on egf cases and outcomes based on its experience and evaluations provided by the member states , with the aim of improving the effectiveness of the egf and ensuring that union citizens and workers know about the egf .


### the co - financing rate of the egf for the measures offered shall be aligned with the highest co - financing rate of the esf + in the respective member state . ### the co - financing rate of the egf for the measures offered shall not exceed 70% of the total estimated costs referred to in article 9 .


### the results of a beneficiary survey conducted six months after the end of the implementation period , which shall cover the perceived change in the employability of beneficiaries , or for those who already found employment , more information on the quality of employment found , such as the change in working hours , level of responsibility or change of salary level in comparison to previous employment , and the sector in which the person found employment and break down this information by gender , age group and education level ; ### the results of a beneficiary survey conducted within six months of the end of the implementation period , which shall cover the perceived change in the employability of beneficiaries , or for those who already found employment , more information on the quality of employment found , such as the change in working hours , level of responsibility or change of salary level in comparison to previous employment , and the sector in which the person found employment and break down this information by gender , age group and education level ;


### in order to help the workers who enjoy the right to free movement to effectively exercise that right , assistance in accordance with the present regulation is open to any union national who has a right to take up an activity as an employed person and their family members , in accordance with article 45 of the treaty . member states shall give the same access to any third - country national benefiting , as per union or national law , from equal treatment with their own nationals in this field . ### in order to help the workers who enjoy the right to work on the basis of free movement to effectively exercise that right , assistance in accordance with the present regulation is open to any union national who has a right to take up an activity as an employed person and their family members , in accordance with article 45 of the treaty . member states shall give the same access to any third - country national benefiting , as per union or national law , from equal treatment with their own nationals in this field .


### growing interdependency between labour markets calls for reinforced cooperation between employment services to bring about freedom of movement for all workers through voluntary and fair labour mobility within the union in accordance with article 46 of the treaty , and therefore a common framework for cooperation should be established between member states and the commission on labour mobility within the union . this framework should bring together job vacancies from across the union and the possibility of applying for those job vacancies , define the provision of related support services to workers and employers and provide for a common approach to share information necessary to facilitate said co - operation . ### growing interdependency between labour markets and the need for their integration calls for reinforced cooperation between employment services to bring about freedom of movement for all workers through voluntary and fair labour mobility within the union in accordance with article 46 of the treaty , and therefore a common framework for cooperation should be established between member states and the commission on labour mobility across the member states and between the member states and norway , iceland , switzerland and liechtenstein . this framework should bring together job vacancies from across the union and citizens of the union and of those four countries and the possibility of applying for those job vacancies , define the provision of related support services to workers and employers and provide for a common approach to share information necessary to facilitate said co - operation . the union should , in particular , take the necessary measures to guarantee employment opportunities and workers’ rights in general , including as regards third countries participating in the eures network .


### in the ‘ compact for growth and jobs’ , the european council requested to explore the possibility of extending to apprenticeships and traineeships the eures network , apprenticeships and traineeships can be covered under the present regulation , provided that the persons concerned are considered workers with reference to the rights conferred on citizens under article 45 of the treaty . an appropriate exchange of general information on mobility for apprenticeships and traineeships within the union needs to be introduced and adequate assistance to the candidates for those positions should be developed , based on a mechanism for clearance of offers , once such a clearance is deemed feasible in accordance with the appropriate standards and with due respect to the competences of the member states . ### in the ‘ compact for growth and jobs’ , the european council requested to explore the possibility of extending the eures network to apprenticeships and traineeships , including those organised by cross - border partnerships . apprenticeships and traineeships can be covered under the present regulation , provided that the persons concerned are considered workers with reference to the rights conferred on citizens under article 45 of the treaty . an appropriate exchange of general information on mobility for apprenticeships and traineeships within the union needs to be introduced , which should be recognised in a way similar to diplomas issued by the standard education systems in the member states , and adequate assistance to the candidates for those positions should be developed , based on a mechanism for clearance of offers , once such a clearance is deemed feasible in accordance with the appropriate standards and with due respect to the competences of the member states .


### the social partners ' participation in the eures network contributes in particular to the analysis of obstacles to mobility as well as the promotion of fair and voluntary labour mobility within the union , including in the cross - border regions . social partners representatives at union level should therefore be involved in the overall governance structure of the eures network , while national employers ' organisations and trade unions may apply to become a eures partner . ### the social partners ' participation in the eures network contributes in particular to the analysis of obstacles to mobility as well as the promotion of fair and voluntary labour mobility within the union , including in the cross - border regions . social partners representatives at national and union level should therefore be involved in the overall governance structure of the eures network .


### the social partners ' participation in the eures network contributes in particular to the analysis of obstacles to mobility as well as the promotion of fair and voluntary labour mobility within the union , including in the cross - border regions . social partners representatives at union level should therefore be involved in the overall governance structure of the eures network , while national employers ' organisations and trade unions may apply to become a eures partner . ### the social partners ' participation in the eures network contributes in particular to the analysis of obstacles to mobility as well as the promotion of fair and voluntary labour mobility within the union , including in the cross - border regions and for the equal benefit of women and men . social partners representatives at union level should therefore be involved in the overall governance structure of the eures network , while national employers ' organisations , organisations addressing specific needs of groups of citizens - such as women , and trade unions may apply to become a eures partner .


### a common classification system of skills , competences , qualifications and occupations constitutes one of the most important tools for enabling online job application in the union , it is therefore necessary to develop the cooperation between member states and the european commission in order to achieve interoperability and meaningful automated matching across borders , including by mapping to and from the common to national classification systems . other established european formats and tools for comparability of and transparency on skills and qualifications , such as the european qualifications framework and the single framework for the transparency of qualifications and competences should also be used in this context . ### a common classification system of skills , competences , qualifications and occupations constitutes one of the most important tools for enabling online job application in the union , it is therefore necessary to develop the cooperation between member states and the european commission in order to achieve interoperability and meaningful automated matching across borders , including by mapping to and from the common to national classification systems . member states should be kept informed of the development of european skills , competences , qualifications and occupations tool . other established european formats and tools for comparability of and transparency on skills and qualifications , such as the european qualifications framework and the single framework for the transparency of qualifications and competences should also be used in this context .


### a common approach to the services delivered by the organisations participating in the eures network should be established and the principle of equal treatment of workers and employers seeking assistance on intra - union labour mobility , regardless of their location in the union , should be secured as much as possible , and therefore principles and rules should be established regarding the availability of support services in the territory of the individual member states . this common approach also covers apprenticeships and traineeships considered as work . ### a common approach to the services delivered by the organisations participating in the eures network should be established and the principle of equal treatment of workers and employers seeking assistance on intra - union labour mobility , regardless of their location in the union or of their gender , should be secured as much as possible , and therefore principles , rules and gender - disaggregated data - sets should be established regarding the availability of support services in the territory of the individual member states . this common approach also covers apprenticeships and traineeships considered as work .


### support services for workers are connected to the exercise of their fundamental freedom of movement as workers under union law , they should be free of charge . however , support services for employers may be subject to a fee , in accordance with national practices . ### support services for workers are connected to the exercise of their fundamental freedom of movement as workers under union law , and they should therefore be free of charge , as should support services for employers .


