### 10. stresses that child marriages make girls vulnerable to violence and abuse; points out that at least three million girls are at risk of genital mutilation every year; calls for integrated action to prevent female genital mutilation and forced marriages; ### 10. stresses that child marriages make girls particularly vulnerable to violence and abuse; points out that at least three million girls are at risk of genital mutilation every year; calls for integrated action to prevent female genital mutilation and forced marriages;


### 11. points out that the victims of trafficking and sexual exploitation are mainly women and girls; calls for increased international cooperation to end the practices resulting in such forms of enslavement; ### 11. points out that the victims of trafficking and sexual exploitation are mainly women and girls; calls for increased international cooperation to end the practices resulting in such forms of enslavement; stresses that the vulnerability of women and girls to trafficking and sexual exploitation is exacerbated in conflict and emergency situations;


### 12. expresses concern at the rise of conservative rhetoric and organised religious and other groupings , which is threatening to undermine sexual and reproductive rights inside and outside the union; ### 12. expresses concern at the rise of conservative rhetoric and organised religious and other groupings , which is threatening to undermine the access to sexual and reproductive health and rights inside and outside the european union;


### 13. calls for gap iii to attach greater importance to these rights and for adequate funding to be allocated to them when programming the ‘europe in the world’ instrument; ### 13. calls for gap iii to attach greater importance to these rights and for adequate , flexible and sustained funding to be allocated to them when programming the ‘europe in the world’ instrument;


### 14. stresses the importance of sexual and reproductive rights with regard to women’s bodies and their autonomy and urges that they be treated as public health issues; calls for universal access to sexual education , contraception and safe and legal abortion; ### 14. stresses the importance of sexual and reproductive health and rights with regard to women’s and girls’ bodies and their autonomy and urges that they be treated as human rights; calls for universal access to sexual education , contraception and safe and legal abortion;


### 15. calls for measures to prevent girls from missing school during their periods by improving menstrual hygiene facilities on school premises and by combating stigmatisation in this area; ### 15. calls for measures to prevent girls from missing school during their periods by improving menstrual hygiene facilities on school premises , combating stigmatisation in this area and tackling period poverty;


### 16. draws attention to the inequalities and disparities between women and men regarding access to healthcare and the quality of healthcare provided; calls for universal access to facilities for the prevention , diagnosis , care and treatment of female and sexually transmitted diseases; ### 16. draws attention to the intersectional inequalities and disparities between women and men regarding access to healthcare and the quality of healthcare provided; calls for universal access to facilities for the prevention , diagnosis , care and treatment of female and sexually transmitted diseases;


### 17. reiterates that the crisis is affecting women’s access to the labour market; stresses the need for the inclusion of a gender dimension in all recovery plans; ### 17. reiterates that the economic and societal crisis resulting from the covid-19 pandemic is affecting women’s access to the labour market and to their livelihoods; stresses the need for the eu to support the development of gender-sensitive post-pandemic recovery plans in partner countries;


### 18. calls for gap iii to promote women’s economic activity and their access to the necessary resources and social protection; calls for measures to help make women more employable and provide them with business opportunities; ### 18. calls for gap iii to promote women’s economic activity and their access to the necessary resources and social protection , especially in emergency contexts; calls for measures to help make women more employable and provide them with decent jobs , access to finance and business opportunities;


### 18. calls for gap iii to promote women’s economic activity and their access to the necessary resources and social protection; calls for measures to help make women more employable and provide them with business opportunities; ### 18. calls for gap iii to promote women’s economic activity by upholding men’s and women’s shared responsibilities for unpaid care and domestic work and to improve access to welfare mechanisms and social protection; such as affordable child and elderly care;


### 19. calls for a comprehensive effort to provide girls with access to education and quality training tailored to the needs of the labour market; ### 19. calls for a comprehensive effort to provide women and girls with access to education and quality training on skills that can contribute to their access to the labour market; welcomes the intention to increase overall funding for education , with 10 % of the humanitarian aid budget to be devoted to funding for education in emergencies;


### 19. calls for a comprehensive effort to provide girls with access to education and quality training tailored to the needs of the labour market; ### 19. calls for a comprehensive effort to provide girls with meaningful access to education and quality training , particularly in emergency and displacement settings;


### 20. notes that women are under-represented at every level of political and public life; calls for programme funding to promote the training and participation of women; ### 20. notes that women are under-represented at every level of political and public life; calls for programme funding to promote the participation of women;


### 21. stresses the importance of the contribution made by women to promoting dialogue , forging coalitions and mediating for peace; calls on the eu to promote greater participation by women in peacekeeping and further peacebuilding; ### 21. stresses the importance of the contribution made by women and civil society to promote dialogue , forging coalitions and mediating for peace; calls on the eu to promote greater participation by women , girls and civil society in peacekeeping and further peacebuilding;


### 22. stresses the need to ensure that women and girls who have suffered sexual violence in conflict zones receive holistic care and treatment; ### 22. stresses the need to ensure that women and girls who have suffered sexual violence in conflict zones and countries receive appropriate and holistic care and treatment;


### 23. reiterates the need to combat the use of sexual violence as a weapon of war and to combat impunity; ### 23. deplores the use of sexual violence as a weapon of war and calls on the urgent need to combat it as well as to combat impunity by bringing perpetrators to justice;


### 24. appreciates the eu’s determination to address gender issues in the context of the green transition , given the disproportionate impact of climate change on women and girls; ### 24. stresses the importance of addressing gender issues in the context of the implementation of the climate law and the green transition , given the intersectional and disproportionate impact of climate change on women and girls;


### 25. points out that women are at the forefront when it comes to expertise in the fields of agriculture , climate and biodiversity; calls for them to be given support in the form of funding , legislative framework provisions and access to resources; ### 25. points out that women are at the forefront when it comes to expertise in the fields of agriculture , climate and biodiversity; calls for them to be given support in the form of adequate and flexible funding , legislative framework provisions and access to resources;


### 27. stresses the need for digital platforms to be suitably regulated in order to combat gender-based online violence and cyberbullying; calls for greater involvement of women in the design , manufacture and development of artificial intelligence applications in order to combat the perpetuation of gender stereotyping and prejudice; ### 27. stresses the need for digital platforms to be suitably regulated in order to combat gender based online violence and cyberbullying; recognises that girls and women who identify as lgbtiq+ , those from an ethnic minority , and adolescent girls report higher rates of online harassment; calls for targeted protection mechanisms for vulnerable groups online and their involvement in the design , manufacture and development of artificial intelligence applications in order to combat the perpetuation of gender stereotyping and prejudice;


### 28. reiterates the need for the eu to play a leading role at multilateral level in promoting feminist diplomacy; ### 28. reiterates the need for the eu to play a leading role at multilateral level in promoting feminist diplomacy and foreign- and development policy;


### 30. recalls the commission’s commitment to earmark eur 4 billion from the external budget for women and girls and to increase funding for women’s organisations; calls for these commitments to be clarified; ### 30. recalls the commission’s commitment to earmark eur 4 billion from the external budget for women and girls and to increase funding for women’s organisations; calls for these commitments to be clarified and adequately monitored;


### 30. recalls the commission’s commitment to earmark eur 4 billion from the external budget for women and girls and to increase funding for women’s organisations; calls for these commitments to be clarified; ### 30. recalls the commission’s commitment to earmark eur 4 billion from the external budget for women and girls and to increase funding for women’s organisations; calls for these commitments to be translated into practice;


### 31. points out once again that intergenerational dialogue and commitment on the part of men and boys are crucial to bringing about societal change and creating a true generation equality; ### 31. points out once again that intergenerational dialogue and the inclusions of as well as the commitment of men and boys to advance gender equality are crucial to bringing about societal change and creating a true generation equality;


### 1. urges a shift away from trade-oriented agricultural policies and towards support for food sovereignty and local and regional markets; recalls that agroecology’s capacity to reconcile the economic , environmental and social dimensions of sustainability has been widely recognised; ### 1. urges the utmost prioritisation of support for food sovereignty , local and regional markets; calls for the support of local production and consumption that ensure local employment creation , assure fair prices , guarantee the protection of workers’ health and safety , lessen countries' dependency on imports and their vulnerability to international price fluctuations; recalls that agroecology’s capacity to reconcile the economic , environmental and social dimensions of sustainability has been widely recognised;


