### the effectiveness of the targets set out in this regulation in reducing co2 emissions in reality is strongly dependent on the representativeness of the official test procedure . in accordance with the opinion of the scientific advice mechanism 23 and the recommendation of the european parliament , following its inquiry into emission measurements in the automotive sector24 , a mechanism should be put in place to assess the real world representativeness of vehicle co2 emissions and energy consumption values determined in accordance with regulation 2017 / 1151 . the commission should have the powers to ensure the public availability of such data , and , where necessary , develop the procedures needed for identifying and collecting the data required for performing such assessments . __________________ 23 high level group of scientific advisors , scientific opinion 1 / 2016 ' closing the gap between light - duty vehicle real - world co2 emissions and laboratory testing ' 24 european parliament recommendation of 4 april 2017 to the council and the commission following the inquiry into emission measurements in the automotive sector ) ### the effectiveness of the targets set out in this regulation in reducing co2 emissions in reality is strongly dependent on the representativeness of the official test procedure . in accordance with the opinion of the scientific advice mechanism 23 and the recommendation of the european parliament , following its inquiry into emission measurements in the automotive sector24 , a mechanism should be put in place to assess the real world representativeness of vehicle co2 emissions and energy consumption values determined in accordance with regulation 2017 / 1151 . the most reliable way to ensure the real world representativeness of type - approval values is by introducing a real - world co2 emissions test , which the commission should be empowered to develop . that test should be developed by means of delegated acts and introduced at the latest two years after the date of application of this regulation . however , in the meantime , and until it becomes applicable , compliance should be ensured by using data from the fuel consumption meters to be reported by manufacturers coupled with a not - to - exceed limit of a maximum of 15 % above the type - approval values measured as of 2021 using the wltp test . the commission should have the powers to ensure the public availability of such data , and to develop the procedures needed for collecting the fuel consumption data required for performing such assessments . __________________ 23 high level group of scientific advisors , scientific opinion 1 / 2016 ' closing the gap between light - duty vehicle real - world co2 emissions and laboratory testing ' . 24 european parliament recommendation of 4 april 2017 to the council and the commission following the inquiry into emission measurements in the automotive sector ) .


### the effectiveness of the targets set out in this regulation in reducing co2 emissions in reality is strongly dependent on the representativeness of the official test procedure . in accordance with the opinion of the scientific advice mechanism 23 and the recommendation of the european parliament , following its inquiry into emission measurements in the automotive sector24 , a mechanism should be put in place to assess the real world representativeness of vehicle co2 emissions and energy consumption values determined in accordance with regulation 2017 / 1151 . the commission should have the powers to ensure the public availability of such data , and , where necessary , develop the procedures needed for identifying and collecting the data required for performing such assessments . __________________ 23 high level group of scientific advisors , scientific opinion 1 / 2016 ' closing the gap between light - duty vehicle real - world co2 emissions and laboratory testing ' 24 european parliament recommendation of 4 april 2017 to the council and the commission following the inquiry into emission measurements in the automotive sector ) ### the effectiveness of the targets set out in this regulation in reducing co2 emissions in reality is strongly dependent on the representativeness of the official test procedure . in accordance with the opinion of the scientific advice mechanism and the recommendation of the european parliament , following its inquiry into emission measurements in the automotive sector , a mechanism should be put in place to assess the real world representativeness of vehicle co2 emissions and energy consumption values determined in accordance with regulation 2017 / 1151 . the most reliable way to ensure the real world representativeness of type - approval values is by introducing a real - world co2 emissions test , which the commission should be empowered to develop . that test should be developed by means of delegated acts and introduced at the latest two years after the date of application of this regulation . however , in the meantime , and until it becomes applicable , compliance should be ensured by using data from the fuel consumption meters to be reported by manufacturers coupled with a not - to - exceed limit of a maximum of 10 % above the type - approval values measured as of 2021 using the wltp test . the commission should have the powers to ensure the public availability of such data , and to develop the procedures needed for collecting the fuel consumption data required for performing such assessments . __________________ 23 high level group of scientific advisors , scientific opinion 1 / 2016 ' closing the gap between light - duty vehicle real - world co2 emissions and laboratory testing ' 24 european parliament recommendation of 4 april 2017 to the council and the commission following the inquiry into emission measurements in the automotive sector )


### the effectiveness of the targets set out in this regulation in reducing co2 emissions in reality is strongly dependent on the representativeness of the official test procedure . in accordance with the opinion of the scientific advice mechanism 23 and the recommendation of the european parliament , following its inquiry into emission measurements in the automotive sector24 , a mechanism should be put in place to assess the real world representativeness of vehicle co2 emissions and energy consumption values determined in accordance with regulation 2017 / 1151 . the commission should have the powers to ensure the public availability of such data , and , where necessary , develop the procedures needed for identifying and collecting the data required for performing such assessments . __________________ 23 high level group of scientific advisors , scientific opinion 1 / 2016 ' closing the gap between light - duty vehicle real - world co2 emissions and laboratory testing ' 24 european parliament recommendation of 4 april 2017 to the council and the commission following the inquiry into emission measurements in the automotive sector ) ### the effectiveness of the targets set out in this regulation in reducing co2 emissions in reality is strongly dependent on the representativeness of the official test procedure . in accordance with the opinion of the scientific advice mechanism 23 and the recommendation of the european parliament , following its inquiry into emission measurements in the automotive sector24 , a mechanism should be put in place to assess the real world representativeness of vehicle co2 emissions and energy consumption values determined in accordance with regulation 2017 / 1151 . the commission should have the powers to ensure the public availability of such data , and , where necessary , develop the procedures needed for identifying and collecting the data required for performing such assessments . based on this data , the commission should calculate and publish each year a specific real - world exceedance factor for each manufacturer that reflects the difference between the averaged real - world co2 emissions of its newly registered vehicles in a certain year and the type approved values . the real world exceedance factors should be used to adjust the specific emission targets for each manufacturer . __________________ 23 high level group of scientific advisors , scientific opinion 1 / 2016 ' closing the gap between light - duty vehicle real - world co2 emissions and laboratory testing ' 24 european parliament recommendation of 4 april 2017 to the council and the commission following the inquiry into emission measurements in the automotive sector )


### the register shall be publicly available . ### the register shall be publicly available , including in digital format .


### where the commission considers that the manufacturer is eligible for a derogation applied for under paragraph 1 and is satisfied that the specific emissions target proposed by the manufacturer is consistent with its reduction potential , including the economic and technological potential to reduce its specific emissions of co2 , and taking into account the characteristics of the market for the type of light commercial vehicle manufactured , the commission shall grant a derogation to the manufacturer . the application shall be submitted at the latest by 31 october of the first year in which the derogation shall apply . ### where the commission considers that the manufacturer is eligible for a derogation applied for under paragraph 1 and is satisfied that the specific emissions target proposed by the manufacturer is consistent with its reduction potential , including the economic and technological potential to reduce its specific emissions of co2 , and taking into account the characteristics of the market for the type of passenger car or light commercial vehicle manufactured , the commission shall grant a derogation to the manufacturer . the application shall be submitted at the latest by 31 october of the first year in which the derogation shall apply .


### such technologies shall be taken into consideration only if the methodology used to assess them is capable of producing verifiable , repeatable and comparable results . ### such technologies shall be taken into consideration only if the methodology used to assess them is capable of producing verifiable , repeatable and comparable results , and only until the wltp - measured value is not complemented or replaced by other data that are more representative of real world emissions .


### the commission may adopt the measures referred to in this article by means of implementing acts in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 15 . ### the commission shall adopt detailed rules on the procedures for reporting data from fuel consumption meters by means of implementing acts in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 15 .


### the power to adopt delegated acts referred to in the second subparagraph of article 7 , article 10 , the fourth subparagraph of article 11 , article 13 and the second subparagraph of article 14 shall be conferred on the commission for an indeterminate period of time from [ the date of entry into force of this regulation ] . ### the power to adopt delegated acts referred to in the second subparagraph of article 7 , article 7 , article 10 , the fourth subparagraph of article 11 , article 12 , article 13 and the second subparagraph of article 14 shall be conferred on the commission for a period of five years from . . . [ the date of entry into force of this regulation ] . the commission shall draw up a report in respect of the delegation of power not later than nine months before the end of the five - year period . the delegation of power shall be tacitly extended for periods of an identical duration , unless the european parliament or the council opposes such extension not later than three months before the end of each period .