### particular attention should be paid to supporting mobility in the cross - border regions for and providing services to frontier workers who are living in one member state and working in another and have to cope with different national practices and legal systems and encounters specific administrative , legal or tax obstacles to mobility . member states may choose to set up specific support structures to facilitate this kind of mobility , such structures should , within the framework of the eures network , address the specific needs for information , guidance , cross - border matching between labour demand and supply and the resulting placements . ### particular attention should be paid to supporting regions that suffer from severe and permanent natural or demographic handicaps and to mobility in the cross - border regions for and providing services to frontier workers who are living in one member state and working in another , the number of which is rising constantly , and who have to cope with different national practices and legal systems and encounter specific administrative , legal or tax obstacles to mobility . member states should continue to provide backing for specific support structures that facilitate this kind of mobility andthat address , within the framework of the eures network , the specific needs for information , advice , guidance , cross - border matching between labour demand and supply and the resulting placements .


### the sharing of draft activity plans under the programming cycle among member states should enable the national coordination offices , acting on behalf of the member states , together with the european coordination office , to direct the resources of the eures network toward appropriate actions and projects , and thereby steer the development of the eures network as a more result - oriented tool responsive to the needs of workers according to the dynamics of labour markets . ### the sharing of draft activity plans under the programming cycle among member states should enable the national coordination offices , acting on behalf of the member states , together with the european coordination office and the social partners , to direct resources of the eures network toward appropriate actions and projects , and thereby steer the development of the eures network as a more result - oriented tool responsive to the needs of workers according to the dynamics of labour markets .


### the functioning of a european network of employment services between member states and the commission ; ### strengthening the functioning of the european network of employment services among member states , the commission , and norway , iceland , switzerland and liechtenstein ;


### ' the public employment services ' are the organisations of the member states , as part of relevant ministries , public bodies or corporations falling under public law , that are responsible for implementing active labour market policies and providing employment services in the public interest ; ### ' the public employment services ' are the organisations of the member states , as part of relevant ministries , public bodies or corporations falling under public law , that are responsible for implementing active labour market policies and providing high - quality employment services in the public interest ;


### ‘ job vacancy’ means any offer for employment , including for apprenticeships and traineeships considered as work ; ### ‘ job vacancy’ means any offer of employment , including apprenticeships and traineeships considered as work . in accordance with article 45 tfeu , apprenticeships and traineeships considered as work must comply with minimum social and labour standards and provide sufficient remuneration to cover the expenses related to the work ;


### establishment ### reorganisation


### this regulation establishes a european network of employment services . ### this regulation provides for the reorganisation and strengthening of the european network of employment services and cross - border eures offices .


### the european commission which is responsible for assisting the eures network in carrying out its activities through the ' european coordination office ' ; ### the european commission which is responsible for assisting the eures network in carrying out its activities through the ' european coordination office ' , which shall be supported by the relevant european social partners , workers and employers ' organisations , in&#160 ; its duties at union level ;


### the eures partners which are the organisations authorised by member states to provide at national , regional and / or local level support with clearance and / or support services to workers and employers . ### the eures partners , which are the organisations authorised by member states to provide , at national , regional and / or local level , including on a cross - border basis , support with clearance and / or support services to workers and employers and eures cross - border partnerships .


### the implementation of the coordinated strategy for employment in accordance with article 145 tfeu ; ### the implementation of the coordinated strategy for employment and particularly for promoting a skilled , trained and adaptable workforce in accordance with article 145 tfeu ;


### social inclusion and integration of persons excluded from the labour market . ### social inclusion and integration of persons in a vulnerable situation of being excluded from the labour market .


### facilitation of networking , exchange of best practice and mutual learning within the eures network ; ### facilitation of mutual learning within the eures network and exchange of best practices by organising annual conferences under the coordination of the eures european coordination office ;


### the analysis of geographic and occupational mobility ; ### the analysis of the demand and supply on the labour market within the union , as well as the geographic and occupational mobility ;


### the development of an appropriate framework for cooperation and clearance within the union on apprenticeships and traineeships , in accordance with this regulation ; ### the development of an appropriate cooperation and clearance structure within the union on apprenticeships and traineeships , in accordance with this regulation ;


### the monitoring and evaluation of eures activity and its employment performance , in co - operation with eures members ; ### the monitoring and evaluation of eures activity and its employment performance , in co - operation with eures members , with particular focus on the regional and local dimension and , where appropriate , drawing up proposals for improvement .


### each national coordination office is responsible for ### the national coordination office comprises the body , appointed by the member state , responsible for the application of this regulation in the respective member state and the social partners at national level . in particular , it shall also be responsible for :


### coordination of actions by the member state concerned and with other member states in accordance with chapter v . ### coordination of actions by the member state concerned and with other member states , as well as with norway , iceland , switzerland and liechtenstein , in accordance with chapter v .


### for the purpose of publication , including on the eures portal , in the interest of workers and employers , the national coordination office validates , regularly updates and timely disseminates information and guidance available at national level on : ### for the purpose of publication , including on the eures portal , in the interest of workers and employers , the national coordination office or , where appropriate , the eures cross - border partnership , validates , regularly updates and timely disseminates information and guidance available on :


### the national coordination office provides general support to the organisations participating within its own territory in the eures network regarding collaboration with their eures counterparts in other member states . this includes support in case of complaints related to eures job vacancies and recruitments , as well as cooperation with public authorities such as labour inspectorates . ### the national coordination office provides general support to the organisations participating within its own territory in the eures network regarding collaboration with their eures counterparts in other member states , including organisations participating in cross - border partnerships , and with partners in norway , iceland , switzerland and liechtenstein . this includes support in case of complaints related to eures job vacancies and recruitments , as well as cooperation with public authorities such as labour inspectorates .


### the national coordination office promotes the collaboration with stakeholders such as career guidance services , universities , chambers of commerce and organisations involved in apprenticeships and traineeships schemes . ### the national coordination office promotes collaboration between stakeholders such as the social partners in particular , as well as career guidance services , universities , chambers of commerce and organisations involved in apprenticeships and traineeships schemes .


### the national coordination office promotes the collaboration with stakeholders such as career guidance services , universities , chambers of commerce and organisations involved in apprenticeships and traineeships schemes . ### the national coordination office promotes the collaboration with stakeholders from all levels of governance and society such as career guidance services , universities , chambers of commerce , ngos and organisations involved in apprenticeships and traineeships schemes , with particular focus on smes .


### the coordination group is composed of representatives of the european coordination office and the national coordination offices . ### the coordination group shall be composed of : - representatives of the european coordination office ; - representatives of the national coordination offices ; - representatives of the social partners ; - representatives of cross - border partnerships .


### all job vacancies available with its public employment services as well as those provided by its eures partners ; ### all job vacancies available with its public employment services as well as those provided by its eures partners , provided that the employers concerned have consented to making the information available to the eures portal ;


### member states shall seek to develop one - stop shop solutions for the communication towards frontier workers and employers in those cross border regions where the member states concerned together deem it necessary to set up specific co - operation and service structures . ### where cross - border partnerships exist member states shall seek , in close cooperation with those cross - border partnerships , to develop one - stop shop solutions for the communication towards frontier workers and employers .


### member states shall support the development of a coordinated approach at national level to such services . ### member states shall support the development of a coordinated approach at national level to such services , designed to address the specific needs of regions , municipalities , or both .


