### in order to ensure compliance with the fiscal surveillance framework of the union for participating member states , a specific enforcement mechanism should be established on the basis of article 136 of the treaty for cases where a persistent and significant deviation from prudent fiscal policy making prevails . ### in order to ensure compliance with the fiscal surveillance framework of the union for participating member states , a specific enforcement mechanism should be established on the basis of article 136 of the treaty for cases where a persistent and significant deviation from efficient fiscal policy making prevails .


### in periods of severe economic downturn of a general nature member states may be allowed to temporarily depart from the adjustment path implied by prudent fiscal - policy making referred to in the fourth subparagraph . ### in periods of severe economic or social downturn member states may be allowed to temporarily depart from the adjustment path implied by fiscal - policy making referred to in the fourth subparagraph .


### when defining the adjustment path to the medium - term budgetary objective for member states that have not yet reached this objective and in allowing a temporary deviation from this objective for member states that have already reached it , under the condition that an appropriate safety margin with respect to the deficit reference value is preserved and that the budgetary position is expected to return to the medium - term budgetary objective within the programme period , the council shall take into account the implementation of major structural reforms which have direct long - term cost - saving effects , including by raising potential growth , and therefore a verifiable impact on the long - term sustainability of public finances . ### when defining the adjustment path to the medium - term budgetary objective for member states that have not yet reached this objective and in allowing a temporary deviation from this objective for member states that have already reached it , under the condition that an appropriate safety margin with respect to the deficit reference value is preserved and that the budgetary position is expected to return to the medium - term budgetary objective within the programme period , the council shall take into account the implementation of structural reforms which are conducive to the achievement of the union’s growth and jobs objectives .


### in periods of severe economic downturn of a general nature member states may be allowed to temporarily depart from the adjustment path implied by prudent fiscal - policy making referred to in the fourth subparagraph . ### in periods of severe economic or social downturn member states may be allowed to temporarily depart from the adjustment path implied by efficient fiscal - policy making referred to in the fourth subparagraph .


### for member states that have achieved the medium - term budgetary objective , annual expenditure growth does not exceed a prudent medium - term rate of gdp growth , unless the excess is matched by discretionary revenue measures ; ### for member states that have achieved the medium - term budgetary objective , if their chosen fiscal policy making complies with the relevant provisions of the tfeu and with this regulation ;


### special attention shall be paid to pension reforms introducing a multi - pillar system that includes a mandatory , fully funded pillar . member states implementing such reforms shall be allowed to deviate from the adjustment path to their medium - term budgetary objective or from the objective itself , with the deviation reflecting the net cost of the reform to the publicly managed pillar , under the condition that the deviation remains temporary and that an appropriate safety margin with respect to the deficit reference value is preserved . ### special attention shall be paid to the contribution of those reforms to job preservation or creation and to the reduction of poverty . member states implementing such reforms shall be allowed to deviate from the adjustment path to their medium - term budgetary objective or from the objective itself .


### based on assessments by the commission and the economic and financial committee , the council shall , within the framework of multilateral surveillance under article 121 of the treaty , examine the medium - term budgetary objectives presented by the member states concerned , assess whether the economic assumptions on which the programme is based are plausible , whether the adjustment path towards the medium - term budgetary objective is appropriate and whether the measures being taken and / or proposed to respect that adjustment path are sufficient to achieve the medium - term budgetary objective over the cycle and to achieve sustained convergence . ### based on assessments by the commission , the economic and financial committee , the employment committee and the social protection committee , the council shall , within the framework of multilateral surveillance under article 121 tfeu and of the examination of the implementation of the employment policies in accordance with article 148 tfeu , examine the medium - term budgetary objectives presented by the member states concerned , assess whether the economic assumptions on which the programme is based are plausible , whether the adjustment path towards the medium - term budgetary objective is appropriate and whether the measures being taken and / or proposed to respect that adjustment path are sufficient to achieve the medium - term budgetary objective over the cycle and to achieve sustained convergence .


### services concessions the value of which is equal to or greater than eur 2 500 000 but lower than eur 5 000 000 other than social services and other specific services shall be subject to the obligation to publish a concession award notice in accordance with articles 27 and 28 . ### services concessions lasting for up to five years the value of which is equal to or greater than eur 2 500 000 but lower than eur 5 000 000 other than social services and other specific services shall be subject to the obligation to publish a concession award notice in accordance with articles 27 and 28 . services concessions lasting more than five years , the value of which is equal to or greater than eur 5 000 000 but lower than eur 10 000 000 , other than social services and other specific services , shall be subject to the obligation to publish a concession award notice in accordance with articles 27 and 28 .


### this directive shall apply to the following concessions the value of which is equal to or greater than eur 5 000 000 : ### this directive shall apply to the following concessions the value of which is equal to or greater than eur 5 000 000 for concessions lasting up to five years :


### species included on the list referred to in article 4 shall not be intentionally : brought into or transited through the union territory ; permitted to reproduce ; transported , except for the transportation of species to facilities for eradication ; placed on the market ; used or exchanged ; kept or grown , including in contained holding ; released into the environment . ### for species included on the list referred to in article 4 , it shall be prohibited : to bring or convey them through the union territory ; to permit them to reproduce ; to transport them , except for the transportation of species to facilities for eradication ; to place them on the market ; to use or exchange them ; to keep or grow them , including in contained holding ; to release them into the environment .


### by [ 18 months from the date of entry into force of this regulation &#8211 ; date to be inserted ] at the latest , member states shall have an official surveillance system in place which collects and records data on the occurrence in the environment of invasive alien species by survey , monitoring or other procedures to prevent the spread of invasive alien species into the union . ### within 18 months from the adoption of the list referred to in article 4 , member states shall have an official surveillance system in place which collects and records data on the occurrence in the environment of invasive alien species by survey , monitoring or other procedures to prevent the spread of invasive alien species into the union .


### a list of invasive alien species of union concern shall be adopted , and updated , by the commission by means of implementing acts on the basis of the criteria in paragraph 2 . the implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 22 . ### the commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 23 to establish a list of invasive alien species of union concern on the basis of the criteria laid down in paragraph 2 . the list shall take the form of an annex to this regulation .


### member states shall , by [ 18 months from the entry into force of this regulation &#8211 ; date to be inserted ] at the latest carry out a comprehensive analysis of the pathways of unintentional introduction and spread of invasive alien species in their territory and identify the pathways which require priority action , because of the volume of species or of the damage caused by the species entering the union through them . in doing so , member states shall in particular focus on an analysis of the pathways of introduction of invasive alien species of union concern . ### member states shall , within two years from the adoption of the list referred to in article 4 carry out a comprehensive analysis of the pathways of unintentional introduction and spread of invasive alien species of union concern in their territory and identify the pathways which require priority action , because of the volume of species or of the damage caused by the species entering the union through them .


### species included on the list referred to in article 4 shall not be intentionally : ### invasive alien species of union concern shall not be intentionally or negligently :


### ' alien species ' means any live specimens of species , subspecies or lower taxon of animals , plants , fungi or micro - organisms introduced outside its natural past or present distribution ; it includes any part , gametes , seeds , eggs , or propagules of such species , as well as any hybrids , varieties or breeds that might survive and subsequently reproduce ; ### ' alien species ' means any live specimens of species , subspecies or lower taxon of animals , plants , fungi or micro - organisms introduced outside its natural past or present distribution ; it includes any part or developmental stages , gametes , seeds , eggs , or propagules of such species , as well as any feral domestic species , hybrids , varieties , or breeds that might survive and subsequently reproduce ;


### by [ 12 months from the date of entry into force of this regulation &#8211 ; date to be inserted ] at the latest , member states shall have in place fully functioning structures to perform the official controls on animals and plants including their seeds , eggs , or propagules , brought into the union , necessary to prevent the intentional introduction into the union of invasive alien species of union concern . ### within 12 months from the adoption of the list referred to in article 4 at the latest , member states shall have in place fully functioning structures to perform the official controls on animals and plants including their seeds , eggs , developmental stages or propagules , brought into the union , necessary to prevent the intentional introduction into the union of invasive alien species of union concern .