### the delegation of power referred to in the second subparagraph of article 7 , article 10 , the fourth subparagraph of article 11 , article 13 and the second subparagraph of article 14 may be revoked at any time by the european parliament or by the council . a decision to revoke shall put an end to the delegation of the power specified in that decision . it shall take effect the day following the publication of the decision in the official journal of the european union or at a later date specified therein . it shall not affect the validity of any delegated acts already in force . ### the delegation of power referred to in the second subparagraph of article 7 , article 7 , article 10 , the fourth subparagraph of article 11 , article 12 , article 13 and the second subparagraph of article 14 may be revoked at any time by the european parliament or by the council . a decision to revoke shall put an end to the delegation of the power specified in that decision . it shall take effect the day following the publication of the decision in the official journal of the european union or at a later date specified therein . it shall not affect the validity of any delegated acts already in force .


### a delegated act adopted pursuant to the second subparagraph of article 7 , article 10 , the fourth subparagraph of article 11 , article 13 and the second subparagraph of article 14 shall enter into force only if no objection has been expressed either by the european parliament or by the council within a period of two months of notification of that act to the european parliament and the council or if , before the expiry of that period , the european parliament and the council have both informed the commission that they will not object . that period shall be extended by two months at the initiative of the european parliament or of the council . ### a delegated act adopted pursuant to the second subparagraph of article 7 , article 7 , article 10 , the fourth subparagraph of article 11 , article 12 , article 13 and the second subparagraph of article 14 shall enter into force only if no objection has been expressed either by the european parliament or by the council within a period of two months of notification of that act to the european parliament and the council or if , before the expiry of that period , the european parliament and the council have both informed the commission that they will not object . that period shall be extended by two months at the initiative of the european parliament or of the council .


### the efsi should target projects delivering high societal and economic value . in particular , the efsi should target projects that promote job creation , long - term growth and competitiveness . the efsi should support a wide range of financial products , including equity , debt or guarantees , to best accommodate the needs of the individual project . this wide range of products should allow the efsi to adapt to market needs whilst encouraging private investment in the projects . the efsi should not be a substitute for private market finance but should instead catalyse private finance by addressing market failures so as to ensure the most effective and strategic use of public money . the requirement for consistency with state aid principles should contribute to such effective and strategic use . ### the efsi should target projects delivering high societal and economic value . in particular , the efsi should target projects that promote education , training , research , job creation , long - term sustainable growth and competitiveness . the efsi should support a wide range of financial products , including equity , debt or guarantees , to best accommodate the needs of the individual project . this wide range of products should allow the efsi to adapt to market needs whilst encouraging private investment in the projects . the efsi should not be a substitute for private market finance but should instead catalyse private finance by addressing market failures so as to ensure the most effective and strategic use of public money . the requirement for consistency with state aid principles should contribute to such effective and strategic use .


### to achieve those objectives , the procedures and conditions required for the european citizens’ initiative should be clear , simple , user - friendly and proportionate to the nature of this instrument . they should strike a judicious balance between rights and obligations . ### to achieve those objectives , the procedures and conditions required for the european citizens’ initiative should be clear , simple , user - friendly including for persons with disabilities and proportionate to the nature of this instrument . they should strike a judicious balance between rights and obligations and ensure that successful initiatives receive an appropriate follow up from the commission .


### in order to ensure that an initiative is representative of a union interest while ensuring that the instrument remains easy to use the minimum number of member states from which citizens must come should be set at one quarter of member states . ### in order to ensure that an initiative is representative of a union interest while ensuring that the instrument remains easy to use the minimum number of member states from which citizens must come should be set at one quarter of member states and the minimum number of signatories coming from each of those member states should be degressively proportional and correspond to the number of members of the european parliament elected in each member state , multiplied by 750 .


### in order to make the european citizens’ initiative more accessible and to provide support to citizens and organisers , the commission should provide information and assistance to organisers and make available an online collaborative platform to provide a dedicated discussion forum and information and advice about the european citizens’ initiative . to ensure proximity to citizens , member states should establish one or more contact points in their respective territories to provide citizens with information and assistance regarding the european citizens’ initiative . ### in order to make the european citizens ' initiative more accessible and to provide support to citizens and organisers , the commission should provide information and assistance free of charge to organisers and make available an online collaborative platform to provide a dedicated discussion forum and information and advice about the european citizens ' initiative , that will serve also as a platform for the exchange of ideas and best practices and to enable citizens to discuss proposed citizens ' initiatives and to formulate new ones . to ensure proximity to citizens , member states building upon the europe direct information centres should establish one or more eci help desks in their respective territories to provide citizens with information and assistance regarding the european citizens’ initiative on technical issues related to the eci , including how to promote the eci at national and local level . an annual eci conference at eu level should be organised on the eci day with the aim of further strengthening dialogue and exchange of best practices between organisers , civil society and social partners and eu institutions and to assess the state of implementation and effectiveness of the eci .


### in order to make the european citizens’ initiative more accessible , and taking into account that the procedures and conditions required for the european citizens’ initiative should be clear , simple , user - friendly and proportionate , it is appropriate to partially register an initiative in cases where only part or parts of the initiative meet the requirements for registration under this regulation . initiatives should be partially registered where a substantial part of the initiative , including its main objectives , does not manifestly fall outside the framework of the commission’s powers to submit a proposal for a legal act of the union for the purpose of implementing the treaties and all the other registration requirements are met . clarity and transparency should be ensured as regards the scope of the partial registration and potential signatories should be informed of the scope of the registration and of the fact that statements of support are collected only in relation to the scope of the registration of the initiative . ### in order to make the european citizens ' initiative more accessible , and taking into account that the procedures and conditions required for the european citizens’ initiative should be clear , simple , user - friendly and proportionate , it is appropriate to partially register an initiative in cases where only part or parts of the initiative meet the requirements for registration under this regulation . initiatives should be partially registered where part of the initiative , including its main objectives , does not manifestly fall outside the framework of the commission ' s powers to submit a proposal for a legal act of the union for the purpose of implementing the treaties and all the other registration requirements are met . clarity and transparency should be ensured as regards the scope of the partial registration and potential signatories should be informed of the scope of the registration and of the fact that statements of support are collected only in relation to the scope of the registration of the initiative . in the case of partial registration the commission should advise organisers about the legal basis of their proposal and propose possible solutions to avoid further inadmissibility .


### statements of support for an initiative should be collected within a specific time limit . in order to ensure that an initiative remains relevant , whilst taking into account the complexity of collecting statements of support across the union , that time limit should not be longer than 12 months from the date of the start of the collection period determined by the group of organisers . ### statements of support for an initiative should be collected within a specific time limit . in order to ensure that an initiative remains relevant , whilst taking into account the complexity of collecting statements of support across the union , that time limit should not be longer than 12 months from the date of the start of the collection period determined by the group of organisers . if organisers decide not to use the central system for the online collection of statements of support provided by the commission , the period shall start only after member states verify the conformity of an alternative online collection systems within the requirements of this regulation .


### in order to make the european citizens’ initiative more accessible , less burdensome and easier to use for organisers and citizens , the commission should set - up and operate a central system for the online collection of statements of support . that system should be made available free of charge to groups of organisers and should comprise the necessary technical features allowing online collection including the hosting and software as well as accessibility features ensuring that citizens ' with disabilities can provide support to the initiatives . that system should be set - up and maintained in accordance with commission decision 2017 / 4626 . _________________ 26 commission decision 2017 / 46 of 10 january 2017 on the security of communication and information systems in the european commission . ### in order to make the european citizens’ initiative more accessible , less burdensome and easier to use for organisers and citizens , the commission should set - up and operate a central system for the online collection of statements of support incorporating the relevant technical and security measures necessary to comply with the provisions of this regulation . that system should be voluntary and made available free of charge to groups of organisers and should comprise the necessary technical features allowing online collection including the hosting and software as well as accessibility features ensuring that citizens ' with disabilities can provide support to the initiatives . that system should be set - up and maintained in accordance with commission decision 2017 / 4626 . _________________ 26 commission decision 2017 / 46 of 10 january 2017 on the security of communication and information systems in the european commission .