### the eures partners concerned proactively offer all workers seeking employment the opportunity to access the services defined in this article . where appropriate , this offer is repeated during the job search process . ### the eures partners concerned proactively offer all workers seeking employment , with particular regard to vulnerable persons , the opportunity to access the services defined in this article . where appropriate , this offer is repeated during the job search process .


### where necessary , to provide assistance with the uploading of such job applications and on relevant national job search portals and the eures portal ; ### where necessary , to provide assistance for the use of the eures portal , such as for uploading job applications on the eures portal ;


### to provide information and guidance on factors which can facilitate the recruitment of workers and how to support their integration ; ### to provide information and guidance on factors which can facilitate the recruitment of workers and how to support their integration and to facilitate their access to basic health , social welfare and childcare ;


### where necessary , to provide assistance with the registration as an employer on the eures portal ; ### where necessary , to provide assistance for the use of the eures portal , namely support with the registration as an employer on the eures portal ;


### upon recruitment of a worker from another member state as a result of the services provided in accordance with this article , the eures partners concerned provide the employer concerned with the contact details of organisations which can offer assistance with the integration of newly recruited workers from other member states . ### upon recruitment of a worker from another member state as a result of the services provided in accordance with this article , the eures partners concerned provide the employer concerned with the contact details of organisations , including the social partners , which can offer assistance with the integration of newly recruited workers from other member states .


### the eures partners concerned shall provide information and guidance to employers interested in recruiting workers from other member states and in particular offer them the following services : ### the eures partners concerned shall provide information and guidance to employers interested in recruiting workers from other member states and in particular offer them , pro - actively , if possible , the following services :


### if employers are interested in further assistance and there is a reasonable likelihood of an intra - eu recruitment , the eures partners concerned provide further assistance , consisting of such services as the pre - selection of suitable candidates and assistance with providing translations and / or obtaining clarifications on specific job applications . ### if employers are interested in further assistance and there is a reasonable likelihood of an intra - eu recruitment , the eures partners concerned provide further assistance , consisting of such services as the pre - selection of suitable candidates and assistance with providing translations and / or obtaining clarifications on specific job applications , in particular in the fields in which there is a major labour shortage in the member state concerned .


### if workers are interested in further assistance and there is a reasonable likelihood of an intra - eu placement , the eures partners concerned provide further job search assistance , consisting of services such as the selection of suitable vacancies , assistance with drawing up job applications and cv ' s and providing translations and / or obtaining clarifications on specific job vacancies in other member states . ### if workers are interested in further assistance and there is a reasonable likelihood of an intra - eu placement , the eures partners concerned provide further job search assistance , consisting of services such as the selection of suitable vacancies , assistance with drawing up job applications and cvs and providing translations and / or obtaining clarifications on specific job vacancies in other member states , especially in fields in which there is a major labour shortage in the member state concerned .


### upon recruitment of a worker in another member state as a result of the services provided in accordance with this article , the eures partners concerned provide the person concerned with the contact details of organisations in the member state of destination which can offer post - recruitment assistance . ### upon recruitment of a worker in another member state as a result of the services provided in accordance with this article , the eures partners concerned provide the person concerned with the contact details of organisations , including the social partners , in the member state of destination which can offer post - recruitment assistance .


### facilitated access to information and services on social security ### facilitated access to information and services on health and social security


### upon request of workers , frontier workers and employers , the eures partners concerned shall provide general information on the rights related to social security and undertake to refer those requests for specific information to the competent authorities and , if applicable , other bodies supporting workers exercising their rights in the framework of the freedom of movement . ### the eures partners concerned shall provide general information on the rights related to social security . in addition , the border partnerships shall provide specific , multi - lingual information on particular types of employment . this information shall contain , inter alia , information on minimum standards in labour law , employment and health protection and minimum wages . requests for specific information shall be referred to the competent authorities and , if applicable , other bodies supporting workers exercising their rights in the framework of the freedom of movement .


### upon request of workers , frontier workers and employers , the eures partners concerned shall provide general information on the rights related to social security and undertake to refer those requests for specific information to the competent authorities and , if applicable , other bodies supporting workers exercising their rights in the framework of the freedom of movement . ### upon request of workers , frontier workers and employers , the eures partners concerned shall provide information on the rights related to social security and income taxation and undertake to refer those requests for specific information to the competent authorities and , if applicable , other bodies supporting workers exercising their rights in the framework of the freedom of movement .


### a member state shall not limit the access to national labour market measures merely for the reason that a worker seeks that assistance in order to find employment in the territory of another member state . ### in accordance with regulation no 492 / 2011 , a member state shall not limit the access to national labour market measures merely for the reason that a worker seeks that assistance in order to find employment in the territory of another member state .


### each member state shall , in particular , collect and analyse information on : ### each member state shall , in particular , collect and analyse gender - disaggregated information on :


### eures activities at national level ; ### eures activities at national and , where appropriate , cross - border level ;


### the position of the eures network on the market for recruitment services at national level as whole . ### the position of the eures network on the market for recruitment services at national level as whole and , where appropriate , at cross - border level .


### the main activities to be carried out in accordance with this regulation ; ### the main activities to be carried out in accordance with this regulation at national and , where appropriate , at cross - border level ;


### waste management in the union should be improved , with a view to protecting , preserving and improving the quality of the environment , protecting human health , ensuring prudent and rational utilisation of natural resources and promoting a more circular economy . ### waste management , transformation and use in the union should be improved , with a view to protecting , preserving and improving the quality of the environment , protecting human health , ensuring prudent and rational utilisation of natural resources and promoting a more circular economy , a better management of raw material , while making the economy less dependent on importations , reducing the energy dependency of the eu , providing new economic opportunities , new markets and promoting the creation of local jobs .


### many member states have yet to develop the necessary waste management infrastructure . it is therefore essential to set long - term policy objectives in order to guide measures and investments , notably by preventing the creation of structural overcapacities for the treatment of residual waste and lock - ins of recyclable materials at the bottom of the waste hierarchy . ### it is therefore essential for some member states to revise their existing waste prevention programmes in light of the new provisions of this directive and to adapt their investments to develop the necessary waste management infrastructure . it is therefore essential to set long - term policy objectives in order to guide measures and investments , notably by preventing the creation of structural overcapacities for the treatment of residual waste and lock - ins of recyclable materials at the bottom of the waste hierarchy .


### many member states have yet to develop the necessary waste management infrastructure . it is therefore essential to set long - term policy objectives in order to guide measures and investments , notably by preventing the creation of structural overcapacities for the treatment of residual waste and lock - ins of recyclable materials at the bottom of the waste hierarchy . ### many member states have yet to develop the necessary waste management infrastructure . it is therefore essential to set long - term policy objectives in order to guide measures and investments , notably by preventing the creation of structural overcapacities for the treatment of residual waste or for landfilling and lock - ins of recyclable materials at the lowest level of the waste hierarchy .


### definitions of municipal waste , construction and demolition waste , the final recycling process , and backfilling need to be included in directive 2008 / 98 / ec so that the scope of these concepts is clarified . ### definitions of municipal waste , construction and demolition waste , commercial and industrial waste , the final recycling process , littering and backfilling need to be included in directive 2008 / 98 / ec so that the scope of these concepts is clarified .