### the permit referred to in paragraph 1 shall be limited to the number of species and specimens that is necessary for the research or ex - situ conservation concerned and shall not exceed the capacity of the closed facility . it shall include the restrictions necessary to mitigate the risk of escape or spread of the species concerned . it shall accompany the invasive alien species to which it refers at all times when these are kept , brought into and transported within the union . ### the permit referred to in paragraph 1 shall be limited to the capacity of the closed facility . it shall include the restrictions necessary to mitigate the risk of escape or spread of the species concerned . it shall accompany the invasive alien species to which it refers at all times when these are kept , brought into and transported within the union .


### their removal from the facilities or disposal or destruction is done in such way as to exclude propagation or reproduction outside of the facilities . ### their removal from the facilities is done in such way as to exclude propagation or reproduction outside of the facilities .


### in case of invasive alien species that are animals , they are marked where possible ; ### in the case of invasive alien species of union concern that are animals , they are marked where possible ;


### a system to address invasive alien species should be underpinned by a centralised information system collating the existing information on alien species in the union and allowing access to information on presence of species , their spread , their ecology , invasion history and all other information necessary to underpin policy and management decisions . ### a system to address invasive alien species should be underpinned by a centralised information system collating the existing information on alien species in the union and allowing access to information on presence of species , their spread , their ecology , invasion history and all other information necessary to underpin policy and management decisions . in the development of the centralised information system , the commission should be able to rely on the european environment agency , where duly justified by the nature of the action and specific expertise of the agency . where the commission does so , it should take due account of the impact on the agency ' s governance structure and on its financial and human resources .


### the criteria to list invasive alien species considered to be of union concern is the core instrument to apply these new rules . the commission will do its utmost to submit a proposal for a list based on those criteria within one year of the entry into force of this legislation to the committee . the criteria should include a risk assessment pursuant to the applicable provisions under the agreements of the world trade organisation on placing trade restriction on species . ### the criteria to list invasive alien species considered to be of union concern is the core instrument to apply these new rules . the commission should therefore adopt the first list based on those criteria within 18 months of the entry into force of this regulation . the criteria should include a risk assessment pursuant to the applicable provisions under the agreements of the world trade organisation on placing trade restriction on species .


### public participation ### public participation and stakeholder involvement and exchange of information


### a quantified forecast of the damage costs at union level demonstrating the significance for the union , so as to further justify action because the overall damage would outweigh the cost of mitigation ; ### a quantified assessment of the potential costs of damage at union level demonstrating the significance for the union ;


### council regulation no 708 / 2007 of 11 june 2007 concerning use of alien and locally absent species in aquaculture14 , regulation no 528 / 2012 of the european parliament and of the council of 22 may 2012 concerning the making available on the market and use of biocidal products15 and regulation no 1107 / 2009 of the european parliament and of the council of 21 october 2009 concerning the placing of plant protection products on the market and repealing council directives 79 / 117 / eec and 91 / 414 / eec16 provide for rules concerning the authorisation for the use of certain alien species for particular purposes . the use of certain species has already been authorised under those regimes at the time of entry into force of these new rules as they do not pose unacceptable risks to the environment , human health and the economy . in order to ensure a coherent legal framework , those species should thus be excluded from the new rules . __________________ 14 oj l 168 , 28 . 6 . 2007 , p . 1 . 15 oj l 167 , 27 . 6 . 2012 , p . 1 . 16 oj l 309 , 24 . 11 . 2009 , p . 1 . ### regulation no 528 / 2012 of the european parliament and of the council of 22 may 2012 concerning the making available on the market and use of biocidal products15 and regulation no 1107 / 2009 of the european parliament and of the council of 21 october 2009 concerning the placing of plant protection products on the market and repealing council directives 79 / 117 / eec and 91 / 414 / eec16 provide for rules concerning the authorisation for the use of certain alien species for particular purposes . the use of certain species has already been authorised under those regimes at the time of entry into force of these new rules as they do not pose unacceptable risks to the environment , human health and the economy . in order to ensure a coherent legal framework , those species should thus be excluded from the new rules . __________________ 14 oj l 168 , 28 . 6 . 2007 , p . 1 . 15 oj l 167 , 27 . 6 . 2012 , p . 1 . 16 oj l 309 , 24 . 11 . 2009 , p . 1 .


### to support the achievement of the objectives of directive 2009 / 147 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 30 november 2009 on the conservation of wild birds7 , council directive 92 / 43 / eec of 21 may 1992 on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora8 , directive 2008 / 56 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 17 june 2008 establishing a framework for community action in the field of marine environmental policy 9 and directive 2000 / 60 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 23 october 2000 establishing a framework for community action in the field of water policy10 , the primary objective of this regulation should be to prevent , minimise and mitigate the adverse effects of invasive alien species on biodiversity and ecosystem services , as well as to reduce their economic and social impact . __________________ 7 oj l 20 , 26 . 1 . 2010 , p . 7 . 8 oj l 206 , 22 . 7 . 1992 , p . 7 . 9 oj l 164 , 25 . 6 . 2008 , p . 19 . 10 oj l 327 , 22 . 12 . 2000 , p . 1 . ### to support the achievement of the objectives of directive 2009 / 147 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 30 november 2009 on the conservation of wild birds7 , council directive 92 / 43 / eec of 21 may 1992 on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora8 , directive 2008 / 56 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 17 june 2008 establishing a framework for community action in the field of marine environmental policy 9 and directive 2000 / 60 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 23 october 2000 establishing a framework for community action in the field of water policy10 , the primary objective of this regulation should be to prevent , minimise and mitigate the adverse effects of invasive alien species on biodiversity , ecosystem services , safety and public health as well as to reduce their economic and social impact . __________________ 7 oj l 20 , 26 . 1 . 2010 , p . 7 . 8 oj l 206 , 22 . 7 . 1992 , p . 7 . 9 oj l 164 , 25 . 6 . 2008 , p . 19 . 10 oj l 327 , 22 . 12 . 2000 , p . 1 .


### by way of derogation from the bans set out in points , , , and of article 7 , member states shall establish a permit system allowing establishments that are authorised to carry out research or ex - situ conservation to perform such activities on invasive alien species of union concern . ### by way of derogation from the restrictions set out in article 7 , points , , , , and , member states shall establish a permit system allowing establishments that are authorised to carry out research or ex - situ conservation on invasive alien species of union concern . activities involving farming of animal species shall also be allowed provided that they are covered by directive 1998 / 58 / eec and article 11 of directive 2009 / 147 / ec .


### member states should be able to adopt more stringent measures to tackle invasive alien species and to take measures proactively in respect of any species that are not listed as invasive alien species of union concern . in order to adopt a more proactive stance on unlisted species , it should therefore be required that to release invasive alien species into the environment that are not listed as invasive alien species of union concern , but for which member states have found evidence that they pose a risk , an authorisation for release should be issued . detailed rules for the authorisation of alien species to be used in aquaculture have already been established by regulation no 708 / 2007 and should be taken into account by member states in this context . ### member states should be able to take measures , such as regulation of trade , use , transport and release into the wild , proactively in respect of any species that are not listed as invasive alien species of union concern . in order to adopt a more proactive stance on unlisted species , it should therefore be required that to release invasive alien species into the environment that are not listed as invasive alien species of union concern , but for which member states have found evidence that they pose a risk , an authorisation for release should be issued . detailed rules for the authorisation of alien species to be used in aquaculture have already been established by regulation no 708 / 2007 and should be taken into account by member states in this context .


### they are physically isolated and they cannot escape or spread or be removed from the facilities were they are kept by unauthorised persons ; cleaning and maintenance protocols shall ensure that no specimens or reproducible parts can escape , spread or be removed by unauthorised persons ; ### they are physically isolated and they cannot escape or spread or be removed from the facilities were they are kept by unauthorised persons ; cleaning , waste handling and maintenance protocols shall ensure that no specimens or reproducible parts can escape , spread or be removed by unauthorised persons ;


### by way of derogation from the bans set out in points , , , and of article 7 , member states shall establish a permit system allowing establishments that are authorised to carry out research or ex - situ conservation to perform such activities on invasive alien species of union concern . ### by way of derogation from the restrictions set out in article 7 , points , , , , and , member states shall establish a permit system regarding activities on invasive alien species of union concern . activities involving farming of animal species shall also be allowed provided that they are covered by directive 1998 / 58 / ec and without prejudice to point of article 22 of directive 92 / 43 / eec and article 11 of directive 2009 / 147 / ec . in exceptional cases of undeniable contribution to human health , if there is no other option than the use of invasive alien species of union concern , member states can also permit their medicinal use .


