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


### consequently the accelerator will provide financial support to not yet ' bankable ' or investors - attractive innovators and companies that have the ambition to develop and deploy in eu and international markets their breakthrough innovations and to scale up rapidly . for that purpose it will build on the experience from the phases 2 and 3 of horizon 2020 sme instrument and from horizon 2020 innovfin , in particular through the addition of non - grant components and the ability to support larger and longer investments . ### consequently the accelerator will , in full complement with the eit ' s support for start - ups and scale - ups , and in cooperation with eit and the kics , provide financial support to not yet ' bankable ' or investors - attractive innovators and companies that have the ambition to develop and deploy in eu and international markets their breakthrough innovations and to scale up rapidly . for that purpose it will build on the experience from the phases 2 and 3 of horizon 2020 sme instrument and from horizon 2020 innovfin , in particular through the addition of non - grant components and the ability to support larger and longer investments . the eit’s start - ups and scale - ups , assessed positively by the relevant kic , shall have a fast - track access to the tools and instruments of the accelerator


### consequently the accelerator will provide financial support to not yet ' bankable ' or investors - attractive innovators and companies that have the ambition to develop and deploy in eu and international markets their breakthrough innovations and to scale up rapidly . for that purpose it will build on the experience from the phases 2 and 3 of horizon 2020 sme instrument and from horizon 2020 innovfin , in particular through the addition of non - grant components and the ability to support larger and longer investments . ### consequently the accelerator will provide financial support to not yet ' bankable ' or investors - attractive innovators and companies that have the ambition to develop and deploy in eu and international markets their innovations and to scale up rapidly . for that purpose it will build on the experience from the phases 2 and 3 of horizon 2020 sme instrument and from horizon 2020 innovfin , in particular through the addition of non - grant components and the ability to support larger and longer investments .


### –support for investment in equity27 or other repayable forms , so as to bridge innovation activities with effective market deployment , including scale - up , in a manner that does not crowd out private investments or distorts competition in the internal market . when relevant it will channel the innovator to access to debt financing provided by the investeu programme . _________________ 27 usually no more than 25% of the voting rights . in exceptional cases , the eu may secure the acquisition of a blocking minority to protect european interests in essential areas , e . g . cyber security . ### –support for investment in equity5 or other repayable forms , so as to bridge innovation activities with effective market deployment , including scale - up , in a manner that does not crowd out private investments or distorts competition in the internal market . when relevant it will channel the innovator to access to debt financing provided by the investeu programme .


### support will be awarded through a single process and with a single decision , providing the supported innovator with a single global commitment to financial resources covering the various stages of innovation down to market deployment including pre - mass commercialisation . the full implementation of the awarded support will be subject to milestones and review . the combination and volume of financing will be adapted to the needs of the firm , its size and stage , the nature of the technology / innovation and the length of the innovation cycle . it will cover financing needs until replacement by alternative sources of investment . ### this additional support will be awarded through a single process and with a single decision , providing the supported innovator with a single global commitment to financial resources covering the various stages of innovation down to market deployment . the full implementation of the awarded support will be subject to milestones and review . the combination and volume of financing will be adapted to the needs of the firm , its size and stage , the nature of the technology / innovation and the length of the innovation cycle . the financial instruments awarded , together with the previous grant , will not exceed the amount of five million euros .


### the accelerator will mainly operate through a continuously open and bottom - up call , targeting individual entrepreneurs , with a particular attention paid to young and to women innovators . this open and bottom - up call will be complemented by targeted support for on emerging breakthrough or disruptive technologies of potential strategic significance . proposals may also be submitted by investors , including public innovation agencies , but the support will be awarded to the company . ### the accelerator will mainly operate through a continuously open and bottom - up call , with cut - off dates , targeting individual entrepreneurs , with a particular attention paid to young and to women innovators . this open and bottom - up call will be complemented by targeted support for on emerging breakthrough or disruptive technologies of potential strategic significance .


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


### the accelerator will allow for fast - track take - up of innovations stemming from pathfinder - supported projects from the pathfinder , from similar member states ' advanced research programmes ' and from other pillars of the eu framework programmes28 , in order to support them to reach the market . this identification of projects supported in other pillars of horizon europe and also previous framework programmes will be based on pertinent methodologies , such as the innovation radar . _________________ 28 such as erc proof of concept , from projects supported under the ' global challenges and industrial competitiveness ' pillar , startups emerging from the kics of the european institute of innovation and technology , … including from horizon 2020 activities , particularly project selected under horizon 2020 sme phase 2 and related seal of excellence financed by member states , european partnerships . ### the accelerator will encourage applications of innovations stemming from pathfinder - supported projects from the pathfinder , from phase 1 and 2 of sme instrument for incremental innovation , from similar member states ' advanced research programmes ' and from other pillars of the eu framework programmes , in order to support them to reach the market . this identification of projects supported in other pillars of horizon europe and also previous framework programmes will be based on pertinent methodologies , such as the innovation radar .