### member states should put in place adequate incentives for the application of the waste hierarchy , in particular , by means of financial incentives aimed at achieving the waste prevention and recycling objectives of this directive , such as landfill and incineration charges , pay as you throw schemes , extended producer responsibility schemes and incentives for local authorities . ### member states should put in place adequate incentives for the application of the waste hierarchy , in particular , by means of financial , fiscal and regulatory incentives aimed at achieving the waste prevention and recycling objectives of this directive , such as landfill and incineration charges , landfill ban , pay as you throw schemes , extended producer responsibility schemes , direct price support schemes , internalisation of positive and negative externalities linked to recycling and primary raw materials , policy of zero vat on the repair and sale of second - hand products , mandatory green public procurement and incentives for local authorities .


### waste prevention is the most efficient way to improve resource efficiency and to reduce the environmental impact of waste . it is important therefore that member states take appropriate measures to prevent waste generation and monitor and assess progress in the implementation of such measures . in order to ensure a uniform measurement of the overall progress in the implementation of waste prevention measures , common indicators should be established . ### waste prevention is the most efficient way to improve resource efficiency , to reduce the environmental impact of waste , and to decrease the dependence on imports of increasingly rare raw materials . it is important therefore that member states take appropriate measures to prevent waste generation , including measures that reduce the presence of hazardous substances , promote recycling of materials with high quality , combat planned obsolescence , increase consumer empowerment through improved product information , encourage continuous communication and regular education campaigns on waste prevention and monitor and assess progress in the implementation of such measures . in order to ensure a uniform measurement of the overall progress in the implementation of waste prevention measures , common indicators should be established .


### member states should , for the purposes of calculating whether the preparation for re - use and recycling targets are achieved , be able to take into account products and components that are prepared for re - use by recognised re - use operators and by deposit - refund schemes and the recycling of metals that takes place in conjunction with incineration . in order to ensure a uniform calculation of this data , the commission will adopt detailed rules on the determination of recognised preparation for re - use operators and deposit - refund schemes , on the quality criteria for recycled metals and on the collection , verification and reporting of data . ### member states should , for the purposes of calculating whether the preparation for re - use and recycling targets are achieved , be able to take into account products and components , or , as appropriate , packaging , that are prepared for re - use by recognised re - use operators and by deposit - refund schemes and the recycling of metals that takes place in conjunction with energy recovery and incineration . in order to ensure a uniform calculation of this data , the commission will adopt detailed rules on the determination of recognised preparation for re - use operators and deposit - refund schemes , on the quality criteria for recycled metals and on the collection , verification and reporting of data .


### proper management of hazardous waste still presents a problem in the union , and data on its treatment are partly missing . it is therefore necessary to strengthen record keeping and traceability mechanisms through the establishment of electronic registries for hazardous waste in the member states . electronic data collection should be extended to other types of waste , where appropriate , in order to simplify record - keeping for businesses and administrations and improve the monitoring of waste flows in the union . ### proper management of hazardous waste still presents a problem in the union , and data on its treatment are partly missing . it is therefore necessary to strengthen record keeping and traceability mechanisms through the establishment of electronic registries for hazardous waste in the member states . electronic data collection should be extended to other types of waste , as widely as possible , in order to simplify record - keeping for businesses and administrations and improve the monitoring of waste flows in the union .


### statistical data reported by member states are essential for the commission to assess compliance with waste legislation across the member states . the quality , reliability and comparability of statistics should be improved by introducing a single entry point for all waste data , deleting obsolete reporting requirements , benchmarking national reporting methodologies and introducing a data quality check report . therefore , when reporting on the achievement of the targets set out in waste legislation , member states shall use the most recent methodology developed by the commission and the national statistical offices of the member states . ### data reported by member states are essential for the commission to assess compliance with waste legislation across the member states . the quality , reliability and comparability of reported data should be improved by introducing a single entry point for all waste data , deleting obsolete reporting requirements , benchmarking national reporting methodologies and introducing a data quality check report . therefore , when reporting on the achievement of the targets set out in waste legislation , member states shall use the most recent methodology developed by the commission , the national statistical offices of the member states and the national authorities responsible for waste management .


### ' b ) animal by - products including processed products covered by regulation no 1774 / 2002 , except those which are destined for incineration , landfilling or use in a biogas or composting plant ; ' ### in article 2 point is replaced by the following : ' b ) animal by - products including processed products covered by regulation no 1774 / 2002 , except those which are destined for incineration or landfilling ; '


### the commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 38a in order to establish detailed criteria on the application of the conditions laid down in paragraph 1 to specific substances or objects . ### the commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 38a in order to establish detailed criteria on the application of the conditions laid down in paragraph 1 to specific substances or objects . those detailed criteria shall streamline the interactions between the conditions in paragraph 1 and existing legislations on waste , products and chemicals .


### such measures may encourage , inter alia , the development , production and marketing of products that are suitable for multiple use , that are technically durable and that are , after having become waste , suitable for preparation for re - use and recycling in order to facilitate proper implementation of the waste hierarchy . the measures should take into account the impact of products throughout their life cycle . ### such measures shall encourage , inter alia , the development , production and marketing of products that are suitable for multiple use , that are technically durable and easily repairable and that are , after having become waste , suitable for preparation for re - use and recycling in order to facilitate proper implementation of the waste hierarchy . the measures should take into account the impact of products throughout their life cycle .


### the commission shall organise an exchange of information between member states and the actors involved in producer responsibility schemes on the practical implementation of the requirements defined in article 8a and on best practices to ensure adequate governance and cross - border cooperation of extended producer responsibility schemes . this includes , inter alia , exchange of information on the organisational features and the monitoring of producer responsibility organisations , the selection of waste management operators and the prevention of littering . the commission shall publish the results of the exchange of information . ### the commission shall organise an exchange of information between member states and the actors involved in producer responsibility schemes on the practical implementation of the requirements defined in article 8a and on best practices to ensure adequate governance and cross - border cooperation of extended producer responsibility schemes . this includes , inter alia , exchange of information on the organisational features and the monitoring of producer responsibility organisations , the selection of waste management operators and the prevention of littering . the commission shall publish the results of the exchange of information and may provide guidelines on relevant aspects .


### - define in a clear way the roles and responsibilities of producers of products placing goods on the market of the union , organisations implementing extended producer responsibility on their behalf , private or public waste operators , local authorities and , where appropriate , recognised preparation for re - use operators ; ### - define in a clear way the roles and responsibilities of producers of products placing goods on the market of the union organisations implementing extended producer responsibility on their behalf , private or public waste operators , local authorities , distributors and retailers , and , where appropriate , recognised preparation for re - use operators ;


### - define measurable waste management targets , in line with the waste hierarchy , aiming to attain at least the quantitative targets relevant for the scheme as laid down in this directive , directive 94 / 62 / ec , directive 2000 / 53 / ec , directive 2006 / 66 / ec and directive 2012 / 19 / eu ; ### - define measurable waste management targets , in line with the waste hierarchy , aiming to attain at least the quantitative targets relevant for the scheme as laid down in this directive , directive 94 / 62 / ec , directive 2000 / 53 / ec , directive 2006 / 66 / ec and directive 2012 / 19 / eu and other objectives that are considered as relevant for the scheme ;


### - establish a reporting system to gather data on the products placed on the union market by the producers subject to extended producer responsibility . once these products become waste , the reporting system shall ensure that data is gathered on the collection and treatment of that waste specifying , where appropriate , the waste material flows ; ### - establish a reporting system to gather data on the products , or , as appropriate , packaging , placed on the union market by the producers subject to extended producer responsibility . once those products , or , as appropriate , packaging , become waste , the reporting system shall ensure that data is gathered on the collection and treatment of that waste specifying , where appropriate , the waste material flows ;


### cover the entire cost of waste management for the products it puts on the union market , including all the following : ### cover the entire cost of waste management for the products it puts on the union market , including all the following : costs of separate collection , sorting and treatment operations required to meet the waste management targets referred to in paragraph 1 , second indent .