### 4. emphasises the importance of recognising the significant impact of agriculture and especially animal production on greenhouse gas (ghg) emissions and land use; stresses the need to enhance natural carbon sinks and reduce agricultural emissions of carbon dioxide , methane and nitrous oxide , in particular in the feed and livestock sectors; calls for regulatory measures and targets to ensure progressive reductions in all ghg emissions in these sectors; ### 4. emphasises the importance of recognising the significant impact of agriculture and especially animal production on greenhouse gas (ghg) emissions , biodiversity loss and land use; stresses the need to enhance natural carbon sinks and reduce agricultural emissions of carbon dioxide , methane and nitrous oxide , in particular in the feed and livestock sectors; calls for regulatory measures and legally binding eu-level and national targets for emissions from agriculture and related land use as part of the “fit for 55” package to ensure ambitious reductions in all ghg emissions in these sectors in the eu but also addressing embedded land use emissions from imported feed and food , and calls for a significant reduction of the amount of animals kept for intensive farming;


### 4. emphasises the importance of recognising the significant impact of agriculture and especially animal production on greenhouse gas (ghg) emissions and land use; stresses the need to enhance natural carbon sinks and reduce agricultural emissions of carbon dioxide , methane and nitrous oxide , in particular in the feed and livestock sectors; calls for regulatory measures and targets to ensure progressive reductions in all ghg emissions in these sectors; ### 4. emphasises the importance of recognising the significant impact of agriculture and especially animal production on greenhouse gas (ghg) emissions and land use; stresses the need to enhance natural carbon sinks and reduce agricultural emissions of carbon dioxide , methane and nitrous oxide , in particular in the feed and livestock sectors; calls for regulatory measures and legally-binding eu-level and national targets for emissions from agriculture and related land use as part of the “fit for 55” package to ensure ambitious reductions in all ghg emissions in these sectors in the eu but also addressing embedded land use emissions from imported feed and food;


### 4. emphasises the importance of recognising the significant impact of agriculture and especially animal production on greenhouse gas (ghg) emissions and land use; stresses the need to enhance natural carbon sinks and reduce agricultural emissions of carbon dioxide , methane and nitrous oxide , in particular in the feed and livestock sectors; calls for regulatory measures and targets to ensure progressive reductions in all ghg emissions in these sectors; ### 4. emphasises the importance of measuring the actual impact of agriculture and especially intensive livestock farming on greenhouse gas (ghg) emissions and land use; stresses the need to enhance natural carbon sinks and reduce agricultural emissions of carbon dioxide , methane and nitrous oxide , and recognises the key role that agriculture already plays in carbon sequestration in soils; calls for regulatory measures and targets to ensure progressive reductions in all ghg emissions; calls on the commission to present a legislative proposal that includes adequate financial resources to compensate farmers for the loss of income they suffer in pursuing the decontamination target and to ensure more ambitious action on carbon sequestration and the use of products that biodegrade in the soil;


### 4. stresses that the eu-mercosur agreement is inconsistent with the farm to fork strategy , in particular its reduction of dependence on animal feed , and the shift to a more plant-based diet and shorter supply chains; ### 4. stresses that eu free trade agreements (ftas) , in particular the eu-mercosur agreement , must be consistent with the green deal and the farm to fork strategy , especially on the reduction of eu’s dependence on and import of critical feed materials (e.g. soya grown on deforested land) , the shift to a more plant-based diet and shorter supply chains;


### 16. calls for measures to reduce the burden that highly processed foods with high salt , sugar and fat content place on public health; regrets that the introduction of nutrient profiles is greatly delayed and stresses that a robust set of nutrient profiles must be developed to restrict or prohibit the use of false nutritional claims on foods high in fats , sugars and/or salt; calls for a mandatory eu-wide front-of-pack nutrition labelling system based on independent science; ### 16. calls for regulatory measures to reduce the burden that highly processed foods with high salt , sugar and fat content place on public health; recalls that nutrient profiles , which are long overdue , remain pertinent and necessary to meet the objectives of regulation (ec) no 1924/2006 on nutrition and health claims; welcomes the announcement of a legislative proposal to establish nutrient profiles; points out that many food products , including some marketed towards children , continue to use health and nutrition claims despite them having high levels of nutrients of concern; stresses that a robust set of nutrient profiles must be developed to prohibit the use of claims on foods high in fats , sugars and/or salt; calls on binding targets for the major food producers and retailers to reformulate processed foods; highlights that 1 in 2 adults is overweight or obese in the eu , demonstrating the need for stronger action to help stem this public health crisis; recognises that front-of-pack nutritional labels have been identified by international public health bodies such as the world health organisation as a key tool to help consumers make more informed and healthier food choices; calls on the commission to ensure that the eu mandatory front-of-pack nutritional label is developed based on robust , independent scientific evidence and demonstrated consumer understanding; stresses furthermore that to facilitate comparison across products , it should include an interpretive element and be based on uniform reference amounts such as per 100g/100ml;


### 16. calls for measures to reduce the burden that highly processed foods with high salt , sugar and fat content place on public health; regrets that the introduction of nutrient profiles is greatly delayed and stresses that a robust set of nutrient profiles must be developed to restrict or prohibit the use of false nutritional claims on foods high in fats , sugars and/or salt; calls for a mandatory eu-wide front-of-pack nutrition labelling system based on independent science; ### 16. calls for measures to reduce the burden that highly processed foods with high salt , sugar and fat content place on public health; stresses that the activities implemented by national authorities must be strengthened and harmonised to restrict or prohibit the use of false nutritional claims on foods high in fats , sugars and/or salt; calls for a mandatory eu-wide front-of-pack nutrition labelling system based on independent science , dietary guidelines and portion sizes; stresses that the front-of-pack nutrition labelling system should help consumers to make healthier food choices by providing them with detailed and comprehensible information on the food they consume , eschewing simplistic solutions , without undermining the competitiveness of the european agricultural system or damaging quality supply chains; supports the promotion of healthier diets through consumer awareness campaigns and activities providing information on the importance of a varied and balanced diet that does not exclude any food , provided that it is consumed in the right amount and frequency and is accompanied by adequate physical activity;


### 16. calls for measures to reduce the burden that highly processed foods with high salt , sugar and fat content place on public health;regrets that the introduction of nutrient profiles is greatly delayed and stresses that a robust set of nutrient profiles must be developed to restrict or prohibit the use of false nutritional claims on foods high in fats , sugars and/or salt; calls for a mandatory eu-wide front-of-pack nutrition labelling system based on independent science; ### 16. calls for measures to reduce the burden that highly processed foods place on public health and to promote healthier diets through consumer awareness campaigns and activities providing information on the importance of a varied and balanced diet that does not exclude any food , provided that it is consumed in the right amount and frequency and is accompanied by a healthy lifestyle; welcomes the search for an eu-wide front-of-pack (fop) nutrition labelling system that excludes protected designation of origin (pdo) and protected geographical indication (pgi) products , as well as products with a single ingredient such as olive oil , and is based on the italian ‘battery’ labelling system that informs consumers of the energy and nutritional content of the actual portions consumed; calls for the harmonised labelling system to be supported by sound scientific evidence and thorough impact assessments , and based on the principles of article 35 of regulation (eu) no 1169/2011 , eschewing simplistic solutions that could influence consumers’ decisions , as opposed to providing them with information on actual nutritional intake and balanced diets;


### 2. insists that eu funding for agriculture must be in line with agenda 2030 and prioritise investments in agroecology , agroforestry and crop diversification; stresses the importance of preserving agricultural biodiversity , local animal and plant breeds and local varieties; ### 2. insists that eu funding for agriculture must be in line with agenda 2030 and prioritise investments in agroecology , agroforestry , crop diversification and energy consumption; stresses the importance of preserving agricultural biodiversity , local animal and plant breeds and local varieties; stresses to this regard the crucial role of research and development in nurturing innovation in agriculture , circular economy and integrated food systems , with positive spill over effects on all sectors of local economies;


### 2. insists that eu funding for agriculture must be in line with agenda 2030 and prioritise investments in agroecology , agroforestry and crop diversification; stresses the importance of preserving agricultural biodiversity , local animal and plant breeds and local varieties; ### 2. insists that eu funding for agriculture must be in line with agenda 2030 and coherent with the paris agreement on climate change and prioritise investments in agroecology , agroforestry and crop diversification; stresses the importance of preserving agricultural biodiversity , local animal and plant breeds and local varieties;


### 3. regrets that increasing vertical and horizontal concentration in the agri-food sector reinforces the industrial food and farming model; believes that the green new deal requires the creation of a new anti-trust environment; ### 3. regrets that increasing vertical and horizontal concentration in the agri-food sector reinforces the industrial food and farming model; believes that the green new deal requires the creation of a new anti-trust environment; stresses that all actors of the agri-food sector need to exercise due diligence over their supply chain , that is to set up responsible and effective practices regarding the environment , human rights and good governance (e.g. minimum age requirements and occupational safety);