### –eic challenges , i . e . inducement prizes , to help develop novel solutions to global challenges , bring in new actors and develop new communities . eic recognition prizes will include icapital , the social innovation inducement prize , and the women innovators ' prize . 29 the design of its prizes will be linked to eic to other parts of the framework programme , including missions and other funding bodies . opportunities for cooperation with organisations will be explored . _________________ 29 the eic prizes will take over the management of prizes launched under horizon 2020 and provide for the design and implementation of new inducement prizes and recognition awards . ### –eic challenges , i . e . inducement prizes , to help develop novel solutions to global challenges , bring in new actors and develop new communities . eic recognition prizes will include icapital , the eu challenge prize , the social innovation inducement prize , and the women innovators ' prize . 29 the design of its prizes will be linked to eic to other parts of the framework programme , including missions and other funding bodies . opportunities for cooperation with organisations will be explored . _________________ 29 the eic prizes will take over the management of prizes launched under horizon 2020 and provide for the design and implementation of new inducement prizes and recognition awards .


### the eic board will provide recommendations to the commission regarding innovation trends or initiatives needed to enhance and foster the eu innovation ecosystem , including potential regulatory barriers . the board ' s advice should also identify emerging areas of innovation to be taken into account in the activities under the global challenges and industrial competitiveness pillar and missions . in this way , the board is expected to contribute to the overall coherence of the horizon europe programme . ### the eic board will provide recommendations to the commission regarding innovation trends or initiatives needed to enhance and foster the eu innovation ecosystem , including potential regulatory barriers . the board ' s advice should also identify emerging areas of innovation to be taken into account in the activities under the societal challenges and industrial competitiveness pillar and missions . in this way , the board is expected to contribute to the overall coherence of the horizon europe programme , including to ensure the integration of sex / gender analysis in order to avoid gender bias and allow all segments of population benefit from innovation processes .


### in particular , programme managers will oversee the implementation of pathfinder calls , and propose evaluation rankings in view of consistent strategic portfolio of projects , expected to make essential contributions to the emergence of potential societal or economic market creating innovations . ### in particular , programme managers will assist the commission to oversee the implementation of pathfinder calls .


### to fully harness the potential of innovation involving researchers , entrepreneurs , industry and society at large , the eu must improve the environment within which innovation can flourish at all levels . this will mean contributing to the development of an effective innovation ecosystem at eu level , and encouraging cooperation , networking , and the exchange of ideas , funding and skills among national and local innovation ecosystems . ### to fully harness the potential of innovation involving researchers , entrepreneurs , industry and society at large , the eu must improve the environment within which innovation can flourish at all levels . this will mean contributing to the development of an effective innovation ecosystem at eu level , and encouraging cooperation , networking , and the exchange of ideas , funding and skills among national and local innovation ecosystems , as well as encouraging collaboration among innovation centres already recognised at national and local level .


### the eu must also aim to develop ecosystems that support social innovation and public sector innovation , in addition to innovation in private enterprises . indeed , the government sector must innovate and renew itself in order to be able to support the changes in regulation and governance required to support the large - scale deployment of new technologies and a growing public demand for the more efficient and effective delivery of services . social innovations are crucial to enhance the welfare of our societies . ### the eu must also aim to develop ecosystems that support social innovation and public sector innovation , in addition to innovation in private enterprises . indeed , the government sector must innovate and renew itself in order to be able to support the changes in regulation and governance required to support the large - scale deployment of new technologies and a growing public demand for the more efficient , effective , accessible and inclusive delivery of services . social innovations are crucial to enhance the welfare , inclusion and active engagement of our societies .