### member states shall establish an adequate monitoring and enforcement framework with the view to ensure that the producers of products are implementing their extended producer responsibility obligations , the financial means are properly used , and all actors involved in the implementation of the scheme report reliable data . ### member states shall establish an adequate monitoring and enforcement framework with the view to ensure that the producers of products are implementing their extended producer responsibility obligations , the financial means are properly used , and all actors involved in the implementation of the scheme report reliable data . when a product is covered by an extended producer responsibility scheme , members states shall ensure that the treatment of the residual waste produced during the re - use and preparing for re - use process of this product is covered by the extended producer responsibility fee .


### prevention of waste ### re - use and prevention of waste


### - identify and target products that are the main sources of raw materials of a high importance to the economy of the union and whose supply is associated with a high risk to prevent that those materials become waste ; ### - identify and encourage the re - use of products containing a significant amount of critical raw materials , whose supply is associated with a high risk , also with regard to security of supply , to prevent that those materials become waste ;


### - reduce waste generation in processes related to industrial production , extraction of minerals and construction and demolition , taking into account best available techniques ; ### - reduce waste generation in processes related to industrial production , extraction of minerals and construction and demolition , taking into account best available techniques , unless they are already subject to the requirements of directive 2010 / 75 / eu , and adopting industrial symbiosis solutions through the use of by - products and recovery and recycling of waste ;


### - reduce waste generation in processes related to industrial production , extraction of minerals and construction and demolition , taking into account best available techniques ; ### - promote resource efficiency to reduce waste generation in processes related to industrial production , extraction of minerals and construction and demolition , taking into account best available techniques ;


### member states shall monitor and assess the implementation of the waste prevention measures . for that purpose , they shall use appropriate qualitative or quantitative indicators and targets , notably on the per capita quantity of municipal waste that is disposed of or subject to energy recovery . ### member states shall monitor and assess the implementation of the waste prevention measures . for that purpose , they shall use appropriate qualitative or quantitative indicators and targets , notably on the per capita quantity of municipal waste that is disposed of or subject to energy recovery . they may also use additional qualitative or quantitative indicators including those which monitor the generation of waste other than municipal waste .


### ' 1 . without prejudice to the obligations related to the management of hazardous waste laid down in articles 18 and 19 , member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure that : waste oils are collected separately , where this is technically feasible ; waste oils are treated in accordance with articles 4 and 13 ; where this is technically feasible and economically viable , waste oils of different characteristics are not mixed and waste oils are not mixed with other kinds of waste or substances , if such mixing impedes their treatment . 2 . for the purposes of separate collection of waste oils and their proper treatment , member states may , according to their national conditions , apply additional measures such as technical requirements , producer responsibility , economic instruments or voluntary agreements . 3 . if waste oils , according to national legislation , are subject to requirements of regeneration , member states may prescribe that such waste oils shall be regenerated if technically feasible and , where articles 11 or 12 of regulation no 1013 / 2006 apply , restrict the transboundary shipment of waste oils from their territory to incineration or co - incineration facilities in order to give priority to the regeneration of waste oils . ' ### article 21 is replaced by the following : ' 1 . without prejudice to the obligations related to the management of hazardous waste laid down in articles 18 and 19 , member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure that : waste oils are collected separately , where this is technically feasible ; waste oils are treated in accordance with articles 4 , 11 and 13 ; where this is technically feasible and economically viable , waste oils of different characteristics are not mixed and waste oils are not mixed with other kinds of waste or substances , if such mixing impedes their treatment . 2 . in furtherance of the targets set out in article 11 for the collection and regeneration of waste oils and for the purposes of separate collection of waste oils and their proper treatment , member states may , according to their national conditions , apply additional measures such as technical requirements , producer responsibility , economic instruments or voluntary agreements . 3 . where articles 11 or 12 of regulation no 1013 / 2006 apply , member states shall restrict the transboundary shipment of waste oils from their territory to incineration or co - incineration facilities in order to give priority to the regeneration of waste oils . '


### calculation method for preparing for re - use of products and components for the purpose of article 11 and and article 11 ### calculation method for the recycling of municipal waste for the purpose of article 11 and and article 11


### in order to calculate the adjusted rate of recycling and preparation for re - use in accordance with article 11 and and article 11 , member states shall use the following formula : ### in order to calculate the adjusted rate of recycling in accordance with article 11 and and article 11 , member states shall use the following formula :


### the esf + should support member states’ efforts to tackle poverty with a view to breaking the cycle of disadvantage across generations and promote social inclusion by ensuring equal opportunities for all , tackling discrimination and addressing health inequalities . this implies mobilising a range of policies targeting the most disadvantaged people regardless of their age , including children , marginalised communities such as the roma , and the working poor . the esf + should promote the active inclusion of people far from the labour market with a view to ensuring their socio - economic integration . the esf + should be also used to enhance timely and equal access to affordable , sustainable and high quality services such as healthcare and long - term care , in particular family and community - based care services . the esf + should contribute to the modernisation of social protection systems with a view in particular to promoting their accessibility . ### the esf + should support member states’ efforts to tackle poverty with a view to breaking the cycle of disadvantage across generations and promote social inclusion by ensuring equal opportunities for all , tackling discrimination and addressing health and education inequalities . this implies mobilising a range of policies targeting the most disadvantaged people regardless of their age , including children , marginalised communities such as the roma , the working poor and especially people in the rural areas . the esf + should promote the active inclusion of people far from the labour market with a view to ensuring their socio - economic integration . the esf + should be also used to enhance timely and equal access to affordable , sustainable and high quality services such as healthcare and long - term care , in particular family and community - based care services . the esf + should contribute to the modernisation of social protection systems with a view in particular to promoting their accessibility .


### the esf + should support policy and system reforms in the fields of employment , social inclusion , healthcare and long - term care , and education and training . in order to strengthen alignment with the european semester , member states should allocate an appropriate amount of their resources of the esf + strand under shared management to implement relevant country - specific recommendations relating to structural challenges which it is appropriate to address through multiannual investments falling within the scope of the esf + . the commission and the member states should ensure coherence , coordination and complementarity between the shared - management and health strands of esf + and the reform support programme , including the reform delivery tool and the technical support instrument . in particular , the commission and the member state should ensure , in all stages of the process , effective coordination in order to safeguard the consistency , coherence , complementarity and synergy among sources of funding , including technical assistance thereof . ### the esf + should support policy and system reforms in the fields of employment , social inclusion , healthcare and long - term care , and education and professional training . in order to strengthen alignment with the european semester , member states should allocate an appropriate amount of their resources of the esf + strand under shared management to implement relevant country - specific recommendations relating to structural challenges which it is appropriate to address through multiannual investments falling within the scope of the esf + . the commission and the member states should ensure coherence , coordination and complementarity between the shared - management and health strands of esf + and the reform support programme , including the reform delivery tool and the technical support instrument . in particular , the commission and the member state should ensure , in all stages of the process , effective coordination in order to safeguard the consistency , coherence , complementarity and synergy among sources of funding , including technical assistance thereof .