### it is appropriate for member states to verify the conformity of the individual online collection systems set up by the group of organisers with the requirements of this regulation and issue a document certifying such conformity before statements of support are collected . the certification of the individual online collection systems should be carried out by the competent national authority of the member states in which the data collected through the individual online collection system is stored . without prejudice to the powers of the national supervisory authorities under the general data protection regulation , member states should designate the competent national authority responsible for the certification of the systems . member states should mutually recognise the certificates issued by their competent authorities . ### it is appropriate for member states to verify the conformity of the individual online collection systems set up by the group of organisers with the requirements of this regulation and issue a document certifying such conformity before organisers initiate the 12 month period for collecting statements of support . the certification of the individual online collection systems should be carried out by the competent national authority of the member states in which the data collected through the individual online collection system is stored . without prejudice to the powers of the national supervisory authorities under the general data protection regulation , member states should designate the competent national authority responsible for the certification of the systems . member states should mutually recognise the certificates issued by their competent authorities .


### it is appropriate for member states to verify the conformity of the individual online collection systems set up by the group of organisers with the requirements of this regulation and issue a document certifying such conformity before statements of support are collected . the certification of the individual online collection systems should be carried out by the competent national authority of the member states in which the data collected through the individual online collection system is stored . without prejudice to the powers of the national supervisory authorities under the general data protection regulation , member states should designate the competent national authority responsible for the certification of the systems . member states should mutually recognise the certificates issued by their competent authorities . ### it is appropriate for member states to verify the conformity of the individual online collection systems set up by the group of organisers with the requirements of this regulation and issue a document certifying such conformity before statements of support are collected . the certification of the individual online collection systems should be carried out by the competent national authority of the member states in which the data collected through the individual online collection system is stored . these actions should be carried out free of charge . without prejudice to the powers of the national supervisory authorities under the general data protection regulation , member states should designate the competent national authority responsible for the certification of the systems . member states should mutually recognise the certificates issued by their competent authorities .


### to ensure the effective participation of citizens in the democratic life of the union , the commission should examine a valid initiative and respond to it . the commission should therefore set out its legal and political conclusions as well as the action it intends to take within a period of five months from the receipt of the initiative . the commission should explain in a clear , comprehensible and detailed manner the reasons for its intended action , and should likewise give its reasons if it does not intend to take any action . ### to ensure the effective participation of citizens in the democratic life of the union , the commission after the public hearing and plenary debate in the european parliament and after proper dialogue with the eci organisers , should examine a valid initiative and respond to it in due time taking into account that successful initiatives should have an appropriate follow up . the commission should therefore set out its legal and political conclusions as well as the legislative or non - legislative actions it intends to take within a period of five months from the receipt of the initiative . the commission should explain in a clear , comprehensible and detailed manner the reasons for its intended action , and should likewise give its detailed and clear reasons if it does not intend to take any action , be it partial or complete refusal .


### in order to contribute to the promotion of active participation of citizens in the political life of the union , the commission and the organisers should be able to collect , in accordance with data protection rules , email addresses of signatories for the purpose of communication activities regarding an initiative , in particular for the purpose of providing information on the follow - up actions in response to an initiative . the collection of email addresses should be optional and subject to the consent of signatories . email addresses should not be collected as part of the statements of support forms and potential signatories should be informed that their right to support an initiative is not conditional on giving their consent to collecting their email addresses . ### in order to contribute to the promotion of active participation of citizens in the political life of the union , the commission and the organisers should be able to collect , in accordance with data protection rules , email addresses of signatories for the purpose of communication activities regarding an initiative , in particular for the purpose of providing information on the follow - up actions in response to an initiative . the collection of email addresses should be optional and subject to the explicit consent of signatories . email addresses should not be collected as part of the statements of support forms and potential signatories should be informed that their right to support an initiative is not conditional on giving their consent to collecting their email addresses . signatories should be able to withdraw their explicit consent for the collection of their email addresses at any time before and after the european citizens ' initiative has been closed in which case the commission and the eci organisers should immediately delete the email address from their database and stop communication with the signatories .


### the commission shall , upon request , provide information and assistance about the european citizens ' initiative to citizens and groups of organisers . ### the commission shall provide easily accessible exhaustive information and legal and technical assistance and guidance free of charge about the european citizens ' initiative to citizens and groups of organisers to allow them to clarify and define the objective and facilitate the registration of their eci .


### the commission shall make available an online collaborative platform providing citizens and groups of organisers with a discussion forum and information and advice about the european citizens’ initiative . ### the commission shall make available an online collaborative platform providing citizens and groups of organisers with a discussion forum and information about the european citizens’ initiative . the commission provides citizens and groups of organisers with advice .


### the commission shall make available an online register allowing groups of organisers to manage their initiative throughout the procedure . the register shall comprise a public website providing information on the european citizens’ initiative in general as well as on specific initiatives and their respective status . ### the commission shall make available an online register allowing groups of organisers to manage their initiative throughout the procedure . the register shall comprise a public website providing information on the european citizens’ initiative in general including on the eci financing and funding sources as well as on specific initiatives and their respective status .


### each member state shall establish one or more contact points to provide information and assistance to groups of organisers in setting up a european citizens’ initiative . ### each member state shall establish one or more contact points within their respective europe direct contact centre to provide information and assistance , as well as specific technical and legal guidelines to groups of organisers in setting up a european citizens’ initiative .


### the group of organisers may also designate a maximum of two other natural persons , chosen from among its members or otherwise , who are mandated to act on behalf of the contact persons for the purpose of liaising with the institutions of the union throughout the procedure . ### the group of organisers may also designate a maximum of three other natural persons , chosen from among its members or otherwise , who are mandated to act on behalf of the contact persons for the purpose of liaising with the institutions of the union throughout the procedure .


### the initiative is not manifestly contrary to the values of the union as set out in article 2 of the treaty on european union . ### the initiative is not manifestly contrary to the values of the union as set out in article 2 of the treaty on european union and rights enshrined in the european charter of fundamental rights .


### in that case , the group of organisers may either amend the initiative to take into account the commission ' s assessment to ensure that the initiative is in conformity with the requirement laid down in paragraph 3 or maintain or withdraw the initial initiative . the group of organisers shall inform the commission of its choice within one month of the receipt of the commission ' s assessment giving the reasons thereof , and shall , as the case may be , transmit amendments to the information referred to in annex ii to replace the initial initiative . ### in that case , the group of organisers may either amend the initiative to take into account the commission ' s assessment to ensure that the initiative is in conformity with the requirement laid down in paragraph 3 or maintain or withdraw the initial initiative . the group of organisers may alternatively seize the scrutiny board established by article 21a . to review the assessment of the commission . the group of organisers shall inform the commission of its choice within one month of the receipt of the commission ' s assessment giving the reasons thereof , and shall , as the case may be , transmit amendments to the information referred to in annex ii to replace the initial initiative .


### an initiative that has been registered shall be made public in the register . ### any initiative that has been submitted to the commission for registration , including every initiative that has been registered , shall be made public in the register and on the website of the european citizens ' initiative .


### the commission shall register an initiative under a single registration number and inform the group of organisers thereof . ### the commission shall register an initiative under a single registration decision and a single registration number and inform the group of organisers thereof .


### the group of organisers shall inform the commission of the number of collected statements of support in each member state at least every two months during the collection period and of the final number within three months of the end of the collection period for publication in the register . ### the group of organisers shall inform the commission of the number of collected statements of support in each member state at least every three months during the collection period and of the final number within three months of the end of the collection period for publication in the register . the commission should maintain regular communication with the eci organisers during and after the campaign .


### for the purpose of online collection of statements of support , the commission shall set - up and operate , by 1 january 2020 , a central online collection system , in accordance with commission decision 2017 / 46 of 10 january 2017 . ### for the purpose of online collection of statements of support , the commission shall set - up and operate , by 1 january 2020 , central online collection system , in accordance with commission decision 2017 / 46 of 10 january 2017 . the use of this system shall be voluntary and free of charge to all organisers .


### within three months after the submission of the initiative , the group of organisers shall be given the opportunity to present the initiative at a public hearing . ### within three months after the submission of the initiative , the group of organisers shall be given the opportunity to present the initiative at a public hearing in the european parliament in order to promote constructive and open public debate with all stakeholders , thus strengthening the european public sphere and democracy at eu level and reinforcing the importance of the initiative .