### 5. stresses that eu free trade agreements (ftas) should not disrupt local agriculture , damage small producers or exacerbate dependency on food imports; calls into question international trade rules which allow dumping through the wto green box; welcomes the commission’s commitment to compliance of eu trade agreements with the paris agreement , and calls for market access in ftas to be conditional on compliance with process and production methods criteria; ### 5. stresses that eu free trade agreements (ftas) should not disrupt local agriculture , damage small producers or exacerbate dependency on food imports; recalls the principle of policy coherence for development to ensure european exports do not hinder the development of local and emerging productions; welcomes the commission’s commitment to compliance of eu trade agreements with the paris agreement , and calls for market access in ftas to be conditional on compliance with process and production methods criteria;


### 1. reiterates its full commitment to the enduring value of multilateralism; calls for a trade agenda based on fair and rules-based trade for the benefit of all , which contributes to economic growth and prosperity , thereby strengthening peace and security; emphasizes the importance of enhancing sustainable development as well as social , environmental and human rights , and ensuring that multilaterally agreed and harmonised rules are uniformly applied to all; ### 1. reiterates its full commitment to the enduring value of multilateralism; calls for a trade agenda based on fair and rules-based trade for the benefit of all , which contributes to economic growth and prosperity , thereby strengthening peace and security; emphasizes the importance of enhancing sustainable development as well as social , environmental and human rights , and ensuring that multilaterally agreed and harmonised rules are uniformly applied by all;


### 2. warns that the future of the wto is at risk if not all members commit to a successful outcome of mc12; believes that mc12 should be the official starting point of a reflection process on the sense of purpose of the wto and on the way in which it can play a role in addressing challenges of the 21st century; in this regard urges all members to step up efforts to focus on a few core tangible outcomes that show the wto can address current challenges; asks members to find , as a minimum , a multilateral agreement on sustainable fishing as well as on pandemic response and transparency in agriculture while also agreeing to start a reform process; alerts all members that without substantial outcomes at mc12 some members might look for alternative forums for rule-making that might jeopardize the future of the multilateral trading system; ### 2. warns that the future of the wto is at risk if not all members commit to a successful outcome of mc12; believes that mc12 should be the official starting point of a reflection process on the sense of purpose of the wto and on the way in which it can play a role in addressing challenges of the 21st century; in this regard urges all members to step up efforts to focus on a few core tangible outcomes that show the wto can address current challenges; asks members to find , as a minimum , a multilateral agreement on prohibiting unsustainable fisheries subsidies as well as on pandemic response and a limited package on agriculture as well as launching work towards institutional reform , including a process that would lead to a fully functioning dispute settlement by mc13 at the latest; alerts all members that without substantial outcomes at mc12 some members might look for alternative forums for rule-making that might jeopardize the future of the multilateral trading system;


### 3. stresses the crucial importance of reaching an agreement on the fisheries subsidies by making any subsidies on illegal , unreported and unregulated fishing (iuu) illegal without exceptions , in order to ensure a sustainable use of marine resources on which more than 3 billion people depend for their livelihood; considers this to be essential not only for the credibility of the wto but also as a prerequisite for showing the strong link between the multilateral trading system and the sdgs; ### 3. stresses the crucial importance of reaching an agreement on fisheries subsidies by prohibiting certain forms of fisheries subsidies which contribute to overcapacity and overfishing , and eliminating subsidies that contribute to illegal , unreported and unregulated fishing (iuu) in order to ensure a sustainable use of marine resources; points out that more than 39 million people depend directly on capture fisheries while many millions more depend on it in downstream industries; considers such an agreement to be essential not only for the credibility of the wto but also as a prerequisite for showing the strong link between the multilateral trading system and the sdgs; stresses the importance for the eu to explain its stance and internal rules to increase our credibility;


### 4. recognises the crucial role of trade policy during the covid-19 pandemic; reiterates its resolution of 10 june 2021 on ‘meeting the global covid-19 challenge: effects of waiver of the wto trips agreement on covid-19 vaccines , treatment , equipment and increasing production and manufacturing capacity in developing countries’; in this regard , stresses the need to outline a basic agreement on issues such as tariffs on pharmaceutical and medical goods , disciplines on export restrictions , transparency and global cooperation in times of crisis in a ministerial declaration in line with the trade & health initiative; believes that such an agreement is of utmost importance to show the relevance of the wto; calls for the establishment of a new committee on trade and health at mc12 in order to prepare guidelines on how governments can implement existing exceptions and flexibilities in international trade law and to lay the groundwork for a trade pillar for the negotiations on a future international treaty on pandemic response; calls on all wto members to revise the trips agreement in order to enhance affordable access to health products; calls on the eu to actively participate in text-based negotiations to achieve this; ### 4. recognises the crucial role of trade policy during the covid-19 pandemic; reiterates its resolution of 10 june 2021 on ‘meeting the global covid-19 challenge: effects of waiver of the wto trips agreement on covid-19 vaccines , treatment , equipment and increasing production and manufacturing capacity in developing countries’; in this regard , stresses the need to outline a basic agreement on issues such as tariffs on pharmaceutical and medical goods , disciplines on export restrictions , transparency and global cooperation in times of crisis in a ministerial declaration in line with the trade & health initiative; believes that such an agreement is of utmost importance to show the relevance of the wto; calls for the establishment of a new committee on trade and health at mc12 in order to prepare guidelines on how governments can implement existing exceptions and flexibilities in international trade law and to lay the groundwork for a trade pillar for the negotiations on a future international treaty on pandemic response; notes that many , especially developing , countries face significant political pressure and legal difficulties in the use of trips flexibilities , notably art. 31bis; calls on wto members to address this and recalls that the eu should actively participate in text based negotiations on a temporary trips waiver to this end;


### 5. calls on all wto members to respect their commitments on transparency on agricultural subsidies; stresses the importance of adopting a work plan to tackle domestic support including a permanent solution on public stock holding with a mandatory system of notifications to ensure stockholding programmes are proportionate to the objective of food security and do not distort trade; stresses that the agreement on agriculture must be adapted to meet the challenges of the present day; ### 5. calls on all wto members to respect their commitments on transparency in all agricultural pillars as well as agree on systematic improvements as suggested in the eu's co-sponsored proposal for a ministerial decision on transparency improvements in agriculture in job/ag/213; stresses the importance of adopting a work plan to tackle trade distorting domestic support including a permanent solution on public stock holding with a mandatory system of notifications to ensure stockholding programmes are proportionate to the objective of food security and do not distort trade; stresses that the agreement on agriculture must be adapted to meet the challenges of the present day;


### 6. considers that it is now a matter of urgency to proceed to a substantive reform of the wto , in the light of the latest developments but also owing to the long-standing lack of progress on the doha development agenda (dda); calls on wto members to fundamentally review several aspects of the wto , specifically its monitoring , negotiating and dispute settlement functions , with a view to increasing its effectiveness , inclusiveness transparency and legitimacy; urges all wto members to focus on a constructive process of change to modernize and equip the wto with tools that address effectively the trade challenges of the twenty-first century , and to establish an institutional mechanism and a clear timeline to carry the reform agenda forward at mc12; ### 6. considers that it is now a matter of urgency to proceed to a substantive reform of the wto , in the light of the deep crisis facing the organisation but also owing to the long-standing lack of progress on the doha development agenda (dda); calls on wto members to fundamentally review several aspects of the wto , specifically its monitoring , negotiating and dispute settlement functions , with a view to increasing its effectiveness , inclusiveness transparency and legitimacy; urges all wto members to focus on a constructive process of change to modernize and equip the wto with tools that address effectively the trade challenges of the twenty-first century , and to establish an institutional mechanism and a clear timeline to carry the reform agenda forward at mc12 with the objective of achieving concrete outcomes by mc13 at the latest;


### 7. strongly urges all wto members to fully engage and work on solutions to restore a fully functioning dispute settlement system as swiftly as possible; warns that without a functioning appellate body the wto is toothless and the tendency to breach multilateral agreements will only increase; strongly supports recent eu initiatives to conclude interim arrangements for provisional solutions with our major trade partners; recalls that a two level process should remain the core objective of the eu’s strategy; emphasises that successful reform will require engaging with the valid concerns of all parties involved and agreeing on a compromise solution; ### 7. deeply regrets the stalemate at the wto appellate body , which is depriving the global trading system of an enforceable dispute settlement system; warns that without a functioning appellate body the wto is toothless and the tendency to breach multilateral agreements will only increase; notes that currently more than 15 cases are notified for appeal without the possibility to be reviewed; strongly urges all wto members to fully engage and work on solutions to restore a fully functioning dispute settlement system as swiftly as possible; warns that without a functioning appellate body the wto is toothless and the tendency to breach multilateral agreements will only increase; strongly supports recent eu initiatives to conclude arrangements with our major trade partners that preserve , on an interim basis , a functioning dispute settlement process among those wto members who participate; recalls that a binding , two-tier and independent process should remain the core objective of the eu’s strategy; emphasises that successful reform will require engaging with the valid concerns of all parties involved and agreeing on a compromise solution; supports the commission’s recent proposal for reform of the enforcement regulation in order to ensure that the eu has the right tools to enforce commitments from third countries;