### by [ 3 years from the entry into force of this regulation - date to be inserted ] at the latest , each member state shall establish and implement an action plan to address the priority pathways it has identified pursuant to paragraph 1 . that action plan shall include a timetable for action and shall describe the measures to be adopted to address the priority pathways and to prevent the unintentional introduction and spread of invasive alien species into the union and into or within the environment . ### within three years from the adoption of the list referred to in article 4 , each member state shall establish and implement an action plan to address the priority pathways it has identified pursuant to paragraph 1 . that action plan shall include a timetable for action and shall describe the measures to be adopted to address the priority pathways and to prevent the unintentional introduction and spread of invasive alien species into the union and into or within the environment .


### they are , having regard to scientific evidence available , found to be alien to the territory of the union excluding the outermost regions ; ### they are , having regard to scientific evidence available , found to be invasive species alien to one or more member states , excluding the outermost regions ;


### in order to enable commercial operators , who may have legitimate expectations , for instance those who have received an authorisation in accordance with regulation no . 708 / 2007 , to exhaust their stock of invasive alien species of union concern when these new rules enter into force , it is justified to allow them two years to slaughter , sell or hand over the specimens to research or ex - situ conservation establishments . ### in order to enable commercial operators , who may have legitimate expectations , for instance those who have received an authorisation in accordance with regulation no . 708 / 2007 , to exhaust their stock of invasive alien species of union concern when these new rules enter into force , it is justified to allow them two years to humanely cull , sell or , where relevant , hand over the specimens to research or ex - situ conservation establishments .


### a description of the negative impact on biodiversity and ecosystem services , including on native species , protected sites , endangered habitats , on human health and the economy including an assessment of the magnitude of future impact ; ### a description of the negative impact on biodiversity and ecosystem services , including on native species , protected sites , endangered habitats , on the economy , public health and safety including an assessment of the magnitude of future impact ;


### measures ensuring the prevention of reinvasion following an eradication campaign . ### measures to support the prevention of reinvasion following an eradication campaign .


### measures to increase the ability of an ecosystem exposed to disturbance to resist , absorb , accommodate to and recover from the effects of disturbance ; ### measures to increase the capacity of an ecosystem exposed to disturbance to resist , absorb , accommodate to and recover from the effects of disturbance ;


### ‘ population control’ means physical , chemical or biological actions applied to a population of invasive alien species with the aim of keeping the number of individuals as low as possible , so that , while not being able to eradicate the species , its invasive capacity and adverse impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem services , or on human health and the economy , are minimised . ### ‘ population control’ means lethal or non - lethal physical , chemical or biological actions applied to a population of invasive alien species , while also avoiding impact on non - targeted species and their habitats , with the aim of keeping the number of individuals as low as possible , so that , while not being able to eradicate the species , its invasive capacity and adverse impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem services , or on human health and the economy , are minimised .


### in a third phase , the data support mechanism referred to in paragraph 2 shall become a mechanism for exchanging information on other aspects of the application of this regulation . ### the information support system referred to in paragraph 1 shall include a mechanism for exchanging information on other aspects of the application of this regulation , especially with regards to the early detection and rapid eradication of invasive alien species .


### member states shall take proportionate restoration measures to assist the recovery of an ecosystem that has been degraded , damaged , or destroyed by invasive alien species of union concern . ### member states shall take proportionate restoration measures to assist the recovery of an ecosystem that has been degraded , damaged , or destroyed by invasive alien species of union concern , unless a cost - benefit analysis demonstrates , on the basis of the available data and with reasonable certainty , that the costs will be exceptionally high and disproportionate to the benefits of restoration .


### restrictions on the intentional release of invasive alien species of member state concern ### restrictions on invasive alien species of member state concern


### member states shall inform the commission and the other member states of the species it considers as invasive alien species of member state concern . ### member states shall inform the commission and the other member states of the species they consider as invasive alien species of member state concern and of the restrictions set out in accordance with paragraph 1 .


### by 12 months of an invasive alien species being included on the list referred to in article 4 at the latest , member states shall have in place management measures for those invasive alien species of union concern which the member states have found to be widely spread on their territory , so that their impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem services , human health and the economy are minimised . those management measures shall be based on an analysis of costs and benefits and also include the restoration measures referred to in article 18 . ### by 12 months of an invasive alien species being included on the list referred to in article 4 at the latest , member states shall have in place management measures for those invasive alien species of union concern which the member states have found to be widely spread on their territory , so that their impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem services , human health and the economy are minimised . those management measures shall be based on an analysis of costs and benefits , taking into account the impact on the environment and also include the restoration measures referred to in article 18 .


### ‘ invasive alien species’ means an alien species whose introduction or spread has been found , through risk assessment , to threaten biodiversity and ecosystem services , and that may also have a negative impact on human health or the economy ; ### ‘ invasive alien species’ means an alien species whose introduction and spread has been found , through risk assessment , to threaten biodiversity and ecosystem services , and that may also have a negative impact on human health or the economy ;


### a description of the current distribution of the species including whether the species is already present in the union or in neighbouring countries ; ### a description of the current distribution of the species including whether the species is already present in the union as a native or alien species or in neighbouring countries ;


### member states shall , by [ 18 months from the entry into force of this regulation &#8211 ; date to be inserted ] at the latest carry out a comprehensive analysis of the pathways of unintentional introduction and spread of invasive alien species in their territory and identify the pathways which require priority action , because of the volume of species or of the damage caused by the species entering the union through them . in doing so , member states shall in particular focus on an analysis of the pathways of introduction of invasive alien species of union concern . ### member states shall , within two years from the adoption of the list referred to in article 4 carry out a comprehensive analysis of the pathways of unintentional introduction and spread of invasive alien species of union concern in their territory and identify the pathways which require priority action , because of the volume of species or of the damage caused by the species entering the union through them .


### by way of derogation from to article 7 and , owners of companion animals not kept for commercial purposes that belong to the species included on the list referred to in article 4 shall be allowed to keep them until the end of the animals ' natural life , provided the following conditions are met : ### by way of derogation from to article 7 and , owners of pet animals not kept for commercial purposes that belong to the species included on the list referred to in article 4 shall be allowed to keep them until the end of the animals ' natural life , provided the following conditions are met :


### in case of invasive alien species that are animals , they are marked where possible ; ### in the case of invasive alien species of union concern that are animals , they are marked where possible ;


### by [ 3 years from the entry into force of this regulation - date to be inserted ] at the latest , each member state shall establish and implement an action plan to address the priority pathways it has identified pursuant to paragraph 1 . that action plan shall include a timetable for action and shall describe the measures to be adopted to address the priority pathways and to prevent the unintentional introduction and spread of invasive alien species into the union and into or within the environment . ### within three years from the adoption of the list referred to in article 4 , each member state shall establish and implement an action plan to address the priority pathways it has identified pursuant to paragraph 1 . that action plan shall include a timetable for action and shall describe the measures to be adopted to address the priority pathways and to prevent the unintentional introduction and spread of invasive alien species into the union and into or within the environment .


### the commission shall , where appropriate , adapt the timetable for each period so as to ensure an orderly functioning of the market . ### the commission may , in exceptional circumstances , adapt the timetable for the period referred to in article 13 beginning on 1 january 2013 so as to ensure an orderly functioning of the market . the commission shall make no more than one such adaptation .


### developing environment - friendly and low - carbon transport systems including promoting sustainable urban mobility ; ### developing and improving environment - friendly and low - carbon transport systems including inland waterways and maritime transport , ports , multimodal links and airport infrastructure , in order to promote sustainable regional and local mobility ;


### improving the urban environment , including regeneration of brownfield sites and reduction of air pollution ; ### action to improve the urban environment , revitalisation of cities , regeneration and decontamination of brownfield sites , reduction of air pollution and promotion of noise - reduction measures ;


### a common set of indicators to assess progress of programme implementation should be set out before the member states draft their operational programmes . these indicators should be complemented by programme - specific indicators . ### a common set of output indicators to assess the aggregated progress at union level of implementation of programmes should be set out in this regulation . these should correspond to the investment priority and type of action supported in accordance with this regulation and the relevant provisions of regulation no [ . . . ] / 2013 [ cpr ] . these indicators should be complemented by programme - specific result indicators and , where relevant , by programme - specific output indicators .