### with a view to rendering policies more responsive to social change and to encourage and support innovative solutions , support for social innovation is crucial . in particular , testing and evaluating innovative solutions before scaling them up is instrumental in improving the efficiency of the policies and thus justifies specific support from the esf + . ### with a view to rendering policies more responsive and better adapted to social change and to encourage and support innovative solutions , support for social innovation is crucial . in particular , testing and evaluating innovative solutions before scaling them up is instrumental in improving the efficiency of the policies and thus justifies specific support from the esf + .


### the member states and the commission should ensure that esf + contributes to the promotion of equality between women and men in accordance with article 8 tfeu to foster equality of treatment and opportunities between women and men in all areas , including regarding participation in the labour market , terms and conditions of employment and career progression . they should also ensure that the esf + promotes equal opportunities for all , without discrimination in accordance with article 10 tfeu and promotes the inclusion in society of persons with disabilities on equal basis with others and contributes to the implementation of the united nations convention on the rights of persons with disabilities . these principles should be taken into account in all dimensions and in all stages of the preparation , monitoring , implementation and evaluation of programmes , in a timely and consistent manner while ensuring that specific actions are taken to promote gender equality and equal opportunities . the esf + should also promote the transition from residential / institutional care to family and community - based care , in particular for those who face multiple discrimination . the esf + should not support any action that contributes to segregation or to social exclusion . regulation no [ future cpr ] provides that rules on eligibility of expenditure are to be established at national level , with certain exceptions for which it is necessary to lay down specific provisions with regard to the esf + strand under shared management . ### in line with the charter of fundamental rights of the european union , the member states and the commission should ensure that esf + contributes to the promotion of equality between women and men in accordance with article 8 tfeu to foster non - discrimination and equality of treatment and opportunities between women and men in all areas , including regarding participation in the labour market , terms and conditions of employment and career progression . the gender aspect should be taken into account in all dimensions and in all stages of the planning and implementation of programmes . the member states and the commission should also ensure that the esf + promotes equal opportunities for all , without discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age , sexual orientation , sex characteristics or gender identity , based on article 10 tfeu and promotes the inclusion in society of persons with disabilities on equal basis with others and contributes to the implementation of the united nations convention on the rights of persons with disabilities . these principles should be taken into account in all dimensions and in all stages of the preparation , monitoring , implementation and evaluation of programmes , in a timely and consistent manner while ensuring that specific actions are taken to promote gender equality and equal opportunities . the esf + should also promote the transition from residential / institutional care to family and community - based care , in particular for those who face multiple and intersectional discrimination . the esf + should not support any action that contributes to segregation or to social exclusion . regulation no [ future cpr ] provides that rules on eligibility of expenditure are to be established at national level , with certain exceptions for which it is necessary to lay down specific provisions with regard to the esf + strand under shared management .


### in order to reduce the administrative burden for the collection of data , member states should , where such data are available in registers , allow managing authorities to collect data from registers . ### in order to reduce the administrative burden for the collection of data , member states should , where such data are available in registers , allow managing authorities to collect data from registers while respecting the protection of personal data in accordance to the general data protection regulation .


### the health strand of the esf + should contribute to disease prevention throughout the lifetime of the union ' s citizens and to health promotion by addressing health risk factors such as tobacco use and passive smoking , harmful use of alcohol , consumption of illicit drugs and reduction of drugs - related health damage , unhealthy dietary habits and physical inactivity and foster supportive environments for healthy lifestyles in order to complement member states action in line with the relevant strategies . the health strand of the esf + should mainstream effective prevention models , innovative technologies and new business models and solutions to contribute to innovative , efficient and sustainable health systems of the member states and facilitate access to better and safer healthcare for european citizens . ### the health strand of the esf + should contribute to disease prevention throughout the lifetime of the union ' s citizens and to health promotion by addressing prevention and health risk factors such as tobacco use and passive smoking , harmful use of alcohol , consumption of illicit drugs and reduction of drugs - related health damage , unhealthy dietary habits and physical inactivity and foster supportive environments for healthy lifestyles in order to complement member states action in line with the relevant strategies . the health strand of the esf + should mainstream effective prevention models , innovative technologies and new business models and solutions to contribute to innovative , efficient and sustainable health systems of the member states and facilitate access to better and safer healthcare for european citizens .


### the commission has recently made a proposal18 on health technology assessment to support cooperation on health technology assessment at union level to improve the availability of innovative health technologies to patients across the union , make better use of available resources and improve business predictability . __________________ 18 com 51 final ### the commission has recently made a proposal18 on health technology assessment to support cooperation on health technology assessment at union level to improve the availability of and accessibility to innovative health technologies to patients across the union , make better use of available resources and improve business predictability . __________________ 18 com 51 final


### eu health legislation has an immediate impact on the lives of citizen , on the efficiency and resilience of the health systems and the good functioning of the internal market . the regulatory framework for medical products and technologies , as well as on tobacco legislation , patients ' rights on cross - border health and serious cross - border threats to health is essential to health protection in the eu . regulation , as well its implementation and enforcement , must keep pace with innovation and research advances and with societal changes in this area , while delivering on health objectives . it is therefore necessary to continuously develop the evidence base required for implementing legislation of such a scientific nature . ### eu health legislation has an immediate impact on the lives of citizen , on the efficiency and resilience of the health systems and the good functioning of the internal market . the regulatory framework for medical products and technologies , as well as on tobacco legislation , patients ' rights on cross - border health and serious cross - border threats to health is essential to health protection in the eu . regulation , as well its implementation and enforcement , must keep pace with innovation and research advances and with societal changes in this area , while delivering on health objectives in all member states . it is therefore necessary to continuously develop the evidence base required for implementing legislation of such a scientific nature , across the entire union .


### the esf + aims to support member states to achieve high employment levels , fair social protection and a skilled and resilient workforce ready for the future world of work , in line with the principles set out in the european pillar of social rights proclaimed by the european parliament , the council and the commission on 17 november 2017 . ### the esf + aims to support member states to achieve high employment levels , fair social protection , an appropriate level of health and a skilled and resilient workforce ready for the future world of work , in line with the principles set out in the european pillar of social rights proclaimed by the european parliament , the council and the commission on 17 november 2017 and with the real demands of the labour market .


### the esf + shall support , complement and add value to the policies of the member states to ensure equal opportunities , access to the labour market , fair working conditions , social protection and inclusion , and a high level of human health protection . ### the esf + shall support , complement and add value to the policies of the member states to ensure equal opportunities , non - discrimination , equal access to the labour market , fair working conditions , social protection and inclusion for all , and a high level of human health protection . all actions under the esf + shall respect the charter of fundamental rights of the european union .