### b. whereas the eu and the us share a fundamental interest in shaping the international environment; ### b. whereas the eu and the us share a fundamental interest in shaping a rules-based international environment that strengthens multilateralism and democratic values , defends human rights , upholds international law , and promotes peaceful conflict resolution and sustainable development around the world;


### b. whereas the eu and the us share a fundamental interest in shaping the international environment; ### b. whereas the eu and the us share a fundamental interest in shaping the international order;


### f. whereas constructive dialogue is needed to address the transatlantic divergences; ### f. whereas constructive dialogue is needed to address the transatlantic divergences , including in such areas as relations with china , trade , defence commitments and capabilities , conflicts in the middle east , and to identify common approaches where possible;


### g. whereas , while pursuing transatlantic cooperation in areas of shared interest , the eu should also foster its strategic autonomy in defence and economic relations; ### g. whereas , while pursuing and deepening transatlantic cooperation in areas of shared interest , the eu should also foster its strategic autonomy;


### 7. emphasises that the announced return of the us to multilateralism provides an opportunity to re-engage with the us in repairing and rebuilding the transatlantic relationship and strengthening together the global rules-based order in the spirit of our shared democratic values; ### 7. emphasises that the announced return of the us to multilateralism and commitment to restore alliances provide an opportunity to re-engage with the us in repairing and rebuilding the transatlantic relationship and strengthening together the global rules-based order in the spirit of our shared democratic values;


### 7. emphasises that the announced return of the us to multilateralism provides an opportunity to re-engage with the us in repairing and rebuilding the transatlantic relationship and strengthening together the global rules-based order in the spirit of our shared democratic values; ### 7. emphasises that the announced return of the us to multilateralism provides an opportunity to re-engage with the us in repairing and rebuilding the transatlantic relationship and strengthening together , as equal partners , the global rules-based order in the spirit of our shared democratic values;


### 17. supports a rebalancing of the responsibilities in the transatlantic security relationship by fostering greater self-reliance for eu member states in matters of defence as a way to lessen the burden on the us; ### 17. emphasizes the importance for the eu member states to strive for a more balanced burden-sharing. supports a rebalancing of the responsibilities in the transatlantic security relationship by fostering greater contribution and self-reliance for eu member states in matters of defence as a way to lessen the burden on the us;


### 18. considers it necessary to foster cooperation not only on traditional security threats , but also on new ones such as hostile foreign technological dominance , hybrid threats , disinformation and cybersecurity; ### 18. considers it necessary to foster cooperation not only on traditional security threats , but also on new ones such as hostile foreign technological dominance , hybrid threats , disinformation and cyber threats;


### 19. supports the creation of the eu-us security and defence dialogue and calls on the vp/hr to launch it as soon as possible; ### 19. supports the ongoing cooperation within the framework of eu-nato cooperation and the creation of the complementary proposal of the eu-us security and defence dialogue and calls on the vp/hr to launch it as soon as possible;


### 20. stresses the common need to defend global democracy against rising authoritarianism , also within the transatlantic community , by , inter alia , fostering inclusive social and economic policies that address the root causes of inequalities and fighting extreme nationalist views that provide a fertile ground for far-right movements to thrive; ### 20. stresses the common need to defend global democracy against rising authoritarianism , also within the transatlantic community , by , inter alia , fostering inclusive social and economic policies that address the root causes of inequalities and fighting extreme political views that provide a fertile ground for far-right and far-left movements to thrive;


### 23. calls for a comprehensive eu-us dialogue on china that should address the areas of divergence , such as the comprehensive agreement on investments , and explore possibilities for eu-us cooperation with china in multilateral frameworks on common challenges , such as climate change; ### 23. calls for a comprehensive eu-us dialogue on china that should address the areas of divergence , such as the comprehensive agreement on investments , and explore possibilities for eu-us cooperation with china in multilateral frameworks on common challenges , such as climate change; understands that this forenamed eu-us cooperation on china should be addressed bilaterally and upon their condition as equal partners;


### 25. calls for close cooperation to jointly address the range of threats emanating from the russian federation , such as the continued destabilisation of ukraine and georgia , interferences in democratic processes in the eu and the us , hybrid threats and disinformation campaigns , while at the same pursuing selective cooperation in the areas of shared transatlantic interest , notably in the area of arms control; ### 25. calls for close cooperation to jointly address the range of threats emanating from the russian federation , such as the continued destabilisation of ukraine and georgia , interferences in democratic processes in the eu and the us , hybrid threats and disinformation campaigns , while at the same pursuing selective cooperation in the areas of shared transatlantic interest , notably in the area of arms control architecture , including the intermediate-range nuclear forces (inf) treaty , as well as climate diplomacy and the revival of the jcpoa and stabilization of afghanistan;


### 26. supports closer cooperation with the us and latin american countries in promoting multilateralism , democratic values , sustainable development , human rights and international law standards; ### 26. supports closer cooperation with the us and latin american countries in promoting multilateralism , democratic values , sustainable development , human rights and international law standards; understands the need for the eu and the us to engage more actively with latin america and the caribbean region as vital allies in international fora and as strategic partners in the defence of multilateralism; calls for an eu-us-latin america “atlantic triangle alliance” that allows both regions to jointly further progress in areas such as democracy , security and drug trafficking , fight against inequalities and development cooperation;


### (3) for the purposes of enhancing judicial cooperation and access to justice , legal acts of the union providing for communication between competent authorities , including union agencies and bodies , and between competent authorities and natural and legal persons , should be complemented by conditions for conducting such communication through digital means. ### (3) for the purposes of enhancing judicial cooperation and access to justice , legal acts of the union providing for communication between competent authorities , including union agencies and bodies , and between competent authorities and natural and legal persons , should be complemented by conditions for conducting such communication through digital means in a manner that ensures the protection of fundamental rights as provided for in the charter , especially those enshrined in title vi and article 47 on the right to an effective remedy and to a fair trial. these should in no way undermine procedural rights that are essential for the protection of those fundamental rights , including those stemming from directives 2010/64/eu , 2012/13/eu , 2013/48/eu and (eu) 2016/343 of the european parliament and of the council.


### (5) it is important that appropriate channels are developed to ensure that justice systems can efficiently cooperate digitally. therefore , it is essential to establish , at union level , an information technology instrument that allows swift , direct , interoperable , reliable and secure cross-border electronic exchange of case related data among competent authorities. ### (5) it is important that appropriate channels are developed to ensure that justice systems can efficiently cooperate digitally. therefore , it is essential to establish , at union level , an information technology instrument that allows swift , direct , interoperable , reliable and secure cross-border electronic exchange of case related data among competent authorities , while respecting the fundamental rights guaranteed by the charter , especially the protection of privacy and personal data.


### (12) for the purposes of this regulation , member states should be able to use instead of a national it system , a commission-developed software (reference implementation software). the commission should be responsible for the creation , maintenance and development of this reference implementation software in accordance with the principles of data protection by design and by default. the commission should design , develop and maintain the reference implementation software in compliance with the data protection requirements and principles laid down in regulation (eu) 2018/1725 of the european parliament and of the council34 and regulation (eu) 2016/679 of the european parliament and of the council35 , in particular the principles of data protection by design and by default as well as high level of cybersecurity. the reference implementation software should also include appropriate technical measures and enable the organisational measures necessary for ensuring a level of security and interoperability which is appropriate for the exchange of information in the context of cross-border judicial procedures. ### (12) for the purposes of this regulation , member states should be able to use instead of a national it system , a commission-developed software (reference implementation software). the commission should be responsible for the creation , maintenance and development of this reference implementation software in accordance with the principles of data protection by design and by default. the commission should design , develop and maintain the reference implementation software in compliance with the data protection requirements and principles laid down in regulation (eu) 2018/1725 of the european parliament and of the council34 and regulation (eu) 2016/679 of the european parliament and of the council35 , in particular the principles of data protection by design and by default as well as high level of cybersecurity. in particular , any natural or legal persons that take part in creating , maintaining or developing the national it systems or the reference implementation software should be bound by these requirements and principles. the reference implementation software should also include appropriate technical measures and enable the organisational measures necessary for ensuring a level of security and interoperability which is appropriate for the exchange of information in the context of cross-border judicial procedures.