### promoting low - carbon strategies for urban areas ; ### promoting low - carbon strategies for all types of territories , in particular for urban areas , including the promotion of sustainable multi - modal urban mobility and mitigation relevant adaptation measures ;


### a common set of indicators to assess progress of programme implementation should be set out before the member states draft their operational programmes . these indicators should be complemented by programme - specific indicators . ### in order to assess progress of programme implementation , implementing powers should be conferred on the commission in respect of a common set of indicators . those powers should be exercised in accordance with regulation no 182 / 2011 of the european parliament and of the council of 16 february 2011 laying down the rules and general principles concerning mechanisms for control , by member states , of the commission’s exercise of implementing powers1 . common indicators should be complemented by programme - specific indicators . _________________ 1 oj l 55 , 28 . 2 . 2011 , p . 13 .


### supporting dedicated investment for adaptation to climate change ; ### supporting investment for adaptation to climate change including eco - system based approaches ;


### promoting energy efficiency and renewable energy use in small and medium - sized enterprises ; ### promoting energy efficiency and renewable energy use in enterprises ;


### in accordance with article 16 of regulation no [ … ] / 2012 [ cpr ] , the cohesion fund shall support the following investment priorities within the thematic objectives set out in article 9 of regulation no [ … ] / 2012 [ cpr ] : ### in accordance with article 16 of regulation no [ … ] / 2013 [ cpr ] , the cohesion fund shall support the following investment priorities within the thematic objectives set out in article 9 of regulation no [ … ] / 2013 [ cpr ] in accordance with needs and potentials described in the partnership agreement referred to in article 14 of that regulation :


### developing comprehensive , high quality and interoperable railway systems ; ### developing and rehabilitating comprehensive , high quality and interoperable railway systems , and promoting noise - reduction measures ;


### common indicators , as set out in the annex to this regulation , shall be used where relevant and in accordance with article 24 of regulation no [ &#8230 ; ] / 2012 [ cpr ] . for common indicators , baselines shall be set at zero and cumulative targets shall be set for 2022 . 2 . for programme - specific output indicators , baselines shall be set at zero and cumulative targets shall be fixed for 2022 . 3 . for programme - specific result indicators , baselines shall use the latest available data and targets shall be fixed for 2022 , but may be expressed in quantitative or qualitative terms . ### common output indicators , as set out in the annex to this regulation , programme - specific result indicators and , where relevant , programme - specific output indicators shall be used in accordance with article 24 and article 87 and of regulation no [ &#8230 ; ] / 2013 [ cpr ] . 2 . for common and programme - specific output indicators , baselines shall be set at zero . cumulative quantified target values for these indicators shall be fixed for 2022 . 3 . for programme - specific result indicators , which relate to investment priorities , baselines shall use the latest available data and targets shall be fixed for 2022 . targets may be expressed in quantitative or qualitative terms . 3a . the commission shall be empowered to adopt a delegated act in accordance with article 5a to amend the list of common output indicators in the annex to this regulation , in order to make adjustments , where justified to ensure effective assessment of progress in programme implementation .


### the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in installations falling under directive 2003 / 87 / ec ; ### investment to achieve the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from activities falling under annex i of directive 2003 / 87 / ec ;


### supporting the shift towards a low - carbon economy in all sectors by : ### supporting the shift towards a low - carbon economy in all sectors through :


### promoting sustainable transport and removing bottlenecks in key network infrastructures , by : ### promoting sustainable transport and removing bottlenecks in key network infrastructures , through :


### housing . ### housing except for promoting energy efficiency and renewable energy use ;


### supporting energy efficiency and renewable energy use in public infrastructures ; ### supporting energy efficiency , smart energy management and renewable energy use in public infrastructures , including in public buildings , and in the housing sector ;


### protecting and restoring biodiversity , including through green infrastructures ; ### protecting and restoring biodiversity , soil protection and restoration and promoting ecosystem services including through natura 2000 and green infrastructures ;


### protecting the environment and promoting resource efficiency by : ### protecting the environment and promoting resource efficiency through :


### developing smart distribution systems at low voltage levels ; ### developing and implementing smart distribution systems at low and medium voltage levels ;


### in order to address the specific needs of the cohesion fund , and in line with the europe 2020 strategy that cohesion policy should support the need to deliver smart , sustainable and inclusive growth , it is necessary to set out investment priorities within the scope of the thematic objectives laid down in regulation no [ … ] / 2012 [ cpr ] . ### in order to address the specific needs of the cohesion fund , and in line with the europe 2020 strategy that cohesion policy should support the need to deliver smart , sustainable and inclusive growth , it is necessary to set out investment priorities within the scope of the thematic objectives laid down in regulation no [ … ] / 2013 [ cpr ] . these investment priorities should set out detailed objectives , which are not mutually exclusive , to which the cohesion fund shall contribute . these investment priorities should form the basis for the definition of specific objectives within operational programmes that take into account the needs and characteristics of the programme area . in order to increase flexibility and reduce administrative burden by allowing joint implementation , the erdf and the cohesion fund investment priorities under the corresponding thematic objectives should be aligned .


### protecting the environment and promoting resource efficiency by : ### preserving and protecting the environment and promoting resource efficiency by :


### in accordance with article 16 of regulation no [ … ] / 2012 [ cpr ] , the cohesion fund shall support the following investment priorities within the thematic objectives set out in article 9 of regulation no [ … ] / 2012 [ cpr ] : ### in accordance with article 16 of regulation no [ . . . ] / 2013 [ cpr ] , the cohesion fund shall support the following investment priorities within the thematic objectives set out in article 9 of regulation no [ . . . ] / 2013 [ cpr ] taking into account the needs and potentials described in the partnership agreement referred to in article 14 of that regulation :


### improving the urban environment , including regeneration of brownfield sites and reduction of air pollution ; ### action to improve the urban environment , revitalisation of cities , regeneration and decontamination of brownfield sites , reduction of air pollution and promotion of noise - reduction measures ;


### article 174 of the treaty provides that the union should develop and pursue its actions leading to the strengthening of its economic , social and territorial cohesion . the cohesion fund should therefore provide a financial contribution to projects in the field of the environment and to trans - european networks in the area of transport infrastructure . ### article 174 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union provides that the union is to develop and pursue its actions leading to the strengthening of its economic , social and territorial cohesion . the cohesion fund should therefore provide a financial contribution to projects in the field of the environment and to trans - european networks in the area of transport infrastructure .


### the decommissioning of nuclear power stations ; ### the decommissioning and the construction of nuclear power stations ;


### promoting the production and distribution of renewable energy sources ; ### promoting the production and distribution of energy derived from renewable sources ;


### in order to address the specific needs of the cohesion fund , and in line with the europe 2020 strategy that cohesion policy should support the need to deliver smart , sustainable and inclusive growth , it is necessary to set out investment priorities within the scope of the thematic objectives laid down in regulation no [ … ] / 2012 [ cpr ] . ### in order to address the specific needs of the cohesion fund , and in line with the europe 2020 strategy that cohesion policy should support the need to deliver smart , sustainable and inclusive growth , it is necessary to set out investment priorities within the scope of the thematic objectives laid down in regulation no [ … ] / 2013 [ cpr ] . these investment priorities should set out detailed objectives , which are not mutually exclusive , to which the cohesion fund shall contribute . furthermore , these investment priorities should form the basis for the definition of specific objectives within operational programmes that take into account the needs and characteristics of the programme area .