### the esf + shall support the following specific objectives in the policy areas of employment , education , social inclusion and health and thereby also contributing to the policy objective for &#8220 ; a more social europe - implementing the european pillar of social rights&#8221 ; set out in article [ 4 ] of the [ future cpr ] : ### the esf + shall support the following specific objectives in the policy areas of employment , education , poverty eradication , social inclusion and health and thereby also contributing to the policy objective for &#8220 ; a non - discriminatory , inclusive and more social europe - implementing the european pillar of social rights and eliminating poverty and social exclusion&#8221 ; set out in article [ 4 ] of the [ future cpr ] :


### promoting lifelong learning , notably flexible upskilling and reskilling opportunities for all taking into account digital skills , better anticipating change and new skills requirements based on labour market needs , facilitating career transitions and promoting professional mobility ; ### promoting lifelong learning , notably flexible upskilling and reskilling opportunities for all taking into account digital skills , better anticipating change and new skills requirements based on labour market needs , facilitating career transitions , vocational training and promoting professional mobility ;


### addressing material deprivation through food and / or basic material assistance to the most deprived , including accompanying measures . ### addressing material deprivation through food and / or basic material assistance to the most deprived , with an emphasis on children in vulnerable situation , including accompanying measures .


### member states having a rate of young people aged 15 to 29 not in employment , education or training above the union average in 2019 on the basis of eurostat data , shall allocate at least 10% of their esf + resources under shared management for the years 2021 to 2025 to targeted actions and structural reforms to support youth employment and school - to - work transition , pathways to reintegrate into education or training and second chance education , in particular in the context of implementing youth guarantee schemes . ### member states having a rate of young people aged 15 to 29 not in employment , education or training above the union average in 2019 on the basis of eurostat data , shall allocate at least 15% of their esf + resources under shared management for the years 2021 to 2025 to targeted actions and structural reforms to support youth employment and school - to - work transition , pathways to reintegrate into education or training and second chance education , in particular in the context of implementing youth guarantee schemes .


### when programming the esf + resources under shared management for 2026 and 2027 at mid - term in accordance with article [ 14 ] of [ the future cpr ] , member states having a rate of young people aged 15 to 29 not in employment , education or training above the union average in 2024 on the basis of eurostat data , shall allocate at least 10% of their esf + resources under shared management for the years 2026 to 2027 to these actions . ### when programming the esf + resources under shared management for 2026 and 2027 at mid - term in accordance with article [ 14 ] of [ the future cpr ] , member states having a rate of young people aged 15 to 29 not in employment , education or training above the union average in 2024 on the basis of eurostat data , shall allocate at least 15% of their esf + resources under shared management for the years 2026 to 2027 to these actions .


### any legal entity created under union law or any international organisation . ### any legal entity created under union law or any international organisation operating within the union .


### regulatory obstacles in the internal market have been removed for many industrial products through prevention mechanisms , the adoption of common rules and , where no such union rules exist , through the principle of mutual recognition . in areas where no union legislation exists , the principle of mutual recognition means that goods that are lawfully marketed in one member state enjoy the right to free movement and can be sold in another member state . however , inadequate application of mutual recognition makes it harder for companies to access markets in other member states . despite the high degree of market integration in the area of goods , this leads to lost opportunities for the economy at large . the programme should therefore aim to improve the application of mutual recognition in the area of goods and to reduce the number of illegal and non - compliant goods entering the market . ### regulatory obstacles in the internal market have been removed for many industrial products through prevention mechanisms , the adoption of common rules and , where no such union rules exist , through the principle of mutual recognition . in areas where no union legislation exists , the principle of mutual recognition means that goods that are lawfully marketed in one member state enjoy the right to free movement and can be sold in another member state . however , inadequate application of mutual recognition makes it harder for companies to access markets in other member states , especially in the case of companies operating across borders . despite the high degree of market integration in the area of goods , this leads to lost opportunities for the economy at large . the programme should therefore aim to improve the application of mutual recognition in the area of goods and to reduce the number of illegal and non - compliant goods entering the market .


### placing on the market of products that are not compliant with union law puts those who comply at disadvantage and may endanger consumers . many entrepreneurs disregard the rules either through lack of knowledge or intentionally to gain a competitive advantage . market surveillance authorities are often underfunded and constrained by national boundaries , while entrepreneurs trade at union or even global level . in particular , in the case of e - commerce , market surveillance authorities have great difficulties in tracing non - compliant products imported from third countries and identifying the responsible entity within their jurisdiction . the programme should therefore seek to strengthen product compliance by providing the right incentives to entrepreneurs , intensifying compliance checks and promoting closer cross - border cooperation among enforcement authorities . the programme should also contribute to the consolidation of the existing framework for market surveillance activities , encourage joint actions of market surveillance authorities from different member states , improve the exchange of information and promote convergence and closer integration of market surveillance activities . ### placing on the market of products that are not compliant with union law or type - approved puts those who comply at a disadvantage and may endanger consumers . many entrepreneurs disregard the rules either through lack of knowledge or intentionally to gain a competitive advantage . market surveillance authorities are often underfunded and constrained by national boundaries , while entrepreneurs trade at union level , at a cross - border level , or even at a global level . in particular , in the case of e - commerce , market surveillance authorities have great difficulties in tracing non - compliant products imported from third countries and identifying the responsible entity within their jurisdiction . the programme should therefore seek to strengthen product compliance by providing the right incentives to entrepreneurs , intensifying compliance checks and promoting closer cross - border cooperation among enforcement authorities . the programme should also contribute to the consolidation of the existing framework for market surveillance activities , encourage joint actions of market surveillance authorities from different member states , improve the exchange of information and promote convergence and closer integration of market surveillance activities .


### as consumer markets know no borders with the development of online trade and travel services , it is important to ensure that consumers residing in the union can benefit from adequate protection when importing goods and services from economic operators based in third countries . the programme should therefore allow supporting cooperation with relevant bodies located in key trading third country partners of the union where necessary . ### as consumer markets know no borders with the constant rapid development of online trade and travel services , it is important to ensure that consumers residing in the union can benefit from adequate protection when importing goods and services from economic operators based in third countries . the programme should therefore allow supporting cooperation with relevant bodies located in key trading third country partners of the union where necessary .


### in order to meet the objectives of the programme and to facilitate the lives of citizens and businesses , high - quality user - centric public services need to be put in place . this implies that public administrations will need to start working in new ways , bring down silos between the different parts of their administrations , and to engage in the co - creation of these public services with citizens and businesses . moreover , the continuous and steady increase of cross - border activities in the internal market requires provision of up - to - date information on the rights of businesses and citizens , but also information explaining the administrative formalities . in addition , provision of legal advice and helping to solve problems which occur at cross national level becomes essential . furthermore , connecting national administrations in a simple and efficient manner as well as evaluating how the internal market works on the ground is necessary . the programme should therefore support the following existing internal market governance tools : the your europe portal which should be a backbone of the upcoming single digital gateway , your europe advice , solvit , the internal market information system and the single market scoreboard in order to improve citizens ' daily lives and businesses ' ability to trade across borders . ### in order to meet the objectives of the programme and to facilitate the lives of citizens and businesses , high - quality user - centric public services need to be put in place in all fields . this implies that public administrations will need to start working in new ways , bring down silos between the different parts of their administrations , and to engage in the co - creation of these public services with citizens and businesses at local , regional , cross - border and national level . moreover , the continuous and steady increase of cross - border activities in the internal market requires the regular provision of up - to - date information on the rights and obligations of businesses and citizens , but also information explaining the administrative formalities and taxes inherent in the respective activities . in addition , provision of legal advice and helping to solve problems which occur at cross national level becomes essential . furthermore , connecting regional and national administrations , where appropriate , in a simple and efficient manner as well as evaluating how the internal market works on the ground is necessary . the programme should therefore support the following existing internal market governance tools : the your europe portal which should be a backbone of the upcoming single digital gateway , your europe advice , solvit , the internal market information system and the single market scoreboard in order to improve citizens ' daily lives and businesses ' ability to trade across borders .