### (13) in order to provide swift , secure and efficient assistance to applicants , written communication between competent authorities , such as courts and central authorities established under council regulation (ec) 4/200936 and council regulation (eu) 2019/111137 , should , as a rule , be carried out through the decentralised it system. in exceptional cases , other means of communication may be used if those are found to be more appropriate for the purposes of ensuring flexibility. however , the decentralised it system should always be considered the most appropriate means for exchanging forms between competent authorities established by the legal acts listed in annex i and annex ii to this regulation. ### (13) in order to provide swift , secure and efficient assistance to applicants , written communication between competent authorities , such as courts and central authorities established under council regulation (ec) 4/200936 and council regulation (eu) 2019/111137 , should , as a rule , be carried out through the decentralised it system.


### (14) transmission through the decentralised it system could be impossible due to a disruption of the system or where the nature of what has to be transmitted makes transmission by digital means impracticable , such as the transmission of physical/material evidence. where the decentralised it system is not used , communication should be carried out by the most appropriate alternative means. such alternative means should entail , inter alia , transmission being performed as swiftly as possible and in a secure manner by other secure electronic means or by postal service. ### (14) in exceptional cases , other means of communication than the decentralised it system may be used. transmission through the decentralised it system could be impossible due to a disruption of the system or where the nature of what has to be transmitted makes transmission by the decentralised it system impracticable , such as the transmission of physical/material evidence. where the decentralised it system is not used , communication should be carried out by the most appropriate alternative means. such alternative means should entail , inter alia , transmission being performed as swiftly as possible and in a secure manner by other secure electronic means or by postal service. in any case , documents submitted by means other than the decentralised it system should not be considered inadmissible solely on that basis. however , the decentralised it system should always be considered the most appropriate means for exchanging forms between competent authorities established by the legal acts listed in annex i and annex ii to this regulation.


### (15) for the purposes of ensuring the flexibility of judicial cooperation in certain cross-border judicial procedures , other means of communication could be more appropriate. in particular , this may be appropriate for direct communication between courts under regulation (eu) 2019/1111 and regulation (eu) 2015/848 of the european parliament and the council38 , as well as direct communication between competent authorities under the union legal acts in criminal matters. in such cases , less formal communication means , such as e-mail , could be used. ### deleted


### (17) for the purpose of facilitating access of natural and legal persons to the competent authorities , this regulation should establish an access point at union level (european electronic access point) , as part of the decentralised it system through which natural and legal persons should be able to file claims , launch requests , send and receive procedurally relevant information and communicate with the competent authorities , for cases covered by this regulation. the european electronic access point should be hosted on the european e-justice portal , which serves as a one-stop-shop for judicial information and services in the union. ### (17) for the purpose of facilitating access of natural and legal persons and their legal or authorised representatives to the competent authorities , this regulation should establish an access point at union level(european electronic access point) , as part of the decentralised it system through which natural and legal persons and their legal or authorised representatives should be able to file claims , launch requests , send and receive procedurally relevant information and communicate with the competent authorities , for cases covered by this regulation. the european electronic access point should be hosted on the european e-justice portal , which serves as a one-stop-shop for judicial information and services in the union


### (18) member states should be responsible for the establishment , maintenance and development of national electronic portals (national it portals) for the purposes of electronic communication between natural and legal persons and the respective authorities which are competent in the proceedings under the legal acts listed in annex i. ### (18) member states should be responsible for the establishment , maintenance and development of national electronic portals (national it portals) for the purposes of electronic communication between natural and legal persons and their legal or authorised representatives and the respective authorities which are competent in the proceedings under the legal acts listed in annex i.


### (19) in the context of the communication in cross-border cases of natural and legal persons with competent authorities , electronic communication should be used as an alternative to the existing means of communication. notwithstanding , to ensure that access to justice through digital means does not contribute to further widening of the digital divide , the choice of the means of communication between electronic communication , as provided by this regulation , and other means of communication should be left to the discretion of the individuals concerned. this is particularly important in order to cater for the specific circumstances of disadvantaged groups and people in situation of vulnerability , such as children or older people , who may lack the requisite technical means or digital skills to access digital services. ### (19) in the context of the communication in cross-border cases of natural and legal persons and their legal or authorised representatives with competent authorities , electronic communication should be used as an alternative to the existing means of communication. notwithstanding , to ensure that access to justice through digital means does not contribute to further widening of the digital divide , the choice of the means of communication between electronic communication , as provided by this regulation , and other means of communication should be left to the discretion of the natural persons concerned. this is particularly important in order to cater for the specific circumstances of disadvantaged groups and people in situation of vulnerability , such as children or older people , who may lack the requisite technical means or digital skills to access digital services. however , for legal persons communication with competent authorities should take place , by default , via electronic means.


### (21) in order to facilitate oral hearings in proceedings in civil , commercial and criminal matters with cross-border implications , this regulation should provide for the optional use of videoconferencing or other distance communication technology for the participation of the parties in such hearings. the procedure for applying and conducting of hearings through videoconferencing or other distance communication technology should be governed by the law of the member state conducting the videoconference. conducting a hearing by videoconferencing or other distance communication technology should not be refused solely based on the non-existence of national rules governing the use of distance communication technology. in such cases the most appropriate rules available under the national law , such as rules for taking of evidence , should apply mutatis mutandis. ### (21) in order to facilitate oral hearings in proceedings in civil , commercial and criminal matters with cross-border implications , this regulation should provide for the optional use of videoconferencing or other distance communication technology for the participation of the parties , as well as other relevant participants in proceedings , such as translators and the parties’ legal or authorised representatives , in such hearings. the procedure for applying and conducting of hearings through videoconferencing or other distance communication technology should be governed by the law of the member state conducting the videoconference. the specific videoconferencing or other distance communication technology used should meet applicable privacy , data protection and information security standards irrespective of the type of hearing for which they are used. conducting a hearing by videoconferencing or other distance communication technology should not be refused solely based on the non-existence of national rules governing the use of distance communication technology. in such cases the most appropriate rules available under the national law , such as rules for taking of evidence , should apply mutatis mutandis. in all cases where videoconferencing or other distance communication technology is used , the software used should be made freely available to all parties and other relevant participants to the proceedings. moreover , in such cases , all parties and other relevant participants to the proceedings should have the necessary infrastructure to use videoconferencing or other distance communication technology , such as a stable internet connection and a suitable device. any necessary adjustments should also be made to respect the principle of non-discrimination and all other fundamental rights guaranteed by the charter.


### (27) the reference implementation software developed by the commission as a back-end system should programmatically collect the data necessary for monitoring purposes and such data should be transmitted to the commission. where member states choose to use a national it system instead of the reference implementation software developed by the commission , such a system may be equipped to programmatically collect those data and , in that case , those data should be transmitted to the commission. ### (27) the reference implementation software developed by the commission as a back-end system should programmatically collect the data necessary for monitoring purposes and such data should be transmitted to the commission. where member states choose to use a national it system instead of the reference implementation software developed by the commission , such a system should be equipped to programmatically collect those data and , in that case , those data should be transmitted to the commission.


### (29) the application of this regulation should be without prejudice to procedural rights as enshrined in the charter of fundamental rights of the european union46 and union law , such as the procedural rights directives47 , and in particular to the right to an interpreter , the right of access to a lawyer , the right of access to the case file , the right to legal aid , and the right to be present at the trial. ### (29) the application of this regulation should be without prejudice to the separation of powers and the independence of the judiciary across the member states , as well as to procedural rights as enshrined in the charter of fundamental rights of the european union46 and union law , such as the procedural rights directives47 , and in particular to the right to an interpreter , the right of access to a lawyer , the right of access to the case file , the right to legal aid , and the right to be present at the trial.


### 2. where electronic communication in accordance with paragraph 1 is not possible due to the disruption of the decentralised it system , the nature of the transmitted material or exceptional circumstances , the transmission shall be carried out by the swiftest , most appropriate alternative means , taking into account the need to ensure a secure and reliable exchange of information. ### 2. where electronic communication in accordance with paragraph 1 is not possible due to exceptional circumstances , such as the disruption of the decentralised it system and the nature of the transmitted material , the transmission shall be carried out by the swiftest , most appropriate alternative means , taking into account the need to ensure a secure and reliable exchange of information


### 3. where the use of the decentralised it system is not appropriate in view of the specific circumstances of the communication in question , any other means of communication may be used. ### deleted


### 4. paragraph 3 of this article shall not apply to the exchange of forms provided by the instruments listed in annex i and annex ii. ### deleted


### 1. a european electronic access point shall be established on the european e-justice portal , to be used for electronic communication between natural or legal persons and competent authorities in cases falling under the scope of the legal acts listed in annex i. ### 1. a european electronic access point shall be established on the european e-justice portal , to be used for electronic communication between natural or legal persons , or their legal or authorised representative , and competent authorities in cases falling under the scope of the legal acts listed in annex i.