### the commission shall be represented in the hearing at an appropriate level . ### the commission and council shall be represented in the hearing at an appropriate level .


### within five months after the publication of the initiative in accordance with article 14 , and after the public hearing referred to in article 14 , the commission shall set out in a communication its legal and political conclusions on the initiative , the action it intends to take , if any , and its reasons for taking or not taking action . ### within five months after the publication of the initiative in accordance with article 14 , and after the public hearing referred to in article 14 , the commission shall set out in a communication its legal and political conclusions on the initiative , the action it intends to take , if any , and its reasons for taking or not taking action . the commission should give detailed and clear reasons and full justification for a decision not to take any action explaining its political conclusions to the public in a detailed and transparent manner .


### the commission shall raise public awareness about the existence of the european citizens ' initiative through communication activities and information campaigns , thereby contributing to promoting the active participation of citizens in the political life of the union . ### the commission and member states shall raise public awareness about the existence of the european citizens ' initiative through communication activities and information ad hoc campaigns , grass - root initiatives and the use of social and digital media thereby contributing to promoting the active participation of citizens in the political life of the union and promoting awareness of how citizens can influence and shape the european union through a european citizens ' initiative .


### for the purposes of communication and information activities regarding the initiative concerned and subject to consent by a signatory , his or her email address may be collected by a group of organisers or by the commission . ### for the purposes of communication and information activities regarding the initiative concerned and subject to explicit consent by a signatory , his or her email address may be collected by a group of organisers or by the commission .


### regulation of the european parliament and of the council on addressing geo - blocking and other forms of discrimination based on customers ' nationality , place of residence or place of establishment within the internal market and amending regulation no 2006 / 2004 and directive 2009 / 22 / ec ### regulation of the european parliament and of the council on addressing geo - blocking and other forms of discrimination based on customers ' country of origin , place of residence or place of establishment within the internal market and amending regulation no 2006 / 2004 and directive 2009 / 22 / ec


### this regulation should not affect acts of union law concerning judicial cooperation in civil matters , notably the provisions on the law applicable to contractual obligations and on jurisdiction set out in regulations no 593 / 2008 of the european parliament and of the council24 and 1215 / 2012 of the european parliament and of the council25 , including the application of those acts and provisions in individual cases . in particular , the mere fact that a trader acts in accordance with the provisions of this regulation should not be construed as implying that he directs his activities to the consumer ' s member state for the purpose of such application . _________________ 24 regulation no 593 / 2008 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 june 2008 on the law applicable to contractual obligations . 25 regulation no 1215 / 2012 of the european parliament and of the council of 12 december 2012 on jurisdiction and the recognition and enforcement of judgments in civil and commercial matters . ### this regulation introduces no additional rules to those concerning the law applicable to contractual obligations and on jurisdiction set out in regulations no 593 / 2008 of the european parliament and of the council24 and 1215 / 2012 of the european parliament and of the council . _________________ 24 regulation no 593 / 2008 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 june 2008 on the law applicable to contractual obligations .


### the second situation is where the trader provides electronically supplied services , other than services the main feature of which is the provision of access to and use of copyright protected works or other protected subject matter , such as cloud services , data warehousing services , website hosting and the provision of firewalls . in this case , no physical delivery is required , as the services are being supplied electronically . the trader can declare and pay vat in a simplified manner in accordance with the rules on vat mini - one - stop - shop set out in council implementing regulation no 282 / 2011 . ### the second situation is where the trader provides electronically supplied services , other than audio - visual services the main feature of which is the provision of access to and use of copyright - protected works or other protected subject matter , such as cloud services , data warehousing services , website hosting and the provision of firewalls . in this case , no physical delivery is required , as the services are being supplied electronically . the trader can declare and pay vat in a simplified manner in accordance with the rules on vat mini - one - stop - shop set out in council implementing regulation no 282 / 2011 .


### in all those situations , by virtue of the provisions on the law applicable to contractual obligations and on jurisdiction set out in regulations no 593 / 2008 and 1215 / 2012 , where a trader does not pursue his activities in the member state of the consumer or does not direct his activities there , or where the customer is not a consumer , compliance with this regulation does not imply any additional costs for the trader associated with jurisdiction or differences in applicable law . where , in contrast , a trader does pursue his activities in the consumer ' s member state or does direct his activities there , the trader has manifested its intention to establish commercial relations with consumers from that member state and thus been able to take account of any such costs . ### in all those situations , by virtue of the provisions on the law applicable to contractual obligations and on jurisdiction set out in regulations no 593 / 2008 and no 1215 / 2012 , where a trader does not pursue his activities in the member state of the consumer or does not clearly direct his activities there , or where the customer is not a consumer , compliance with this regulation does not imply any additional costs for the trader associated with jurisdiction or differences in applicable law . where , in contrast , a trader does pursue his activities in the consumer ' s member state or does direct his activities there , inter alia by the use of language – possibly , depending on the language , in combination with other criteria – , or by reference to currency or through prominence in local search engine results , manifesting his or her intention to establish commercial relations with consumers from that member state , he or she should be able to take account of any such costs .


### in all those situations , traders may in some cases be prevented from selling goods or providing services to certain customers or to customers in certain territories , for reasons related to the nationality , place of residence or place of establishment of the customer , as a consequence of a specific prohibition or a requirement laid down in union law or in the laws of member states in accordance with union law . laws of member states may also require , in accordance with union law , traders to respect certain rules on the pricing of books . traders should not be prevented from complying with such laws in as far as necessary . ### in those situations , traders may in some cases be prevented from selling goods or providing services to certain customers , as a consequence of a specific prohibition or a requirement laid down in union law or in the laws of member states in accordance with union law . laws of member states may also require , in accordance with union law , traders to respect certain rules on the pricing of books . traders should not be prevented from complying with such laws in as far as necessary .


### where the trader sells goods , provides services , or seeks to do so , in a member state other than the member state in which the customer has the place of residence or the place of establishment ; ### where the trader sells goods or provides services , including non - audio - visual copyright - protected works and services , or seeks to do so , in a member state other than the member state in which the customer has the place of residence or the place of establishment ;


### where the trader sells goods , provides services , or seeks to do so , in the same member state as the one in which the customer has the place of residence or place of establishment , but the customer is a national of another member state ; ### where the trader sells goods or provides services , including non - audio - visual copyright - protected works and services , or seeks to do so , in the same member state as the one in which the customer has the place of residence or place of establishment , but the customer is a national of another member state ;


### where the trader sells goods or provides services , or seeks to do so , in a member state in which the customer is temporarily located without residing in that member state or having the place of establishment in that member state . ### where the trader sells goods or provides services , including non - audio - visual copyright - protected works and services , or seeks to do so , in a member state in which the customer is temporarily located without residing in that member state or having the place of establishment in that member state .


### traders shall not apply different general conditions of access to their goods or services , for reasons related to the nationality , place of residence or place of establishment of the customer , in the following situations : ### within each of their points of sale , traders shall not apply different general conditions of access to their goods or services , for reasons related to the nationality , place of residence or place of establishment of the customer :


### where the trader sells goods and those goods are not delivered cross - border to the member state of the customer by the trader or on his or her behalf ; ### where the trader sells goods , and those goods are delivered&#160 ; in his or her member state of establishment to the customer , in the traders premises or at any other physical location in that member sate ;


### with respect to sales of books , the prohibition set out in paragraph 1 shall not preclude traders from applying different prices to customers in certain territories in so far as they are required to do so under the laws of member states in accordance with union law . ### with respect to sales of books , the prohibition set out in paragraph 1 shall be without prejudice to specific legislation regarding pricing in member states in accordance with union law .