### common indicators , as set out in the annex to this regulation , shall be used where relevant and in accordance with article 24 of regulation no [ &#8230 ; ] / 2012 [ cpr ] . for common indicators , baselines shall be set at zero and cumulative targets shall be set for 2022 . 2 . for programme - specific output indicators , baselines shall be set at zero and cumulative targets shall be fixed for 2022 . 3 . for programme - specific result indicators , baselines shall use the latest available data and targets shall be fixed for 2022 , but may be expressed in quantitative or qualitative terms . ### common output indicators , as set out in the annex to this regulation , programme - specific result indicators and , where relevant , programme - specific output indicators shall be used in accordance with article 24 and article 87 and of regulation no [ &#8230 ; ] / 2013 [ cpr ] . 2 . for common and programme - specific output indicators , baselines shall be set at zero . cumulative quantified target values for these indicators shall be fixed for 2022 . 3 . for programme - specific result indicators , which relate to investment priorities , baselines shall use the latest available data and targets shall be fixed for 2022 . targets may be expressed in quantitative or qualitative terms . 3a . the commission shall be empowered to adopt a delegated act in accordance with article 5a to amend the list of common output indicators in the annex to this regulation , in order to make adjustments , where justified to ensure effective assessment of progress in programme implementation .


### the power to adopt delegated acts referred to in article 10 shall be conferred on the commission for an indeterminate period of time from the date of adoption of this regulation . ### the power to adopt delegated acts referred to in article 10 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 on the delegation of power no 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 power to adopt delegated acts referred to in article 10 shall be conferred on the commission for an indeterminate period of time from the date of adoption of this regulation . ### the power to adopt delegated acts referred to in article 10 shall be conferred on the commission for a period of five years from the date of entry into force . the commission shall draw up a report on the delegation of power no 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 .


### a delegated act adopted pursuant to article 10 shall enter into force only if no objection has been expressed either by the european parliament or 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 one month at the initiative of the european parliament or of the council . ### a delegated act adopted pursuant to article 10 shall enter into force only if no objection has been expressed either by the european parliament or 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 power to adopt delegated acts referred to in article 10 shall be conferred on the commission for an indeterminate period of time from the date of adoption of this regulation . ### the power to adopt delegated acts referred to in article 10 shall be conferred on the commission for an indeterminate period of time from the date of entry into force of this regulation .


### in the application for type - approval , the manufacturer shall provide a statement , established in accordance with the model set out in appendix 1 of annex viii , that the vehicle type to be approved complies with the requirements of article 8 and 8 . ### in the application for type - approval , the manufacturer shall provide a statement , supported by the outcome of appropriate test results established in accordance with the model set out in appendix 1 of annex viii , that the vehicle type to be approved complies with the requirements of article 8


### where manufacturers choose to install an avas in vehicles , the requirements of annex x shall be fulfilled . ### where manufacturers choose to install an avas in vehicles , the requirements of annex ix shall be fulfilled .


### this regulation should also further reduce noise limits . it should take account of regulation no 661 / 2009 of the european parliament and of the council of 13 july 2009 concerning type - approval requirements for the general safety of motor vehicles , their trailers and systems , components and separate technical units intended therefor , which introduced new stricter noise requirements for motor vehicle tyres . studies highlighting the annoyance and health effects from road traffic noise , and the associated costs and benefits should also be heeded . ### this regulation should also further reduce noise limits . it should take account of regulation no 661 / 2009 of the european parliament and of the council of 13 july 2009 concerning type - approval requirements for the general safety of motor vehicles , their trailers and systems , components and separate technical units intended therefor , which introduced new stricter noise requirements for motor vehicle tyres and which underlined the need for a coherent and comprehensive approach to address the problem of road noise , including taking into account the significant contribution of road surfaces to road noise . studies highlighting the annoyance and health effects from road traffic noise , and the associated costs and benefits should also be heeded . this regulation should also take account of regulation no 1222 / 2009 of the european parliament and of the council of 25 november 2009 on the labelling of tyres with respect to fuel efficiency and other essential parameters1 . the commission should ensure that tyres are labelled with respect to their noise performance .


### prior to initiating the collection of statements of support from signatories , the organiser shall ensure that the online collection system used for that purpose complies with the provisions of paragraph 4 . the organiser may , at any time , ask the relevant competent authority of the member state in which the data collected is or will be stored , to certify that the online collection system complies with those provisions . the organiser shall , in any case , request that certification prior to submitting statements of support for verification in accordance with article 9 . ### prior to initiating the collection of statements of support from signatories , the organisers shall ensure that the online collection system used for that purpose complies with the provisions of paragraph 4 . the organisers may , at any time , ask the relevant competent authority of the member state in which the data collected is or will be stored , to certify that the online collection system complies with those provisions . the organisers shall , in any case , request that certification prior to starting the collection of statements of support . the organiser shall make a copy of the certificate issued in that regard publicly available on the website used for the online collection system . within six months following the entry into force of this regulation , the commission shall make available an open - source software incorporating some of the technical and security features necessary for compliance with the provisions of this regulation regarding the online collection systems . the software shall be freely made available to organisers .


### ' organiser ' means a natural or legal person or organisation responsible for the preparation and submission of a citizens’ initiative to the commission . ### ' organisers ' means natural persons forming a citizens ' committee responsible for the preparation and submission of a citizens’ initiative to the commission .


### directive 95 / 46 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 24 october 1995 on the protection of individuals with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data is fully applicable to the processing of personal data carried out in application of this regulation . in this respect , it is appropriate to clarify that the organiser of a citizens ' initiative and the competent authorities of the member states are the data controllers within the meaning of directive 95 / 46 / ec and to specify the maximum period within which the personal data collected for the purposes of a citizens ' initiative may be retained . in their capacity as data controllers , organisers need to take all the appropriate measures to comply with the obligations imposed by directive 95 / 46 / ec , in particular those relating to the lawfulness of the processing , the security of the processing activities and the provision of information and the rights of data subject to access to his / her personal data as well as the correction and erasure of his / her personal data . ### directive 95 / 46 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 24 october 1995 on the protection of individuals with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data is fully applicable to the processing of personal data carried out in application of this regulation . in this respect , for the sake of legal certainty , it is appropriate to clarify that the organisers of a citizens ' initiative and the competent authorities of the member states are the data controllers within the meaning of directive 95 / 46 / ec and to specify the maximum period within which the personal data collected for the purposes of a citizens ' initiative may be retained . in their capacity as data controllers , organisers need to take all the appropriate measures to comply with the obligations imposed by directive 95 / 46 / ec , in particular those relating to the lawfulness of the processing , the security of the processing activities and the provision of information and the rights of data subjects to have access to their personal data as well as to procure the correction and erasure of their personal data .


### in order to ensure coherence and transparency in relation to proposed citizens ' initiatives , it should be mandatory to register such initiatives on a website made available by the commission prior to collecting the necessary statements of support from citizens ; proposals that are abusive or devoid of seriousness should not be registered and the commission should reject the registration of proposals which would be manifestly against the values of the union . the commission should deal with registration in accordance with the general principles of good administration . ### in order to ensure coherence and transparency in relation to proposed citizens ' initiatives and to avoid a situation in which signatures are collected for a proposal which does not fall within the scope of this regulation , it should be mandatory to register such initiatives on a website made available by the commission prior to collecting the necessary statements of support from citizens . proposals that are not citizens ' initiatives within the meaning of this regulation should not be registered . registration is an administrative procedure aimed at selecting those initiatives that fall within the scope of this regulation ; therefore any refusal of registration should be based only on legal grounds and not , on any account , on grounds of political expediency . the commission should deal with registration in accordance with the general principles of good administration , and should therefore be obliged to inform the organisers of an initiative of the reasons for any refusal to register that initiative and of all possible judicial and extrajudicial remedies available to them . it should also be made clear by the commission that registration and the collection of the required number of statements of support will not necessarily result in the commission adopting a proposal for a legal act and that the registration of an initiative does not constitute a formal decision on competence issues .


### the organiser shall destroy all statements of support received for a given citizens ' initiative and any copies thereof at the latest one month after submitting that initiative to the commission in accordance with article 10 or 18 months after the date of registration of a proposed citizens ' initiative , whichever is the earlier . ### unless the proceedings are the subject of litigation , the organiser shall destroy all statements of support received for a given citizens ' initiative and any copies thereof at the latest two months after the publication of the commission communication referred to in point of article 11 . in the event of litigation , they shall be destroyed one month after the conclusion of the litigation . save where the competent authorities of member states have not yet concluded their verification of statements of support , they shall also be destroyed if a proposed citizens ' initiative has not been submitted to the commission within 18 months after the date of its registration .