### 2. the commission shall be responsible for the technical management , development , maintenance , security and support of the european electronic access point. ### 2. the commission shall be responsible for the creation , technical management , development , maintenance , security and support of the european electronic access point. the european electronic access point shall be made as accessible as technically possible to all natural or legal persons and their legal or authorised representatives.


### 3. the european electronic access point shall allow natural and legal persons to file claims , launch requests , send and receive procedurally relevant information and communicate with the competent authorities. ### 3. the european electronic access point shall allow natural and legal persons and their legal or authorised representative to file claims , launch requests , send and receive procedurally relevant information , review relevant documents related to a proceeding and communicate with the competent authorities.


### means of communication between natural or legal persons and competent authorities ### means of communication between natural persons and competent authorities


### 1. written communication between natural or legal persons and competent authorities falling within the scope of the legal acts listed in annex i , may be carried out by the following electronic means: ### 1. written communication between natural persons , or their legal or authorised representative , and competent authorities falling within the scope of the legal acts listed in annex i , may be carried out by the following electronic means:


### 2. competent authorities shall communicate with natural and legal persons through the european electronic access point , where that natural or legal person gave prior express consent to the use of this means of communication. ### 2. competent authorities shall communicate with natural persons through the european electronic access point or through national it portals , where available , where that natural person gave prior express consent to the use of this means of communication.


### competent authorities shall accept electronic communication under article 5(1) , transmitted through the european electronic access point or national it portals , where available. ### competent authorities shall accept electronic communication under article 5(1) and article 5a(1) , transmitted through the european electronic access point or national it portals , where available.


### 1. without prejudice to specific provisions regulating the use of videoconferencing or other distance communication technology in proceedings under the legal acts listed in annex i , and upon request of a party to proceedings falling under the scope of these legal acts or in other civil and commercial matters where one of the parties is present in another member state , or upon request of their legal or authorised representative , competent authorities shall allow their participation to a hearing by videoconferencing or other distance communication technology , provided that: ### 1. without prejudice to specific provisions regulating the use of videoconferencing or other distance communication technology in proceedings under the legal acts listed in annex i , and upon request of a party to proceedings falling under the scope of these legal acts or in other civil and commercial matters where one of the parties is present in another member state , or upon request of their legal or authorised representative , competent authorities shall allow their participation as well as of all other relevant participants to the proceedings to a hearing by videoconferencing or other distance communication technology , provided that:


### such technology is available , and ### such technology is available and the relevant software is made freely available to all parties and other relevant participants to the proceedings , and


### 2. a request for conducting an oral hearing through videoconferencing or other distance communication technology may be refused by the competent authority where the particular circumstances of the case are not compatible with the use of such technology. ### 2. a request for conducting an oral hearing through videoconferencing or other distance communication technology may be refused by the competent authority where the particular circumstances of the case are not compatible with the use of such technology and the decision is duly justified.


### 3. competent authorities may on their own motion allow the participation of parties to hearings by videoconference , provided that all parties to the proceedings are given the possibility to submit an opinion on the use of videoconferencing or other distance communication technology. ### 3. competent authorities may on their own motion determine the participation of parties and other relevant parties to hearings by videoconference , provided that all the conditions under articles 1(a) , 1(b) , 1(ba) and 1(bb) are met.


### 4. subject to this regulation , the procedure for requesting and conducting a videoconference shall be regulated by the national law of the member state conducting videoconference. ### 4. subject to this regulation , the procedure for requesting and conducting a videoconference shall be regulated by the national law of the member state in which the proceeding has been lodged or where the proceedings are taking place.


### 1. where the competent authority of a member state requests the hearing of a suspect , accused or convicted person in proceedings under the legal acts listed in annex ii , the competent authority shall allow their participation to the hearing by videoconferencing or other distance communication technology , provided that: ### 1. where the competent authority of a member state requests the hearing of a suspect , accused or convicted person in proceedings under the legal acts listed in annex ii , the competent authority shall allow their participation to the hearing , as well as of all other relevant participants to the proceedings , by videoconferencing or other distance communication technology , provided that:


### such technology is available; ### such technology is available and the relevant software is made freely available to all parties and other relevant participants to the proceedings;


### the particular circumstances of the case justify the use of such technology; ### the particular circumstances of the case justify the use of such technology and competent authorities take any necessary measures to ensure non-discrimination and respect for fundamental rights of all parties in line with article 2a as well as applicable procedural rights;


### the suspect , accused or convicted persons expressed consent on the use of videoconferencing or other distance communication technology. before expressing consent on the use of videoconferencing or other distance communication technology the suspect or the accused person shall have the possibility to seek the advice of a lawyer in accordance with directive 2013/48/eu. ### the suspect , accused or convicted persons expressed consent on the use of videoconferencing or other distance communication technology. member states shall ensure that the consent to the use of videoconferencing by a suspect , accused or convicted person is given voluntarily and unequivocally. the competent authority conducting the hearing by videoconferencing or other distance communication technology shall verify the suspect’s , accused or convicted person’s consent before proceeding with the hearing. verification of the consent shall be recorded in the records of the hearing in accordance with the national law of the member state. before the suspect , accused or convicted person is asked to express their consent , the competent authorities shall provide them with information about the procedure for conducting a hearing through videoconferencing or other distance communication technology , including their right to interpretation in accordance with directive 2010/64/eu and their right of access to legal assistance in accordance with directive 2013/48/eu.


### 3. subject to this regulation , the procedure for conducting a videoconference shall be regulated by the national law of the member state conducting the videoconference. ### 3. subject to this regulation , the procedure for conducting a videoconference shall be regulated by the national law of the member state where the proceedings are taking place.


### 4. the confidentiality of communication between suspects , accused or convicted persons and their lawyer before and during the hearing through videoconferencing or other distance communication technology shall be ensured. ### 4. the confidentiality of communication , such as through the use of videoconferencing or other distance communication technology , as well as sharing of documents between suspects , accused or convicted persons and their lawyer before , during and after the hearing shall be ensured by member states and , where appropriate , facilitated , by the relevant competent authority.


### electronic signatures and electronic seals ### trust services


### 1. every five years after the date of application of article 25 , the commission shall carry out an evaluation of this regulation and present to the european parliament and to the council a report supported by information supplied by the member states and collected by the commission. ### 1. every three years after the date of application of article 25 , the commission shall carry out an evaluation of this regulation and present to the european parliament and to the council a report supported by information supplied by the member states and collected by the commission. it shall also include an assessment of the effect of electronic communication on the equality of arms in the context of cross-border civil and criminal proceedings;


### 5. the application shall be submitted in paper form , by electronic means of communication provided for in article 5 of regulation (eu) …/…[this regulation]52 , or by any other means of communication , including electronic , accepted by the member state of origin and available to the court of origin .. ### 5. the application shall be submitted in paper form , by electronic means of communication provided for in article 5 and article 5a of regulation (eu) …/…[this regulation]52 , or , where the use of such means is not possible in duly identified exceptional cases , by any other means of communication , including electronic , accepted by the member state of origin and available to the court of origin ..


### 4. the statement of opposition shall be submitted in paper form or by electronic means of communication provided for in article 5 of regulation (eu) …/…[this regulation]54 , or by any other means of communication , including electronic , accepted by the member state of origin and available to the court of origin.. ### 4. the statement of opposition shall be submitted in paper form or by electronic means of communication provided for in article 5 and article 5a of regulation (eu) …/…[this regulation]54 , or , where the use of such means is not possible in duly identified exceptional cases , by any other means of communication , including electronic , accepted by the member state of origin and available to the court of origin..


### 1. the claimant shall commence the european small claims procedure by filling in standard claim form a , as set out in annex i to this regulation , and lodging it with the court or tribunal with jurisdiction directly , by post , by electronic means of communication provided for in article 5 of regulation (eu) …/…[this regulation]56 or by any other means of communication , such as fax or e-mail , acceptable to the member state in which the procedure is commenced. the claim form shall include a description of evidence supporting the claim and be accompanied , where appropriate , by any relevant supporting documents.. ### 1. the claimant shall commence the european small claims procedure by filling in standard claim form a , as set out in annex i to this regulation , and lodging it with the court or tribunal with jurisdiction directly , by post , by electronic means of communication provided for in article 5 and article 5a of regulation (eu) …/…[this regulation]56 or , where the use of such means is not possible in duly identified exceptional cases , by any other means of communication , such as fax or e-mail , acceptable to the member state in which the procedure is commenced. the claim form shall include a description of evidence supporting the claim and be accompanied , where appropriate , by any relevant supporting documents..