### the last substantive amendment to directive 89 / 552 / eec of the council27 , later codified by directive 2010 / 13 / eu of the european parliament and of the council28 , was made in 2007 with the adoption of directive 2007 / 65 / ec of the european parliament and of the council29 . since then , the market of audiovisual media services has evolved significantly and rapidly . technical developments allow for new types of services and user experiences . the viewing habits , particularly of younger generations , have changed significantly . while the main tv screen remains an important device to share audiovisual experiences , many viewers have moved to other , portable devices to watch audiovisual content . traditional tv content accounts still for a major share of the average daily viewing time . however , new types of content , such as short videos or user - generated content , gain increasing importance and new players , including providers of video - on - demand services and video - sharing platforms , are now well - established . __________________ 27 directive 89 / 552 / eec of the european parliament and of the council of 3 october 1989 on the coordination of certain provisions laid down by law , regulation or administrative action in member states concerning the provision of audiovisual media services . 28 directive 2010 / 13 / eu of the european parliament and of the council of 10 march 2010 on the coordination of certain provisions laid down by law , regulation or administrative action in member states concerning the provision of audiovisual media services . 29 directive 2007 / 65 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 11 december 2007 amending council directive 89 / 552 / eec on the coordination of certain provisions laid down by law , regulation or administrative action in member states concerning the pursuit of television broadcasting activities . ### the last substantive amendment to directive 89 / 552 / eec of the council27 , later codified by directive 2010 / 13 / eu of the european parliament and of the council28 , was made in 2007 with the adoption of directive 2007 / 65 / ec of the european parliament and of the council29 . since then , the market of audiovisual media services has evolved significantly and rapidly . technical developments allow for new types of services and user experiences . the viewing habits , particularly of younger generations , have changed significantly . while the main tv screen remains an important device to share audiovisual experiences , many viewers have moved to other , portable devices to watch audiovisual content . traditional tv content accounts still for a major share of the average daily viewing time . however , new types of content , such as short videos or user - generated content , gain increasing importance and new players , including providers of video - on - demand services and video - sharing platforms , are now well - established . an updated legal framework is therefore required in order to reflect developments in the market and to achieve a balance between access to online content services and consumer protection . __________________ 27 directive 89 / 552 / eec of the european parliament and of the council of 3 october 1989 on the coordination of certain provisions laid down by law , regulation or administrative action in member states concerning the provision of audiovisual media services . 28 directive 2010 / 13 / eu of the european parliament and of the council of 10 march 2010 on the coordination of certain provisions laid down by law , regulation or administrative action in member states concerning the provision of audiovisual media services . 29 directive 2007 / 65 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 11 december 2007 amending council directive 89 / 552 / eec on the coordination of certain provisions laid down by law , regulation or administrative action in member states concerning the pursuit of television broadcasting activities .


### establishing jurisdiction requires an assessment of factual situations against the criteria laid down in directive 2010 / 13 / eu . the assessment of such factual situations might lead to conflicting results . in the application of the cooperation procedures provided for in articles 3 and 4 of directive 2010 / 13 / eu , it is important that the commission can base its findings on reliable facts . the european regulators group for audiovisual media services should therefore be empowered to provide opinions on jurisdiction upon the commission ' s request . ### establishing jurisdiction requires an assessment of factual situations against the criteria laid down in directive 2010 / 13 / eu . the assessment of such factual situations might lead to conflicting results . in the application of the cooperation procedures provided for in articles 3 and 4 of directive 2010 / 13 / eu , it is important that the commission can base its findings on reliable facts . the commission can ask the european regulators group for audiovisual media services to provide opinions on jurisdiction .


### in its communication to the european parliament and to the council on better regulation for better results – an eu agenda31 , the commission stressed that when considering policy solutions , it will consider both regulatory and well - designed non - regulatory means , modelled on the community of practice and the principles for better self - and co - regulation32 . a number of codes set up in the areas coordinated by the directive have proved to be well designed , in line with the principles for better self - and co - regulation . the existence of a legislative backstop has been considered an important success factor in promoting compliance with a self - or co - regulatory code . it is equally important that the codes establish specific targets and objectives allowing for the regular , transparent and independent monitoring and evaluation of the objectives aimed by the codes . graduated sanctions which maintain an element of proportionality are usually considered to be an effective approach in enforcing a scheme . these principles should be followed by the self - and co - regulatory codes adopted in the areas coordinated by this directive . __________________ 31 com 215 final 32 https : / / ec . europa . eu / digital - single - market / communities / better - self - and - co - regulation ### in its communication to the european parliament and to the council on better regulation for better results – an eu agenda31 , the commission stressed that when considering policy solutions , it will consider both regulatory and well - designed non - regulatory means , modelled on the community of practice and the principles for better self - and co - regulation32 . a number of codes set up in the areas coordinated by the directive have proved to be well designed , in line with the principles for better self - and co - regulation . the existence of a legislative backstop has been considered an important success factor in promoting compliance with a self - or co - regulatory codes ' period . member states should ensure the enforcement of self - regulatory or co - regulatory codes . it is equally important that the codes establish specific targets and objectives allowing for the regular , transparent and independent monitoring and evaluation of the objectives aimed by the codes . graduated sanctions which maintain an element of proportionality are usually considered to be an effective approach in enforcing a scheme . these principles should be followed by the self - and co - regulatory codes adopted in the areas coordinated by this directive . __________________ 31 com 215 final 32 https : / / ec . europa . eu / digital - single - market / communities / better - self - and - co - regulation


### similarly , member states should be encouraged to ensure that self - and co - regulatory codes of conduct are used to effectively limit the exposure of children and minors to audiovisual commercial communications for alcoholic beverages . certain co - regulatory or self - regulatory systems exist at union and national level in order to market responsibly alcoholic beverages , including in audiovisual commercial communications . those systems should be further encouraged , in particular those aiming at ensuring that responsible drinking messages accompany audiovisual commercial communications for alcoholic beverages . ### similarly , member states should be encouraged to ensure that self - and co - regulation are used to effectively end the exposure of children and minors to audiovisual commercial communications for alcoholic products . certain co - regulatory or self - regulatory systems exist at union and national level in order to market responsibly alcoholic beverages , including in audiovisual commercial communications . those systems should be further encouraged and member states should be allowed to take further steps in drafting national guidelines , in particular those aiming at ensuring that responsible drinking messages accompany audiovisual commercial communications for alcoholic products .


### sponsorship represents an important means of financing audiovisual media services or programmes while promoting a legal or physical person ' s name , trade mark , image , activities or products . as such , for sponsorship to constitute a valuable form of advertising technique for advertisers and audiovisual media service providers , sponsorship announcements can contain promotional references to the goods or services of the sponsor , while not directly encouraging the purchase of the goods and services . sponsorship announcements should continue to clearly inform the viewers of the existence of a sponsorship agreement . the content of sponsored programmes should not be influenced in such a way as to affect the audiovisual media service provider ' s editorial independence . ### sponsorship represents an important means of financing audiovisual media services or programmes while promoting a legal or physical person ' s name , trade mark , image , activities or products . as such , for sponsorship to constitute a valuable form of advertising technique for advertisers and audiovisual media service providers , sponsorship announcements can contain promotional references to the goods or services of the sponsor , while not being allowed to directly encourage the purchase of the goods and services . sponsorship announcements should continue to clearly inform the viewers of the existence of a sponsorship agreement . the content of sponsored programmes should not be influenced in such a way as to affect the audiovisual media service provider ' s editorial independence .


### ‘ 5a . member states shall communicate to the commission a list of the audiovisual media service providers under their jurisdiction and the criteria set out in paragraphs 2 to 5 on which their jurisdiction is based . they shall subsequently inform the commission without undue delay of any changes to that list . the commission shall ensure that the competent independent regulatory authorities have access to this information . ### ‘ 5a . member states shall communicate to the commission a list of the audiovisual media service providers under their jurisdiction and the criteria set out in paragraphs 2 to 5 on which their jurisdiction is based . they shall subsequently inform the commission without undue delay of any changes to that list . the commission shall ensure that the competent independent regulatory authorities have access to this information . in accordance with the principle of transparency , the commission shall make the list referred to in this paragraph publicly accessible .


### where the commission considers the notification as incomplete , it shall request all necessary additional information . the commission shall inform the member state of the receipt of the response to that request . ### where the commission considers the notification as incomplete , it shall without delay request all necessary additional information . the commission shall inform the member state of the receipt of the response to that request .


### product placements ### product placements which do not conflict with article 11 .


### video - sharing platform providers or , where applicable , the organisations representing those providers in this respect shall submit to the commission draft union codes of conduct and amendments to existing union codes of conduct . the commission may request erga to give an opinion on the drafts , amendments or extensions of those codes of conduct . the commission may give appropriate publicity to those codes of conduct . ### video - sharing platform providers or , where applicable , the organisations representing those providers in this respect shall submit to the commission draft union codes of conduct and amendments to existing union codes of conduct . the commission may request erga to give an opinion on the drafts , amendments or extensions of those codes of conduct . with due regard for the principle of transparency , the commission shall make those codes of conduct public .