### all statements of support shall be collected after the date of registration of the proposed initiative and within a period that shall not exceed 12 months . ### all statements of support shall be collected after the date of registration of the proposed initiative and within a period that shall not exceed 24 months .


### this regulation shall enter into force on the twentieth day following that of its publication in the official journal of the european union . ### this regulation shall enter into force on the first day of the month following its publication in the official journal of the european union . it shall start to apply six months after its entry into force .


### the commission should be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union for the purpose of amending the annexes to this regulation . ### with a view to the possible need in the future to amend or supplement certain non - essential elements in the provisions of this regulation or its annexes , the commission should be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union .


### it is appropriate to provide for statements of support to be collected in paper form as well as online . online collection systems should have adequate security features in place in order to ensure , inter alia , that the person can be identified and that the data are securely stored . for this purpose , the commission should be required to set out detailed technical specifications for online collection systems . ### in order to put modern technology to good use as a tool of participatory democracy , it is appropriate to provide for statements of support to be collected online as well as in paper form . online collection systems should have adequate security features in place in order to ensure , inter alia , that the person signs only once and that the data are securely stored . the detailed technical specifications should be worked out at an expert level and be regularly adapted to technical developments ; the power to adopt detailed technical specifications for online collection systems should therefore be delegated to the commission .


### except in the cases foreseen in paragraphs 3 and 4 , the commission shall register without delay the proposed initiative under a unique registration number and send a confirmation to the organiser . ### if it is established that the proposed initiative qualifies as a citizens ' initiative pursuant to this regulation , the commission shall register it under a unique registration number and send a confirmation to the organisers .


### requirements for the organiser and for signatories ### requirements for organisers and for signatories


### in one third of member states , signatories shall comprise at least the minimum number of citizens set out in annex i . ### in one fifth of member states , signatories shall comprise at least the minimum number of citizens set out in annex i .


### the signatories of a citizens ' initiative shall come from at least one third of member states . ### the signatories of a citizens ' initiative shall come from at least one fifth of member states .


### in order to be eligible to support a proposed citizens ' initiative , signatories shall be citizens of the union and shall be of the age to be entitled to vote in the european elections . ### in order to be eligible to support a proposed citizens ' initiative , signatories shall be citizens of the union and shall be at least 16 years old .


### only statements of support forms which comply with the model set out in annex iii may be used for this purpose . the organiser shall complete the forms as indicated in annex iii prior to initiating the collection of statements of support from signatories . the information given in the forms shall correspond to the information contained in the register . ### only registered language versions of statements of support forms which comply with the model set out in annex iii may be used for this purpose . the organisers shall complete the forms as indicated in annex iii prior to initiating the collection of statements of support from signatories . the information given in the forms shall correspond to the information contained in the register .


### the treaty on european union reinforces the citizenship of the union and enhances further the democratic functioning of the union by providing inter alia that every citizen shall have the right to participate in the democratic life of the union and that not less than one million citizens who are nationals of a significant number of member states may take the initiative of inviting the european commission , within the framework of its powers , to submit any appropriate proposal on matters where citizens consider that a legal act of the union is required for the purpose of implementing the treaties . ### the treaty on european union reinforces the citizenship of the union and enhances further the democratic functioning of the union by providing inter alia that every citizen shall have the right to participate in the democratic life of the union by way of a european citizens ' initiative . that procedure affords citizens the possibility of directly approaching the commission , conferring on them a right of initiative similar to that exercised by the european parliament and the council .


### prior to initiating the collection of statements of support from signatories for a proposed citizens ' initiative , the organiser shall be required to register it with the commission , providing the information set out in annex ii , in particular on the subject - matter and objectives as well as on the sources of funding and support for the proposed citizens ' initiative . this information shall be provided in one of the official languages of the union , in an online register made available for that purpose by the commission . ### prior to initiating the collection of statements of support from signatories for a proposed citizens ' initiative , the organisers shall be required to register it with the commission , providing the information set out in annex ii , in particular on the subject - matter and objectives of the proposed citizens ' initiative . the organisers shall provide , for the register defined in the third subparagraph and where appropriate on their website , regularly updated information on the sources of support and funding for the initiative . this information shall be provided in one or more official languages of the union , in an online register made available for that purpose by the commission . information in an official language other the language in which it was originally provided may be provided subsequently for entry in the register . the translation of the initiative into other official languages of the union shall be the responsibility of the organisers .


### it is appropriate to provide that , where a citizens ' initiative has received the necessary statements of support from signatories and provided it is considered admissible , each member state should be responsible for the verification and certification of statements of support collected from citizens coming from that state . taking account of the need to limit the administrative burden for member states , they should , within a period of three months , carry out such verifications on the basis of appropriate checks and should issue a document certifying the number of valid statements of support received . ### in the absence of a competent union electoral authority , it is appropriate to provide that , where a citizens ' initiative has received the necessary statements of support from signatories , each member state should be responsible for the verification and certification of statements of support collected from citizens coming from that state . taking account of the need to limit the administrative burden for member states , they should , within a period of three months , carry out such verifications on the basis of appropriate checks , which may be based on random sampling , and should issue a document certifying the number of valid statements of support received .


### within 12 months following the entry into force of this regulation , the commission shall adopt technical specifications for the implementation of paragraph 4 , in accordance with the regulatory procedure laid down in article 19 . ### within six months following the entry into force of this regulation , the commission shall adopt by means of delegated acts technical specifications for online collection systems .


### directive 95 / 46 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 24 october 1995 on the protection of individuals with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data is fully applicable to the processing of personal data carried out in application of this regulation . in this respect , it is appropriate to clarify that the organiser of a citizens ' initiative and the competent authorities of the member states are the data controllers within the meaning of directive 95 / 46 / ec and to specify the maximum period within which the personal data collected for the purposes of a citizens ' initiative may be retained . in their capacity as data controllers , organisers need to take all the appropriate measures to comply with the obligations imposed by directive 95 / 46 / ec , in particular those relating to the lawfulness of the processing , the security of the processing activities and the provision of information and the rights of data subject to access to his / her personal data as well as the correction and erasure of his / her personal data . ### directive 95 / 46 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 24 october 1995 on the protection of individuals with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data is fully applicable to the processing of personal data carried out in application of this regulation . in this respect , for the sake of legal certainty , it is appropriate to clarify that the organisers of a citizens ' initiative and the competent authorities of the member states are the data controllers within the meaning of directive 95 / 46 / ec and to specify the maximum period within which the personal data collected for the purposes of a citizens ' initiative may be retained . in their capacity as data controllers , organisers need to take all the appropriate measures to comply with the obligations imposed by directive 95 / 46 / ec , in particular those relating to the lawfulness of the processing , the security of the processing activities and the provision of information and the rights of data subjects to have access to their personal data as well as to procure the correction and erasure of their personal data .


### five years after the entry into force of this regulation , the commission shall present a report to the european parliament and the council on the implementation of this regulation . ### three years after the entry into force of this regulation , and every three years thereafter , the commission shall present a report to the european parliament and the council on the implementation of this regulation , with special emphasis on online collection systems and the application of transparency requirements concerning the funding of initiatives , together , if appropriate , with a legislative proposal for amendment of this regulation .


### ' citizens ' initiative ' means an initiative , submitted to the commission in accordance with the present regulation , inviting the commission , within the framework of its powers , to submit any appropriate proposal on matters where citizens consider that a legal act of the union is required for the purpose of implementing the treaties , which has received the support of at least one million eligible signatories coming from at least one third of all member states ; ### ' citizens ' initiative ' means an initiative , submitted to the commission in accordance with the present regulation , inviting the commission , within the framework of its powers , to submit any appropriate proposal on matters where citizens consider that a legal act of the union is required for the purpose of implementing the treaties , which has received the support of at least one million eligible signatories coming from at least one fifth of all member states ;


### prior to initiating the collection of statements of support from signatories , the organiser shall ensure that the online collection system used for that purpose complies with the provisions of paragraph 4 . the organiser may , at any time , ask the relevant competent authority of the member state in which the data collected is or will be stored , to certify that the online collection system complies with those provisions . the organiser shall , in any case , request that certification prior to submitting statements of support for verification in accordance with article 9 . ### prior to initiating the collection of statements of support from signatories , the organisers shall ensure that the online collection system used for that purpose complies with the provisions of paragraph 4 . the organisers may , at any time , ask the relevant competent authority of the member state in which the data collected is or will be stored , to certify that the online collection system complies with those provisions . the organisers shall , in any case , request that certification prior to starting the collection of statements of support . the organiser shall make a copy of the certificate issued in that regard publicly available on the website used for the online collection system . within six months following the entry into force of this regulation , the commission shall make available an open - source software incorporating some of the technical and security features necessary for compliance with the provisions of this regulation regarding the online collection systems . the software shall be freely made available to organisers .