### 4. the application and supporting documents may be submitted by any means of communication , including electronic , which are accepted under the procedural rules of the member state in which the application is lodged or by the electronic means of communication provided for in article 5 of regulation (eu) …/…[this regulation]58 . ### 4. the application and supporting documents may be submitted by any means of communication , including electronic , which are accepted under the procedural rules of the member state in which the application is lodged or by the electronic means of communication provided for in article 5 and article 5a of regulation (eu) …/…[this regulation]58 .


### 5. the decision on the application shall be brought to the notice of the creditor in accordance with the procedure provided for by the law of the member state of origin for equivalent national orders or by the electronic means of communication provided for in article 5 of regulation (eu) …/…[this regulation]59 .. ### 5. the decision on the application shall be brought to the notice of the creditor in accordance with the procedure provided for by the law of the member state of origin for equivalent national orders or by the electronic means of communication provided for in article 5 and article 5a of regulation (eu) …/…[this regulation]59 ..


### by the electronic means of communication provided for in article 5 of regulation (eu) …/…[this regulation]62 . ### by the electronic means of communication provided for in article 5 and article 5a of regulation (eu) …/…[this regulation]62 .


### any foreign creditor may lodge claims in insolvency proceedings by any means of communication , which are accepted by the law of the state of the opening of proceedings or by the electronic means of communication provided for in article 5 of regulation (eu) …/…[this regulation]64 . ### any foreign creditor may lodge claims in insolvency proceedings by any means of communication , which are accepted by the law of the state of the opening of proceedings or by the electronic means of communication provided for in article 5 and article 5a of regulation (eu) …/…[this regulation]64 .


### (3) for the purposes of enhancing judicial cooperation in civil commercial and criminal matters with cross-border implications , legal acts of the union providing for communication between competent authorities , including union agencies and bodies , should be complemented by conditions for conducting such communication through digital means. ### (3) for the purposes of enhancing judicial cooperation in civil commercial and criminal matters with cross-border implications , legal acts of the union providing for communication between competent authorities , including union agencies and bodies , should be complemented by conditions for conducting such communication through digital means in a manner that ensures the protection of fundamental rights as provided for in the charter of fundamental rights of the european union , especially those enshrined in title vi and article 47 on the right to an effective remedy and to a fair trial. these conditions should in no way undermine the protection of procedural rights that are essential for the protection of those fundamental rights , including those stemming from directives 2010/64/eu , 2012/13/eu ,2013/48/eu and (eu) 2016/343 of the european parliament and of the council.


### — having regard to the charter of fundamental rights of the european union , ### — having regard to the charter of fundamental rights of the european union , and especially articles 11 , 20 , 47 and 48 thereof ,


### a. whereas independent journalism and access to pluralistic information are key pillars of democracy; whereas civil society is essential for any democracy to thrive; ### a. whereas independent journalism and access to pluralistic information are key pillars of democracy; whereas civil society is essential for any democracy to thrive; whereas ngos play a vital part in ensuring the voice of minorities and the marginalised is heard;


### a. whereas independent journalism and access to pluralistic information are key pillars of democracy; whereas civil society is essential for any democracy to thrive; ### a. whereas independent journalism and access to pluralistic information are key pillars of democracy; whereas civil society is essential for any democracy to thrive and the shrinking of the space available for civil society work can negatively impact democracies;


### a. whereas independent journalism and access to pluralistic information are key pillars of democracy; whereas civil society is essential for any democracy to thrive; ### a. whereas independent journalism and access to pluralistic information are key pillars of democracy; whereas civil society is essential for any democracy to thrive and for the rule of law to be upheld;


### b. whereas strategic lawsuits against public participation (slapps) are lawsuits or other legal actions (e.g. injunctions , asset-freezing) based on civil and criminal law , as well as the threats of such actions , with the purpose of preventing reporting on breaches of union and national law , corruption or other fraudulent practices or of blocking public participation; ### b. whereas strategic lawsuits against public participation (slapps) are lawsuits or other legal actions (e.g. injunctions , asset-freezing) based on civil and criminal law , as well as the threats of such actions , with the purpose of preventing public participation including investigating and reporting on breaches of union and national law , corruption or other fraudulent practices or of blocking public participation and activism including by violating civil liberties such as freedom of association , assembly and freedom of expression and of information thus resulting in lessening societal resilience against authoritarian pushback against democracy and rule of law;


### legislative measures - a package addressing slapps should include proposals: ### legislative measures - a package addressing slapps , including early dismissal mechanisms , should include proposals:


### 1. underlines that an independent , impartial , professional and responsible media is a key pillar of democracy; expresses serious concerns about the situation in some member states whereby media laws allow for greater political interference; ### 1. recalls that the union is founded on the common values enshrined in article 2 of the treaty on european union of respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law and respect for human rights; stresses that these values include pluralism , non-discrimination , tolerance , justice , solidarity and equality; reiterates the fundamental rights of media freedom and pluralism as stated in article 11 of the charter of fundamental rights of the european union , which specifically stresses the need for these to be respected; underlines that an independent , impartial , professional and responsible media is a key pillar of democracy; expresses serious concerns about the situation in some member states whereby media laws allow for greater political interference;


### 2. is concerned that the current covid-19 pandemic not only continues to have a significant negative impact on public health , social welfare and the economy , but also entails a serious threat to media freedom; warns that governments across the world could use the coronavirus emergency as an excuse to implement draconian new restrictions on freedom of expression and tighten media censorship; calls on the commission to mobilise funds to encourage anti-corruption investigative journalism; ### 2. is alarmed that the current covid-19 pandemic not only continues to have a significant negative impact on public health , social welfare and the economy , but also impacts the whole media sector , notably through the revenue drop which causes some of the media organisations to close down and deeply affect the working conditions of journalists and other workers in media organisations; furthermore , is concerned at the fact that the pandemic circumstances and consequences entail serious threat to media freedom for citizens and civil society organisations , including but not limited to restrictions on access to justice and information; stresses that it was shown during the crisis that media and journalist reporting was crucial in transferring accurate information to the citizens; warns that many governments across the world are trying to use the coronavirus emergency as an excuse to implement draconian new restrictions on freedom of expression and tighten media censorship; calls on the commission to mobilise funds to encourage anti-corruption investigative journalism;


### 4. calls on the commission to propose a directive against strategic lawsuits against public participation (slapps) in order to protect independent media and journalists from vexatious lawsuits intended to silence or intimidate them; ### 4. stresses the need to closely follow and appropriately act when governments or powerful individuals use legal measures to silence critics and opponents , such as for example strategic lawsuits against public participation (slapps) or laws curtailing the right to freedom of expression in a manner which is incompatible with individuals' fundamental rights; calls on the commission to follow-up on its european democracy action plan and propose a directive against strategic lawsuits against public participation (slapps) in order to protect independent media and journalists from vexatious lawsuits or malicious threats to initiate lawsuits intended to silence or intimidate them;


### 6. calls on the member states to guarantee that the public service media is free from censorship and political influence; invites the member states , in this regard , to establish the necessary regulatory frameworks to monitor media ownership and ensure full transparency; ### 6. calls on the member states to guarantee that the public service media is free from censorship and political influence; invites the member states , in this regard , to establish the necessary regulatory frameworks to monitor media ownership and ensure full transparency; in addition stresses the importance of independent in-house media regulatory mechanisms for all situations and processes within the media house as to ensure that all workers and employees are protected at all stages; stresses the problem of media organisations filling lawsuits against their own journalists and media workers and emphasises the importance of independence monitory and regulatory mechanisms in those situations;


### 7. encourages the member states to introduce effective measures to ensure better protection for the personal safety of journalists , in particular investigative journalists. ### 7. urges the member states and the commission to introduce effective measures to ensure better protection for the personal safety of journalists , in particular investigative journalists and looks forward to the announced commission recommendation on ensuring safety of journalists in the european union; calls for such recommendation to include measures on the safety of all journalists employed by european media organisations in the eu and third countries , with particular attention to those reporting from conflict or high-risk countries;


### (1) ensuring an effective access of citizens and businesses to justice and facilitating judicial cooperation between the member states are among the main objectives of the eu’s area of freedom , security and justice enshrined in title v of the treaty. ### (1) ensuring an effective access of citizens and businesses to justice and facilitating judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters between the member states , while ensuring the right to a fair trial and upholding the rights of the defence , are among the main objectives of the eu’s area of freedom , security and justice enshrined in title v of the treaty.