### member states shall ensure that national regulatory authorities exercise their powers impartially and transparently and in accordance with the objectives of this directive , in particular media pluralism , cultural diversity , consumer protection , internal market and the promotion of fair competition . ### member states shall ensure that national regulatory authorities exercise their powers independently , impartially and transparently and in accordance with the objectives of this directive , regarding in particular media independence and pluralism , cultural diversity , consumer protection , internal market and the promotion of fair competition .


### on 20 june 2017 , the council endorsed the union response16 to the ‘ un 2030 agenda for sustainable development’17 — a sustainable european future . the council underlined the importance of achieving sustainable development across the three dimensions , in a balanced and integrated way . it is vital that sustainable development is mainstreamed in the european policy framework , and that the union is ambitious in the policies it uses to address global challenges . the council welcomed the commission communication on ‘ next steps for a sustainable european future’ of 22 november 2016 as a first step in mainstreaming the sustainable development goals and applying sustainable development as an essential guiding principle for all union policies , including through its financing instruments . __________________ 16 http : / / eu - un . europa . eu / eu - response - 2030 - agenda - sustainable - development - sustainable - european - future / . 17 https : / / sustainabledevelopment . un . org / post2015 / transformingourworld . ### on 20 june 2017 , the council endorsed the union response16to the ‘ un 2030 agenda for sustainable development’17— a sustainable european future . the council underlined the importance of achieving sustainable development across the three dimensions , in a balanced and integrated way . it is vital that sustainable development is mainstreamed in the european policy framework , and that the union is ambitious in the policies it uses to address global challenges . trade agreements with strong and enforceable trade and sustainable development chapters can be instruments for achieving sustainable development , creating decent jobs and inclusive growth , but also for distributing the benefits of trade more fairly among regions , member states and within societies . the council welcomed the commission communication on ‘ next steps for a sustainable european future’ of 22 november 2016 as a first step in mainstreaming the sustainable development goals and applying sustainable development as an essential guiding principle for all union policies , including through its financing instruments . __________________ 16 http : / / eu - un . europa . eu / eu - response - 2030 - agenda - sustainable - development - sustainable - european - future / . 17 https : / / sustainabledevelopment . un . org / post2015 / transformingourworld .


### in february 2018 , the commission adopted its communication on ‘ a new , modern multiannual financial framework for a european union that delivers efficiently on its priorities post - 2020’18 . the communication stresses that the union budget shall support europe’s unique social market economy . therefore , it will be of utmost importance to improve employment opportunities and to address the skills challenges , especially also those linked to digitisation . budgetary flexibility shall be a key principle in the next multiannual financial framework . flexibility mechanisms shall remain in place to allow the union to react to unforeseen events , and to ensure that budgetary resources are used where most urgently needed . __________________ 18 https : / / ec . europa . eu / commission / sites / beta - political / files / communication - new - modern - multiannual - financial - framework_en . pdf ### in february 2018 , the commission adopted its communication on ‘ a new , modern multiannual financial framework for a european union that delivers efficiently on its priorities post - 2020’18 . the communication stresses that the union budget shall support europe’s unique social market economy . therefore , it will be of utmost importance to improve employment opportunities and to address the skills challenges , especially also those linked to digitisation , automation and the development of new technologies . budgetary flexibility shall be a key principle in the next multiannual financial framework . flexibility mechanisms shall remain in place to allow the union to react to unforeseen events , and to ensure that budgetary resources can be triggered as soon as possible and are used where most urgently needed . __________________ 18 https : / / ec . europa . eu / commission / sites / beta - political / files / communication - new - modern - multiannual - financial - framework_en . pdf


### in its ‘ reflection paper on harnessing globalisation’20 the commission identifies the combination of trade related globalisation and technological change as the major drivers of an increased demand for skilled labour and a reduced number of jobs that require lower qualifications . despite the overall tremendous advantages of more open trade and further integration of world economies , these negative side effects need to be tackled . as the current benefits of globalisation are already unequally distributed among people and regions , causing a significant impact on those adversely affected , there is a danger that the ever faster evolving technological advances will further fuel these effects . therefore , in line with the principles of solidarity and sustainability , it will be necessary to ensure that the benefits of globalisation will be shared more fairly by reconciling economic opening and technological advance with social protection . __________________ 20 https : / / ec . europa . eu / commission / publications / reflection - paper - harnessing - globalisation_en . ### in its ‘ reflection paper on harnessing globalisation’20 the commission identifies the combination of trade related globalisation and technological change as the major drivers of an increased demand for skilled labour and a reduced number of jobs that require lower qualifications . despite the advantages of more open trade and further integration of world economies , these negative side effects need to be tackled . as the current benefits of globalisation are already unequally distributed among people and regions , causing a significant impact on those adversely affected , there is a danger that the ever faster evolving technological advances will further fuel these effects . therefore , in line with the principles of solidarity and sustainability , it will be necessary to ensure that the benefits of globalisation will be distributed more fairly by reconciling economic opening and technological advance with social protection and sustainable development __________________ 20 https : / / ec . europa . eu / commission / publications / reflection - paper - harnessing - globalisation_en .


### globalisation and technological change is likely to further increase the interconnectedness and interdependence of world economies . labour reallocation is an integral and inevitable part of such economic change . if the benefits of change are to be distributed fairly , offering assistance to displaced workers and those threatened by displacement is of utmost importance . the ‘ eu quality framework for anticipation of change and restructuring’22 , is the union policy instrument that sets the framework of best practice for anticipating and dealing with corporate restructuring . it offers a comprehensive framework on how the challenges of economic adjustment and restructuring and their employment and social impact should be addressed by adequate policy means . it also calls upon member states to use eu and national funding in a way to ensure that the social impact of restructuring , especially the adverse effects on employment , can be cushioned more effectively . the main union instruments to assist workers affected are the european social fund plus , which is designed to offer assistance in an anticipatory way , and the egf , which is designed to offer assistance in the case of unexpected major restructuring events in a reactive manner . __________________ 22 communication from the commission to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee and the committee of the regions eu quality framework for anticipation of change and restructuring , 882 final , 13 . 12 . 2013 ) . ### globalisation and technological change is likely to further increase the interconnectedness and interdependence of world economies . labour reallocation is an integral and inevitable part of such economic change . if the benefits of change are to be distributed fairly , offering assistance to displaced workers and those threatened by displacement is of utmost importance . the ‘ eu quality framework for anticipation of change and restructuring’22 , is the union policy instrument that sets the framework of best practice for anticipating and dealing with corporate restructuring . it offers a comprehensive framework on how the challenges of economic adjustment and restructuring and their employment and social impact should be addressed by adequate policy means . it also calls upon member states to use eu and national funding in a way to ensure that the social impact of restructuring , especially the adverse effects on employment , can be cushioned more effectively . the main union instruments to assist workers affected are the european social fund plus , which is designed to offer assistance in an anticipatory way , and the egf , which is designed to offer assistance in the case of major restructuring events in a reactive manner . __________________ 22 communication from the commission to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee and the committee of the regions eu quality framework for anticipation of change and restructuring , 882 final , 13 . 12 . 2013 ) .


### the egf was established by regulation no 1927 / 2006 of the european parliament and of the council23 for the multiannual financial framework from 1 january 2007 to 31 december 2013 . the egf has been set up to enable the union to show solidarity towards workers who lost their jobs as a result of major structural changes in world trade patterns due to globalisation . __________________ 23 regulation no 1927 / 2006 of the european parliament and of the council of 20 december 2006 on establishing the european globalisation adjustment fund . ### the egf was established by regulation no 1927 / 2006 of the european parliament and of the council23 for the multiannual financial framework from 1 january 2007 to 31 december 2013 . the egf has been set up to enable the union to show solidarity towards workers who lost their jobs as a result of major structural changes in world trade patterns due to market opening and globalisation . __________________ 23 regulation no 1927 / 2006 of the european parliament and of the council of 20 december 2006 on establishing the european globalisation adjustment fund .