### after having collected the necessary statements of support from signatories in accordance with articles 5 and 7 , and provided that the commission has decided that a proposed citizens ' initiative is admissible in accordance with article 8 , the organiser shall submit the statements of support , in paper or in electronic form , to the relevant competent authorities provided for in article 14 for verification and certification . for this purpose the organiser shall use the form set out in annex vi . ### after having collected the necessary statements of support from signatories in accordance with articles 5 and 7 , the organisers shall submit the statements of support , in paper or in electronic form , to the relevant competent authorities provided for in article 14 for verification and certification . for this purpose the organisers shall use the form set out in annex vi .


### the competent authority shall destroy all statements of support and copies thereof that it has received for the purpose of carrying out the verification in accordance with article 9 , at the latest one month after issuing the certificate referred to therein . ### the competent authority shall destroy all statements of support and copies thereof that it has received for the purpose of carrying out the verification in accordance with article 9 , at the latest two months after issuing the certificate referred to therein . in the event of litigation they shall be destroyed one month after the conclusion of the litigation .


### the system can generate individual statements of support in a form complying with the model set out in annex iii , in order to allow for the control by the member states , in accordance with article 9 . ### the system can generate statements of support in a form complying with the model set out in annex iii , in order to allow for the control by the member states , in accordance with article 9 .


### the organiser shall destroy all statements of support received for a given citizens ' initiative and any copies thereof at the latest one month after submitting that initiative to the commission in accordance with article 10 or 18 months after the date of registration of a proposed citizens ' initiative , whichever is the earlier . ### unless the proceedings are the subject of litigation , the organiser shall destroy all statements of support received for a given citizens ' initiative and any copies thereof at the latest two months after the publication of the commission communication referred to in point of article 11 . in the event of litigation , they shall be destroyed one month after the conclusion of the litigation . save where the competent authorities of member states have not yet concluded their verification of statements of support , they shall also be destroyed if a proposed citizens ' initiative has not been submitted to the commission within 18 months after the date of its registration .


### it is appropriate to provide for statements of support to be collected in paper form as well as online . online collection systems should have adequate security features in place in order to ensure , inter alia , that the person can be identified and that the data are securely stored . for this purpose , the commission should be required to set out detailed technical specifications for online collection systems . ### in order to put modern technology to good use as a tool of participatory democracy , it is appropriate to provide for statements of support to be collected online as well as in paper form . online collection systems should have adequate security features in place in order to ensure , inter alia , that the person signs only once and that the data are securely stored . the detailed technical specifications should be worked out at an expert level and be regularly adapted to technical developments ; the power to adopt detailed technical specifications for online collection systems should therefore be delegated to the commission .


### where the organiser is a natural person , that person shall be a citizen of the union and be of the age to be entitled to vote in the european elections . where the organiser is a legal person or an organisation it shall be established in a member state . organisations which do not have legal personality under the applicable national law shall have representatives that have the capacity to undertake legal obligations on their behalf and assume liability . ### organisers shall be citizens of the union and be of the age to be entitled to vote in the european elections .


### the organiser of a proposed citizens ' initiative should be responsible for the collection of the necessary statements of support from citizens . ### once a proposal is registered as a citizens ' initiative , statements of support from citizens may be collected by the organisers .


### the commission should be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union for the purpose of amending the annexes to this regulation . ### with a view to the possible need in the future to amend or supplement certain non - essential elements in the provisions of this regulation or its annexes , the commission should be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union .


### all statements of support shall be collected after the date of registration of the proposed initiative and within a period that shall not exceed 12 months . ### all statements of support shall be collected after the date of registration of the proposed initiative and within a period that shall not exceed 12 months . at the end of that period , the register shall indicate that the period has expired and , where appropriate , that the commission has ascertained that the necessary statements of support have not been submitted .


### it is necessary to establish the minimum number of member states from which citizens must come . in order to ensure that a citizens ' initiative is representative of a union interest , this number should be set at one third of member states . ### it is necessary to establish a minimum number of member states from which citizens must come . this threshold should ensure that a citizens ' initiative is representative of a union interest but the requirements should not be too cumbersome . it therefore should be set at one fifth of the member states .


### after having obtained the certificates provided for in article 9 , and provided that all relevant procedures and conditions set out in this regulation have been complied with , the organiser may submit the citizens’ initiative to the commission . ### after having obtained the certificates provided for in article 9 , and provided that all relevant procedures and conditions set out in this regulation have been complied with , the organisers may submit the citizens’ initiative to the commission , accompanied by information regarding any support and funding received for the initiative . the amount of support and funding received from natural persons in excess of which information is to be provided shall be determined by the commission by means of delegated acts .


### the commission should examine a citizens ' initiative and set out its conclusions and the actions it envisages to take in response to it , within a period of four months . ### the commission should examine a citizens ' initiative and set out its legal and political conclusions separately ; it should also set out the actions it envisages to take in response to it . in order to demonstrate that a citizens ' initiative supported by at least one million union citizens and its possible follow - up is carefully examined , the commission should explain in a clear , comprehensible and detailed manner the reasons for its intended action , and should likewise give reasons if it does not envisage taking any action . as citizens should have the guarantee that a successful initiative will be subject of an official public hearing at union level , the institutions and bodies of the union should cooperate with a view to organising this debate .


### prior to initiating the collection of statements of support from signatories for a proposed citizens ' initiative , the organiser shall be required to register it with the commission , providing the information set out in annex ii , in particular on the subject - matter and objectives as well as on the sources of funding and support for the proposed citizens ' initiative . this information shall be provided in one of the official languages of the union , in an online register made available for that purpose by the commission . ### prior to initiating the collection of statements of support from signatories for a proposed citizens ' initiative , the organisers shall be required to register it with the commission , providing the information set out in annex ii , in particular on the subject - matter and objectives of the proposed citizens ' initiative . the organisers shall provide , for the register defined in the third subparagraph and where appropriate on their website , regularly updated information on the sources of support and funding for the initiative . this information shall be provided in one or more official languages of the union , in an online register made available for that purpose by the commission . information in an official language other the language in which it was originally provided may be provided subsequently for entry in the register . the translation of the initiative into other official languages of the union shall be the responsibility of the organisers .


### only statements of support forms which comply with the model set out in annex iii may be used for this purpose . the organiser shall complete the forms as indicated in annex iii prior to initiating the collection of statements of support from signatories . the information given in the forms shall correspond to the information contained in the register . ### only registered language versions of statements of support forms which comply with the model set out in annex iii may be used for this purpose . the organisers shall complete the forms as indicated in annex iii prior to initiating the collection of statements of support from signatories . the information given in the forms shall correspond to the information contained in the register .


### directive 95 / 46 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 24 october 1995 on the protection of individuals with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data is fully applicable to the processing of personal data carried out in application of this regulation . in this respect , it is appropriate to clarify that the organiser of a citizens ' initiative and the competent authorities of the member states are the data controllers within the meaning of directive 95 / 46 / ec and to specify the maximum period within which the personal data collected for the purposes of a citizens ' initiative may be retained . in their capacity as data controllers , organisers need to take all the appropriate measures to comply with the obligations imposed by directive 95 / 46 / ec , in particular those relating to the lawfulness of the processing , the security of the processing activities and the provision of information and the rights of data subject to access to his / her personal data as well as the correction and erasure of his / her personal data . ### directive 95 / 46 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 24 october 1995 on the protection of individuals with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data is fully applicable to the processing of personal data carried out in application of this regulation . in this respect , for the sake of legal certainty , it is appropriate to clarify that the organisers of a citizens ' initiative and the competent authorities of the member states are the data controllers within the meaning of directive 95 / 46 / ec and to specify the maximum period within which the personal data collected for the purposes of a citizens ' initiative may be retained . in their capacity as data controllers , organisers need to take all the appropriate measures to comply with the obligations imposed by directive 95 / 46 / ec , in particular those relating to the lawfulness of the processing , the security of the processing activities and the provision of information and the rights of data subjects to have access to their personal data as well as to procure the correction and erasure of their personal data .