### smes share common challenges that do not affect larger firms to the same extent to obtain finance , to find skilled work force , to alleviate administrative burden , to take - up creativity and innovation , to access markets and foster internationalisation activities . the programme should address such market failures proportionally , while not unduly distorting competition in the internal market . ### smes share common challenges that do not affect larger firms to the same extent to obtain finance , to find skilled work force , to alleviate administrative burden , to take - up creativity and innovation , to access markets and foster internationalisation activities . special attention should be paid to smes in regions with constraints , such as mountain areas and the outermost regions , where smes are the only source of economic activity and employment . the programme should address such market failures proportionally , while not unduly distorting competition in the internal market .


### the programme should provide effective support for smes throughout their life - cycle . it should build on the unique knowledge and expertise developed with regard to smes and industrial sectors and on a long experience in working with european , national and regional stakeholders . this support should build on the successful experience of the enterprise europe network as a one - stop - shop to improve smes competitiveness and develop their business in the single market and beyond . the network plans to continue delivering services on behalf of other union programmes , notably for the horizon2020 programme , using the financial resources of these programmes . also the mentoring scheme for new entrepreneurs should remain the tool to enable new or aspiring entrepreneurs to gain business experience by matching with an experienced entrepreneur from another country and thus allow strengthening entrepreneurial talents . the programme should further strive to grow and extend its geographical coverage and thus offer wider range of matching possibilities to entrepreneurs in complementarity with other union initiatives where relevant . ### the programme should provide effective support for smes throughout their life - cycle , without any gender discrimination and with a focus on encouraging young people from rural areas to pursue entrepreneurial activities and hence prevent rural depopulation . it should build on the unique knowledge and expertise developed with regard to smes and industrial sectors and on a long experience in working with european , national and regional stakeholders . this support should build on the successful experience of the enterprise europe network as a one - stop - shop to improve smes competitiveness and develop their business in the single market and beyond . the network plans to continue delivering services on behalf of other union programmes , notably for the horizon2020 programme , using the financial resources of these programmes . also the mentoring scheme for new entrepreneurs should remain the tool to enable new or aspiring entrepreneurs to gain business experience by matching with an experienced entrepreneur from another country and thus allow strengthening entrepreneurial talents . the programme should further strive to grow and extend its geographical coverage and thus offer wider range of matching possibilities to entrepreneurs in complementarity with other union initiatives where relevant .


### a high level of health protection through the food supply chain is necessary to allow the internal market to operate efficiently . a safe and sustainable food supply chain is a prerequisite for society and for the internal market . cross border health crises and food scares disrupt the functioning of the internal market by limiting the movements of persons and goods and disrupting production . ### a high level of health protection through the agricultural and food supply chain is necessary to allow the internal market to operate efficiently . a safe and sustainable agricultural and food supply chain is a prerequisite for society and for the internal market . cross border health crises and food scares disrupt the functioning of the internal market by limiting the movements of persons and goods and disrupting production . in order to prevent cross border health crises and food scares , the programme should support concrete actions , such as establishing emergency measures in the event of crisis situations and unforeseeable events affecting animal and plant health .


### official controls carried out by the member states are an essential tool for verifying and monitoring that relevant union requirements are being implemented , complied with and enforced . the effectiveness and efficiency of official control systems is vital for maintaining a high level of safety for humans , animals and plants along the food chain whilst ensuring a high level of protection of the environment and of animal welfare . union financial support should be made available for such control measures . in particular , a financial contribution should be available to union reference laboratories in order to help them bear the costs arising from the implementation of work programmes approved by the commission . moreover , since the effectiveness of official controls also depends on the availability to the control authorities of well trained staff with an appropriate knowledge of union law , the union should be able to contribute to their training and relevant exchange programmes organised by competent authorities . ### in view of an increasingly globalised agricultural and food supply chain , official controls carried out by the member states are an essential tool for verifying and monitoring that relevant union requirements are being implemented , complied with and enforced , in particular with regard to imported agricultural and food products . the effectiveness and efficiency of official control systems is vital for maintaining a high level of safety for humans , animals and plants along the food chain whilst ensuring a high level of protection of the environment and of animal welfare . union financial support should be made available for such control measures . in particular , a financial contribution should be available to union reference laboratories in order to help them bear the costs arising from the implementation of work programmes approved by the commission . moreover , since the effectiveness of official controls also depends on the availability to the control authorities of well trained staff with an appropriate knowledge of union law , the union should be able to contribute to their training and relevant exchange programmes organised by competent authorities .


### this regulation establishes the programme for improving the functioning of the internal market and the competitiveness of enterprises , including micro , small and medium - sized enterprises and the framework for financing of development , production and dissemination of european statistics within the meaning of article 13 of regulation no 223 / 2009 . ### this regulation establishes the single market programme for strengthening the internal market and improving its functioning in the fields of competitiveness of enterprises , especially micro , small and medium - sized enterprises , agricultural and food supply chain and the framework for financing of development , production and dissemination of european statistics .


### to improve the functioning of the internal market , and especially to protect and empower citizens , consumers and businesses , in particular micro , small and medium - sized enterprises , by enforcement of union law , facilitation of market access , standard setting , and by promoting human , animal and plant health and animal welfare ; as well as to enhance cooperation between the competent authorities of member states and between the competent authorities of member states and the commission and the decentralised union agencies ; ### to improve territorial cohesion , the functioning of the internal market , and especially to protect and empower citizens , consumers and businesses , in particular micro , small and medium - sized enterprises , by enforcement of union law , facilitation of market access , standard setting , and by promoting human , animal and plant health and animal welfare ; as well as to enhance cooperation between the competent authorities of member states and between the competent authorities of member states and the commission and the decentralised union agencies ;


### contributing to a high level of health for humans , animals and plants along the food chain and in related areas , including by preventing and eradicating diseases and pests , and to support the improvement of the welfare of animals as well as a sustainable food production and consumption ; ### contributing to a high level of health for humans , animals and plants along the agricultural and food supply chain and in related areas , including by preventing and eradicating diseases and pests , also by means of emergency measures in the event of large - scale crisis situations and unforeseeable events affecting animal or plant health , and to support the improvement of the welfare of animals as well as a sustainable agri - food production and consumption ;


### grants under the programme shall be awarded and managed in accordance with title viii of the financial regulation . ### grants under the programme shall be awarded and managed in accordance with title viii of the financial regulation . the commission shall publish work programmes adopted for each of the specific objectives referred in article 2 specifying the amount of grants to be allocated .


### fostering an entrepreneurial business environment and entrepreneurial culture , including the mentoring scheme for new entrepreneurs and supporting start - ups , business sustainability and scale - ups . ### fostering an entrepreneurial business environment and entrepreneurial culture , especially among women and young people , with the focus on young people in rural areas , including the mentoring scheme for new entrepreneurs and supporting start - ups , business sustainability and scale - ups and the creation of new services .