### the commission carried out a mid - term evaluation of the egf to assess how and to what extent the egf achieves its objectives . the egf proved to be effective , attaining a higher reintegration rate of displaced workers than in the previous programming period . the evaluation also found that the egf generated european added value . this is particularly true in terms of its volume effects , meaning that egf assistance not only increases the number and variety of services offered , but also their level of intensity . moreover , egf interventions have high visibility and demonstrate the eu added value of the intervention directly to the general public however , several challenges were identified . on the one hand , the mobilisation procedure was considered to be too long . furthermore , many member states reported problems putting together the extensive background analysis of the event that triggered the redundancies . the main reason that keeps member states that would have had a potential egf case from applying are financial and institutional capacity problems . on the one hand , it could simply be a lack of manpower – member states currently can ask for technical assistance only if they implement an egf case . since redundancies can happen unexpectedly , it would be important that member states are ready to react immediately and can submit an application without any delays . furthermore , in certain member states , more profound institutional capacity building efforts seem necessary in order to ensure an efficient and effective implementation of egf cases . the threshold of 500 displaced jobs was criticized as being too high , especially in lesser populated regions26 . __________________ 26 com 297 final and accompanying swd 192 final . ### the commission carried out a mid - term evaluation of the egf to assess how and to what extent the egf achieves its objectives . the egf proved to be effective , attaining a higher reintegration rate of displaced workers than in the previous programming period . the evaluation also found that the egf generated european added value . this is particularly true in terms of its volume effects , meaning that egf assistance not only increases the number and variety of services offered , but also their level of intensity . moreover , egf interventions have high visibility and demonstrate the eu added value of the intervention directly to the general public however , several challenges were identified . on the one hand , the mobilisation procedure was considered to be too long , too complicated and too burdensome . furthermore , many member states reported problems putting together the extensive background analysis of the event that triggered the redundancies . the main reason that keeps member states that would have had a potential egf case from applying are financial and institutional capacity problems . on the one hand , it could simply be a lack of manpower – member states currently can ask for technical assistance only if they implement an egf case . since redundancies can happen unexpectedly , it would be important that member states are ready to react immediately and can submit an application without any delays . furthermore , in certain member states , more profound institutional capacity building efforts seem necessary in order to ensure an efficient and effective implementation of egf cases . the threshold of 500 displaced jobs was criticized as being too high , especially in lesser populated regions26 . __________________ 26 com 297 final and accompanying swd 192 final .


### the commission underlines the continuing importance of the role of the egf as a flexible fund to support workers who lose their jobs in large - scale restructuring events and to help them to find another job as rapidly as possible . the union should continue to provide specific , one - off support to facilitate the re - integration into employment of displaced workers in areas , sectors , territories or labour markets suffering a shock of serious economic disruption . considering the interplay and mutual effects of open trade , technological change or other factors like the transition to a low carbon economy , and therefore considering that it is increasingly difficult to single out a specific factor that causes job displacements , the mobilisation of the egf shall in the future only be based on the significant impact of a restructuring event . given its purpose , which is to provide support in situations of urgency and unexpected circumstances , complementing the more anticipatory assistance offered by the esf + , the egf shall remain a flexible and special instrument outside the budgetary ceilings of the multiannual financial framework , as set out in the commission ' s communication . ' a modern budget for a union that protects , empowers and defends - the multiannual financial framework for 2021 – 2027 ' and its annex27 . __________________ 27 commission swd 171 final and its annex com 321 final . ### the commission underlines the continuing importance of the role of the egf as a flexible fund to support workers who lose their jobs in large - scale restructuring events and to help them to find another job as rapidly as possible . the union should continue to provide specific , one - off support to facilitate the re - integration into employment of displaced workers in areas , sectors , territories or labour markets suffering a shock of serious economic disruption . considering the interplay and mutual effects of open trade , technological change , digitisation and automation or other factors like the transition to a low carbon economy , and therefore considering that it is increasingly difficult to single out a specific factor that causes job displacements , the mobilisation of the egf shall in the future only be based on the significant impact of a restructuring event . given its purpose , which is to provide support in situations of urgency and unexpected circumstances , complementing the more anticipatory assistance offered by the esf + , the egf shall remain a flexible and special instrument outside the budgetary ceilings of the multiannual financial framework , as set out in the commission ' s communication . ' a modern budget for a union that protects , empowers and defends - the multiannual financial framework for 2021 – 2027 ' and its annex27 . __________________ 27 commission swd 171 final and its annex com 321 final .


### member states should pay particular attention to disadvantaged beneficiaries , including young and older unemployed persons and those at risk of poverty , when designing the coordinated package of active labour market policy measures , given that those groups experience particular problems in re - entering the labour market . notwithstanding , the principles of gender equality and of non - discrimination , which are among the union’s core values and are enshrined in the european pillar of social rights , should be respected and promoted when implementing the egf . ### member states should pay particular attention to disadvantaged beneficiaries , including young and older unemployed persons , persons with disabilities and those at risk of poverty , when designing the coordinated package of active labour market policy measures , given that those groups experience particular problems in re - entering the labour market . notwithstanding , the principles of gender equality and of non - discrimination , which are among the union’s core values and are enshrined in the european pillar of social rights , should be respected and promoted when implementing the egf .


### in order to support beneficiaries effectively and rapidly , member states should do their utmost to submit complete applications for a financial contribution from the egf . in case the commission requires further information for the assessment of an application , the provision of additional information should be limited in time . ### in order to support beneficiaries effectively and rapidly , member states should do their utmost to submit complete applications for a financial contribution from the egf . in case the commission requires further information for the assessment of an application , the provision of additional information should be limited in time . the commission should also provide technical assistance to member states at the early stages of the procedure before the applications are submitted .


### special provisions should be included for information and communication activities on egf cases and outcomes . ### special provisions should be included for information and communication activities on egf cases and outcomes as adequate knowledge of the application procedure could improve the utilisation of the egf .


### it lays down the objectives of the egf , the forms of union funding and the rules for providing such funding , including applications by the member states for financial contributions from the egf for measures targeting the beneficiaries referred to in article 7 . ### it lays down the objectives of the egf , the forms of union funding and the rules and criteria for providing such funding , including applications by the member states for financial contributions from the egf for measures targeting the beneficiaries referred to in article 7 .


### the egf shall contribute to a better distribution of the benefits of globalisation and technological advance by helping displaced workers adapt to structural change . as such , the egf shall contribute to the implementation of the principles defined under the european pillar of social rights and enhance social and economic cohesion among regions and member states . ### the egf shall contribute to a better and fairer distribution of the benefits of globalisation , and the development of new technologies by helping displaced workers adapt to structural change . as such , the egf shall contribute to the implementation of the principles defined under the european pillar of social rights and enhance equality , social and economic cohesion and inclusion among regions , member states and within societies .


### the specific objective of the egf is to offer assistance in case of unexpected major restructuring events , particularly those caused by globalisation - related challenges , such as changes in world trade patterns , trade disputes , financial or economic crises , the transition to low - carbon economy or as a consequence of digitisation or automation . particular emphasis shall lie on measures that help the most disadvantaged groups . ### the specific objective of the egf is to offer assistance in case of major restructuring events , particularly those caused by globalisation - related challenges , such as changes in world trade patterns , including in intra - eu trade , the opening of markets , offshoring , dumping , trade disputes , financial or economic crises , the transition to low - carbon economy or as a consequence of digitisation or automation . particular emphasis shall lie on measures that help the most disadvantaged groups .


### in small labour markets or in exceptional circumstances , in particular with regard to applications involving smes , where duly substantiated by the applicant member state , an application for a financial contribution under this article may be considered admissible even if the criteria laid down in points , or of paragraph 1 are not entirely met , when the redundancies have a serious impact on employment and the local or regional economy . the applicant member state shall specify which of the intervention criteria set out in points , or of paragraph 1 are not entirely met . the aggregated amount of contributions in exceptional circumstances may not exceed 15 % of the annual ceiling of the egf . ### in small labour markets or in exceptional circumstances , in particular with regard to applications involving smes and start - ups , where duly substantiated by the applicant member state , an application for a financial contribution under this article may be considered admissible even if the criteria laid down in points , of paragraph 1 are not entirely met , when the redundancies have a serious impact on employment and the local or regional economy . the applicant member state shall specify which of the intervention criteria set out in points , or paragraph 1 are not entirely met . the aggregated amount of contributions in exceptional circumstances may not exceed 15 % of the annual ceiling of the egf .