### the competent authorities shall , within a period that shall not exceed three months , verify the statements of support provided on the basis of appropriate checks , and deliver to the organiser a certificate in accordance with the model set out in annex vii , certifying the number of valid statements of support for that member state . ### the competent authorities shall , within a period that shall not exceed three months , verify the statements of support provided on the basis of appropriate checks , and deliver to the organiser a certificate in accordance with the model set out in annex vii , certifying the number of valid statements of support for that member state . the authentication of signatures shall not be required .


### the organiser shall submit statements of support to the member state that issued the identification document indicated therein . ### the organisers shall submit statements of support to the member state where the signatories have their permanent residence or , in the case of signatories having their permanent residence in a third country , to the member state of which they are nationals .


### except in the cases foreseen in paragraphs 3 and 4 , the commission shall register without delay the proposed initiative under a unique registration number and send a confirmation to the organiser . ### if it is established that the proposed initiative qualifies as a citizens ' initiative pursuant to this regulation , the commission shall register it under a unique registration number and send a confirmation to the organisers .


### this regulation shall enter into force on the twentieth day following that of its publication in the official journal of the european union . ### this regulation shall enter into force on the first day of the month following its publication in the official journal of the european union . it shall start to apply six months after its entry into force .


### within 12 months following the entry into force of this regulation , the commission shall adopt technical specifications for the implementation of paragraph 4 , in accordance with the regulatory procedure laid down in article 19 . ### within six months following the entry into force of this regulation , the commission shall adopt by means of delegated acts technical specifications for online collection systems .


### proposed citizens ' initiatives which can be reasonably regarded as improper because they are abusive or devoid of seriousness will not be registered . ### the commission shall register a proposed initiative within two months from its receipt when the following conditions are fulfilled : the citizens ' committee has been formed and the contact persons have been designated ; there are no manifest , significant inconsistencies between the linguistic versions of the title , subject - matter and objectives of the proposed initiative ; the initiative does not manifestly fall outside the scope of the commission’s power under the treaties to submit a proposal for the requested legal act ; the proposed initiative is not manifestly abusive , frivolous or vexatious ; the proposed initiative is not manifestly contrary to the values of the union as set out in article 2 of the treaty on european union .


### the treaty on european union reinforces the citizenship of the union and enhances further the democratic functioning of the union by providing inter alia that every citizen shall have the right to participate in the democratic life of the union and that not less than one million citizens who are nationals of a significant number of member states may take the initiative of inviting the european commission , within the framework of its powers , to submit any appropriate proposal on matters where citizens consider that a legal act of the union is required for the purpose of implementing the treaties . ### the treaty on european union reinforces the citizenship of the union and enhances further the democratic functioning of the union by providing inter alia that every citizen shall have the right to participate in the democratic life of the union by way of a european citizens ' initiative . that procedure affords citizens the possibility of directly approaching the commission , conferring on them a right of initiative similar to that exercised by the european parliament and the council .


### prior to initiating the collection of statements of support from signatories , the organiser shall ensure that the online collection system used for that purpose complies with the provisions of paragraph 4 . the organiser may , at any time , ask the relevant competent authority of the member state in which the data collected is or will be stored , to certify that the online collection system complies with those provisions . the organiser shall , in any case , request that certification prior to submitting statements of support for verification in accordance with article 9 . ### prior to initiating the collection of statements of support from signatories , the organisers shall ensure that the online collection system used for that purpose complies with the provisions of paragraph 4 . the organisers may , at any time , ask the relevant competent authority of the member state in which the data collected is or will be stored , to certify that the online collection system complies with those provisions . the organisers shall , in any case , request that certification prior to starting the collection of statements of support . the organiser shall make a copy of the certificate issued in that regard publicly available on the website used for the online collection system . within six months following the entry into force of this regulation , the commission shall make available an open - source software incorporating some of the technical and security features necessary for compliance with the provisions of this regulation regarding the online collection systems . the software shall be freely made available to organisers .


### member states shall ensure that organisers resident or established on their territory shall be liable under their civil or criminal law for infringements of this regulation and in particular for : ### member states shall ensure that organisers resident on their territory shall be liable under their civil or criminal law for infringements of this regulation and in particular for :


### where the commission receives a citizens ' initiative in accordance with article 10 it shall : publish the citizens ' initiative without delay on its website ; b . examine the citizens ' initiative and , within 4 months , set out in a communication its conclusions on the initiative , the action it intends to take , if any , and its reasons for doing so ### where the commission receives a citizens ' initiative in accordance with article 10 it shall : publish the citizens ' initiative without delay on its website ; ab . receive the organisers at an appropriate level to allow them to explain in detail the matters raised by the initiative and organise a public hearing on the subject - matter of the initiative , if appropriate jointly with other institutions or bodies of the eu ; b . within three months , set out in a communication its final legal and political conclusions on the initiative , the action it intends to take , if any , and its reasons for doing or not doing so .


### the identity of the person can be verified ; ### the fact that each person submits only one statement can be verified ;


### it is appropriate to provide for statements of support to be collected in paper form as well as online . online collection systems should have adequate security features in place in order to ensure , inter alia , that the person can be identified and that the data are securely stored . for this purpose , the commission should be required to set out detailed technical specifications for online collection systems . ### in order to put modern technology to good use as a tool of participatory democracy , it is appropriate to provide for statements of support to be collected online as well as in paper form . online collection systems should have adequate security features in place in order to ensure , inter alia , that the person signs only once and that the data are securely stored . the detailed technical specifications should be worked out at an expert level and be regularly adapted to technical developments ; the power to adopt detailed technical specifications for online collection systems should therefore be delegated to the commission .


### the european parliament and the council may object to the delegated act within a period of two months from the date of notification . at the initiative of the european parliament or the council this period shall be extended by one month . ### the european parliament and the council may object to the delegated act within a period of two months from the date of notification . at the initiative of the european parliament or the council this period shall be extended by two months .


### within 12 months following the entry into force of this regulation , the commission shall adopt technical specifications for the implementation of paragraph 4 , in accordance with the regulatory procedure laid down in article 19 . ### within the 12 months following the entry into force of this regulation , the commission shall undertake in conjunction with the european data protection supervisor an evaluation enabling it to adopt technical specifications for the implementation of paragraph 4 , in accordance with the regulatory procedure laid down in article 19 . that evaluation shall be forwarded to the european parliament , together with the proposals .


### prior to initiating the collection of statements of support from signatories for a proposed citizens ' initiative , the organiser shall be required to register it with the commission , providing the information set out in annex ii , in particular on the subject - matter and objectives as well as on the sources of funding and support for the proposed citizens ' initiative . this information shall be provided in one of the official languages of the union , in an online register made available for that purpose by the commission . ### prior to initiating the collection of statements of support from signatories for a proposed citizens ' initiative , the organisers shall be required to register it with the commission , providing the information set out in annex ii , in particular on the subject - matter and objectives of the proposed citizens ' initiative . the organisers shall provide , for the register defined in the third subparagraph and where appropriate on their website , regularly updated information on the sources of support and funding for the initiative . this information shall be provided in one or more official languages of the union , in an online register made available for that purpose by the commission . information in an official language other the language in which it was originally provided may be provided subsequently for entry in the register . the translation of the initiative into other official languages of the union shall be the responsibility of the organisers .


### the communication referred to in paragraph 1 shall be notified to the organiser of the citizens ' initiative as well as to the european parliament and the council and shall be made public . ### the communication referred to in paragraph 1 shall be notified to the organisers as well as to the european parliament and the council and shall be made public .