### (2) it is thus important that appropriate channels are developed to ensure that justice systems can efficiently cooperate in a digital way. therefore , it is essential to establish , at union level , an information technology instrument that allows swift , direct , interoperable , reliable and secure cross-border electronic exchange of case related data. such a system , enabling citizens and businesses to exchange documents and evidence in digital form with judicial or other competent authorities , when provided forby national or union law , should contribute to improving access to justice. ### (2) it is thus important that appropriate channels are developed to ensure that justice systems can efficiently cooperate in a digital way. therefore , it is essential to establish , at union level , an information technology instrument that allows swift , direct , interoperable , reliable and secure cross-border electronic exchange of case related data , while always respecting the right to protection of personal data. such a system , enabling citizens and businesses to exchange documents and evidence in digital form with judicial or other competent authorities , when provided forby national or union law , should contribute to improving access to justice , increasing mutual trust between member states' judicial authorities , and upholding the rights of the defence in criminal proceedings.


### (4) the e-codex system is a tool specifically designed to facilitate the cross-border electronic exchange of messages in the justice area. in the context of increased digitalisation of proceedings in civil and criminal matters , the aim of the e-codex system is to improve the efficiency of cross-border communication between the competent authorities and facilitate access to justice of citizens and businesses. it has been managed up to date by a consortium of member states and organisations with funding from union programmes ### (4) the e-codex system is a tool specifically designed to facilitate the cross-border electronic exchange of messages in the justice area. in the context of increased digitalisation of proceedings in civil and criminal matters , the aim of the e-codex system is to improve the efficiency of cross-border communication between the competent authorities and facilitate access to justice of citizens and businesses. until now , it has been managed by a consortium of member states and organisations with funding from union programmes.


### (6) given the importance of the e-codex system for cross-border exchanges in the justice area in the union , there should be a sustainable union legal framework establishing the e-codex system and providing rules regarding its functioning and development. such legal framework should clearly define and frame the components of the e-codex system in order to guarantee its technical sustainability. the system should define the it components of an access point , which should consist of a gateway for the purpose of secure communication with other identified gateways and a connector for the purpose of supporting the message exchanges. it should also include digital procedural standards consisting of the business process models and templates defining the electronic format of the documents used in the context of those procedures to support the use of e-codex access points for legal procedures provided for by legal acts adopted in the area of judicial cooperation and to enable the exchange of information between the access points. ### (6) given the importance of the e-codex system for cross-border exchanges in the justice area in the union , there should be a sustainable union legal framework establishing the e-codex system and providing rules regarding its functioning and development. such legal framework should ensure the protection of fundamental rights as provided for in the charter , in particular those outlined in title vi and article 47 on the right to an effective remedy and to a fair trial. it shall in no way undermine the protection of procedural rights that are essential to the protection of those rights , including those stemming from directives (eu) 2016/343 , 2013/48/eu , 2012/13/eu and 2010/64/eu , and to facilitate judicial cooperation between the member states. it should also clearly define and frame the components of the e-codex system in order to guarantee its technical sustainability and security. the system should define the it components of an access point , which should consist of a gateway for the purpose of secure communication with other identified gateways and a connector for the purpose of supporting the message exchanges. it should also include digital procedural standards consisting of the business process models defining the electronic format of the data exchanged in the context of those procedures to support the use of e-codex access points for legal procedures provided for by legal acts adopted in the area of judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters and to enable the exchange of information between the access points.


### (6) given the importance of the e-codex system for cross-border exchanges in the justice area in the union , there should be a sustainable union legal framework establishing the e-codex system and providing rules regarding its functioning and development. such legal framework should clearly define and frame the components of the e-codex system in order to guarantee its technical sustainability. the system should define the it components of an access point , which should consist of a gateway for the purpose of secure communication with other identified gateways and a connector for the purpose of supporting the message exchanges. it should also include digital procedural standards consisting of the business process models and templates defining the electronic format of the documents used in the context of those procedures to support the use of e-codex access points for legal procedures provided for by legal acts adopted in the area of judicial cooperation and to enable the exchange of information between the access points. ### (6) given the importance of the e-codex system for cross-border exchanges in the justice area in the union , there should be a sustainable union legal framework establishing the e-codex system and providing rules regarding its functioning and development. such legal framework should clearly define and frame the components of the e-codex system in order to guarantee its technical sustainability. it should also ensure equality of arms in the context of cross-border criminal proceedings , by ensuring equal access to the e-codex system for prosecutors and those representing the prosecution , on the one hand , and representatives of suspects and accused persons , on the other. the system should define the it components of an access point , which should consist of a gateway for the purpose of secure communication with other identified gateways and a connector for the purpose of supporting the message exchanges. it should also include digital procedural standards consisting of the business process models and templates defining the electronic format of the documents used in the context of those procedures to support the use of e-codex access points for legal procedures provided for by legal acts adopted in the area of judicial cooperation and to enable the exchange of information between the access points.


### (7) since it is necessary to ensure the long term sustainability of the e-codex system and its governance while taking into account the independence of the national judiciaries , an appropriate entity for the operational management of the system should be designated. ### (7) since it is necessary to ensure the long term sustainability of the e-codex system and its governance while ensuring the independence of the national judiciaries , an appropriate entity for the operational management of the system should be designated. in order to ensure the independence of the national judiciaries , including in the governance of the e-codex system , there should be a clear separation of services and personnel , data and administration inside the european union agency for the operational management of large-scale it systems in the area of freedom , security and justice (eu-lisa) established by regulation (eu) 2018/1726 of the european parliament and of the council1a.


### (9) according to article 19 of regulation (eu) 2018/1726 the role of the management board of eu-lisa is to ensure that all decisions and actions of the agency affecting large-scale it systems in the area of freedom , security and justice respect the principle of independence of the judiciary. the governance structure of the agency and financing scheme further guarantee the respect of that principle. ìt is also important to involve the legal professions and other stakeholders in the governance of the e-codex system through the programme management board. ### (9) according to article 19 of regulation (eu) 2018/1726 the role of the management board of eu-lisa is , inter alia , to ensure that all decisions and actions of the agency affecting large-scale it systems in the area of freedom , security and justice respect the principle of independence of the judiciary. the agency and financing scheme should further guarantee the respect of that principle. it is also important to involve the legal professions and other relevant stakeholders in the governance of the e-codex system through the programme management board. the detailed arrangements and conditions as regards the involvement of the legal professions and other relevant stakeholders should allow for their effective participation and consultation , namely by duly considering their feedback.


### (15) the member states should maintain a list of authorised e-codex access points operated within their territory , and communicate them to eu-lisa in order to enable the interaction between them in the context of the relevant procedures. the commission should maintain a similar list of authorised e-codex access points operated by the union institutions , bodies and agencies for the same reason. the entities operating the access points at national level may be public authorities , organisations representing legal practitioners or private companies. bearing in mind the decentralised nature of the e-codex system , while eu-lisa should ensure the operational management of the e-codex system , the responsibility for setting up and operating the authorised e-codex access points should lie exclusively with the entities operating the relevant access points. the entities operating the authorised e-codex access point should bear the responsibility for any damage resulting from the operation of the authorised e-codex access point. ### (15) the member states should maintain a list of authorised e-codex access points operated within their territory , and communicate them to eu-lisa in order to enable the interaction between them in the context of the relevant procedures. the commission should maintain and publish a similar list of authorised e-codex access points operated by the union institutions , bodies and agencies for the same reason.


### (15) the member states should maintain a list of authorised e-codex access points operated within their territory , and communicate them to eu-lisa in order to enable the interaction between them in the context of the relevant procedures. the commission should maintain a similar list of authorised e-codex access points operated by the union institutions , bodies and agencies for the same reason. the entities operating the access points at national level may be public authorities , organisations representing legal practitioners or private companies. bearing in mind the decentralised nature of the e-codex system , while eu-lisa should ensure the operational management of the e-codex system , the responsibility for setting up and operating the authorised e-codex access points should lie exclusively with the entities operating the relevant access points. the entities operating the authorised e-codex access point should bear the responsibility for any damage resulting from the operation of the authorised e-codex access point. ### (15) the member states should maintain a list of authorised e-codex access points operated within their territory , and communicate them to eu-lisa in order to enable the interaction between them in the context of the relevant procedures. the commission should maintain a similar list of authorised e-codex access points operated by the union institutions , bodies and agencies for the same reason. the entities operating the access points at national level may be public authorities , organisations representing legal practitioners or private companies. in the case of entities which are not part of the public administration , member states should be directly responsible for their actions. bearing in mind the decentralised nature of the e-codex system , while eu-lisa should ensure the operational management of the e-codex system , the responsibility for setting up and operating the authorised e-codex access points should lie exclusively with the entities operating the relevant access points. the entities operating the authorised e-codex access point should bear the responsibility for any damage resulting from the operation of the authorised e-codex access point.