### the dissemination of skills required in the digital industrial age is a mandatory horizontal element of any package of personalised services offered . the level of training shall be adapted to the qualifications and the needs of the respective beneficiary . ### the dissemination of skills required in the digital industrial age shall be part of any package of personalised services offered . the level of training shall be adapted to the qualifications and the needs of the respective beneficiary and the local labour market .


### where additional information is required by the commission , the member state shall reply within ten working days of the date of the request . that deadline shall be extended by the commission by ten working days at the duly justified request of the member state concerned . ### if requested by the member state , the commission shall provide technical assistance at the early stages of the procedure before the applications are submitted . where additional information is required by the commission , the member state shall reply within ten working days of the date of the request . that deadline shall be extended by the commission by ten working days at the duly justified request of the member state concerned .


### the commission’s technical assistance shall include the provision of information and guidance to the member states for using , monitoring and evaluating the egf . the commission shall also provide information along with clear guidance on using the egf to the european and national social partners . guidance measures may also include the creation of taskforces in cases of severe economic disruptions in a member state . ### the commission’s technical assistance shall include the provision of information and guidance to the member states for using , monitoring and evaluating the egf , including the creation of a helpdesk . the commission shall also provide information along with clear guidance on using the egf to the european and national social partners . guidance measures may also include the creation of taskforces in cases of severe economic disruptions in a member state .


### the commission shall maintain and update regularly an online presence , accessible in all official languages of the institutions of the union , to provide updated information on the egf , guidance on the submission of applications , as well as information on accepted and rejected applications and on the role of the european parliament and the council in the budgetary procedure . ### the commission shall maintain and update regularly an online presence , accessible in all official languages of the institutions of the union , to provide updated information on the egf , the criteria to access the fund , guidance on the submission of applications , as well as information on accepted and rejected applications and on the role of the european parliament and the council in the budgetary procedure .


### the member states shall ensure that all communication and visibility material is made available upon request to union institutions , bodies or agencies and that a royalty - free , non - exclusive and irrevocable licence to use such material and any pre - existing rights attached to it is granted to the union . the licence grants the following rights to the union : ### the member states shall ensure that all communication and visibility material is made available upon request to union institutions , bodies or agencies in all official languages and that a royalty - free , non - exclusive and irrevocable licence to use such material and any pre - existing rights attached to it is granted to the union . the licence grants the following rights to the union :


### the co - financing rate of the egf for the measures offered shall be aligned with the highest co - financing rate of the esf + in the respective member state . ### the co - financing rate of the egf for the measures offered shall be aligned with the highest co - financing rate of the esf + in the respective member state , taking into account underdeveloped active labour market institutions of some member states .


### where , on the basis of the assessment carried out in accordance with article 9 , the commission concludes that the conditions for a financial contribution under this regulation are met , it shall immediately initiate the procedure set out in article 16 . ### where , on the basis of the assessment carried out in accordance with article 9 , the commission concludes that the conditions for a financial contribution under this regulation are met , it shall immediately initiate the procedure set out in article 16 and shall notify the applicant member state .


### whether the dismissing enterprise , with the exception of micro enterprises and smes , has been a beneficiary of state aid or previous funding from union cohesion or structural funds in the preceding five years ; ### whether the dismissing enterprise , with the exception of start - ups , micro enterprises and smes , has been a beneficiary of state aid or previous funding from union cohesion or structural funds in the preceding five years ;


### union directives in the area of copyright and related rights provide legal certainty and a high level of protection for rightholders . this harmonised legal framework contributes to the proper functioning of the internal market and stimulates innovation , creation , investment and the production of new content , including in the digital environment . it also aims to promote access to knowledge and culture by protecting works and other subject - matter and by permitting exceptions or limitations that are in the public interest . a fair balance of rights and interests between rightholders and users should be safeguarded . ### union directives in the area of copyright and related rights provide legal certainty and a high level of protection for rightholders . this harmonised legal framework contributes to the proper functioning of the internal market and stimulates innovation , creation , investment , employment and the production of new content , including in the digital environment . it also aims to promote access to knowledge and culture by protecting works and other subject - matter and by permitting exceptions or limitations that are in the public interest . a fair balance of rights and interests between rightholders and users should be safeguarded .


### in the multiannual radio spectrum policy programme established by decision no 243 / 2012 / eu20 , the european parliament and the council set the objectives of identifying at least 1 200 mhz of spectrum suitable for wireless broadband electronic communications services in the union by 2015 , of supporting the further development of innovative audiovisual media services by ensuring sufficient spectrum for the satellite and terrestrial provision of such services , if the need is clearly substantiated , and of ensuring sufficient spectrum for programme making and special events . __________________ 20 decision no 243 / 2012 / eu of the european parliament and of the council of 14 march 2012 establishing a multiannual radio spectrum policy programme . ### in the multiannual radio spectrum policy programme established by decision no 243 / 2012 / eu , the european parliament and the council set the objectives of identifying at least 1&#160 ; 200&#160 ; mhz of spectrum suitable for wireless broadband electronic communications services in the union by 2015 , of supporting the further development of innovative broadcasting by ensuring sufficient spectrum for the satellite and terrestrial provision of such services , if the need is clearly substantiated , and of ensuring sufficient spectrum for programme making and special events . __________________ 20 decision no 243 / 2012 / eu of the european parliament and of the council of 14 march 2012 establishing a multiannual radio spectrum policy programme .


### spectrum in the 470 - 790 mhz frequency band is a valuable asset for the cost - efficient deployment of wireless networks with universal indoor and outdoor coverage . this spectrum is currently used across the union for digital terrestrial television and wireless audio pmse equipment . it supports the development of the media , creative and cultural sectors , which extensively rely on this spectrum resource for the wireless provision of content to mass audiences . ### spectrum in the 470 - 790 mhz frequency band is a valuable asset for the cost - efficient deployment of wireless networks with universal indoor and outdoor coverage . this spectrum is currently used across the union for digital terrestrial television and wireless audio pmse equipment . in member states with still high dtt penetration , it supports the development of the media , creative and cultural sectors , which extensively rely on this spectrum resource for the wireless provision of content to mass audiences . in some member states dtt penetration has been decreasing for several years .


### spectrum in the 470 - 790 mhz frequency band is a valuable asset for the cost - efficient deployment of wireless networks with universal indoor and outdoor coverage . this spectrum is currently used across the union for digital terrestrial television and wireless audio pmse equipment . it supports the development of the media , creative and cultural sectors , which extensively rely on this spectrum resource for the wireless provision of content to mass audiences . ### spectrum is a public good . it is , in the 470 - 790 mhz frequency band , a valuable and public asset , and not only for the cost - efficient deployment of wireless networks with universal indoor and outdoor coverage . this spectrum is currently used across the union for digital terrestrial television and wireless audio pmse equipment . it is thus a prerequisite for access to and dissemination of cultural goods , in particular radio . it supports the development of the media , creative and cultural sectors , which extensively rely on this spectrum resource for the wireless provision of content to mass audiences .


### for region 1 , which includes the union , the international telecommunication union’s radio regulations adopted by the world radiocommunication conference have allocated the 700 mhz frequency band to the broadcasting and the mobile service on a co - primary basis , and the 470 - 694 mhz frequency band exclusively to the broadcasting service , on a primary basis , and to wireless audio pmse use , on a secondary basis . ### for region 1 , which includes the union , the international telecommunication union’s radio regulations adopted by the world radiocommunication conference in 2015 have allocated the 700 mhz frequency band to the broadcasting and the mobile service on a co - primary basis ; the 470 - 694 mhz frequency band remains exclusively allocated to the broadcasting service , on a primary basis , and to wireless audio pmse use , on a secondary basis .


### for region 1 , which includes the union , the international telecommunication union’s radio regulations adopted by the world radiocommunication conference have allocated the 700 mhz frequency band to the broadcasting and the mobile service on a co - primary basis , and the 470 - 694 mhz frequency band exclusively to the broadcasting service , on a primary basis , and to wireless audio pmse use , on a secondary basis . ### for region 1 , which includes the union , the international telecommunication union’s radio regulations adopted in 2015 by the world radiocommunication conference have allocated the 700 mhz frequency band to the broadcasting and the mobile service on a co - primary basis , and the 470 - 694 mhz frequency band exclusively to the broadcasting service , on a primary basis , and to wireless audio pmse use , on a secondary basis .