### as the report of the high level group on maximising the impact of eu research and innovation clearly states , the way forward is ' to educate for the future and invest in people who will make the change ' . in particular , european universities are called to stimulate entrepreneurship , tear down disciplinary borders and institutionalise strong non - disciplinary academia - industry collaborations . according to recent surveys , access to talented people is by far the most important factor influencing the location choices of european founders of start - ups . entrepreneurship education and training opportunities play a key role in cultivating future innovators and in developing the abilities of existing ones to grow their business to greater levels of success . access to entrepreneurial talent , together with access to professional services , capital and markets on the eu level , and bringing key innovation actors together around a common goal are key ingredients for nurturing an innovation ecosystem . there is a need to coordinate efforts across the eu . in order to create a critical mass of interconnected eu - wide entrepreneurial clusters and ecosystems , ### as the report of the high level group on maximising the impact of eu research and innovation clearly states , the way forward is ' to educate for the future and invest in people who will make the change ' . in particular , european universities are called to stimulate entrepreneurship , tear down disciplinary borders and institutionalise strong non - disciplinary academia - industry collaborations . according to recent surveys , access to talented people is by far the most important factor influencing the location choices of european founders of start - ups . entrepreneurship education and training opportunities play a key role in cultivating future innovators and in developing the abilities of existing ones to grow their business to greater levels of success . access to entrepreneurial talent , together with access to professional services , capital and markets on the eu level , and bringing key innovation actors together around a common goal are key ingredients for nurturing an innovation ecosystem , making the most of successful innovation models and best practice at regional , national , and european level . there is a need to coordinate efforts across the eu . in order to create a critical mass of interconnected eu - wide entrepreneurial clusters and ecosystems ,


### to address future challenges , embrace the opportunities of new technologies and contribute to sustainable economic growth , jobs , competitiveness and the well - being of europe’s citizens , there is the need to further strengthen europe’s capacity to innovate by : fostering the creation of new environments conducive to collaboration and innovation ; strengthening the innovation capabilities of academia and the research sector ; supporting a new generation of entrepreneurial people ; stimulating the creation and the development of innovative ventures . ### to address future challenges , embrace the opportunities of new technologies and contribute to sustainable economic growth , jobs , competitiveness and the well - being of europe’s citizens , there is the need to further strengthen europe’s capacity to innovate by : fostering the creation of new environments conducive to collaboration and innovation ; strengthening the innovation capabilities of academia and the research sector ; supporting a new generation of entrepreneurial and research people ; stimulating the creation and the development of innovative ventures .


### the eit will play a reinforced role in strengthening sustainable innovation ecosystems across europe . in particular , the eit will continue to operate primarily through its knowledge and innovation communities , the large - scale european partnerships that address specific societal challenges . it will continue to strengthen innovation ecosystems around them , by fostering the integration of research , innovation and education . furthermore , eit will contribute to bridge existing gaps in innovation performance across europe by expanding its regional innovation scheme . the eit will work with innovation ecosystems that exhibit high innovation potential based on strategy , thematic alignment and impact , in close synergy with smart specialisation strategies and platforms . ### the eit will play a reinforced role in strengthening sustainable innovation ecosystems across europe , providing solutions to the most pressing global challenges our societies are facing . in particular , the eit will continue to operate primarily through its knowledge and innovation communities , the large - scale european partnerships that address specific societal challenges . the creation of new kics as well as its timing must be carefully considered not to undermine the efficiency and sustainability of the existing ones and should therefore be accompanied by additional funding . it will continue to strengthen innovation ecosystems around them , by fostering the integration of research , innovation and education . furthermore , eit will contribute to bridge existing gaps in innovation performance across europe by expanding its regional innovation scheme . the eit will work with innovation ecosystems that exhibit high innovation potential based on strategy , thematic alignment and impact , in close synergy with smart specialisation strategies and platforms .


### –development of innovation and entrepreneurship capabilities of the higher education sector , by leveraging the eit community expertise in linking education , research and business ; ### –development of innovation , capacity building , social innovation and entrepreneurship capabilities of the higher education sector , by leveraging the eit community expertise in linking education , research and business ;


### the eit will facilitate and empower entrepreneurs , innovators , educators , students and other innovation actors to work together in cross - disciplinary teams to generate ideas and transform them into both incremental and disruptive innovations . activities will be characterised by an open innovation and cross - border approach , with a focus on including relevant knowledge triangle activities that are pertinent to making them a success . ### the eit will facilitate and empower entrepreneurs , innovators , designers , educators , students and other innovation actors to work together in cross - disciplinary teams to generate ideas and transform them into both incremental and disruptive innovations . activities will be characterised by an open innovation and cross - border approach , with a focus on including relevant knowledge triangle activities that are pertinent to making them a success .


### –planning and implementation of eit activities in order to maximise synergies and complementarities with the actions under the global challenges and industrial competitiveness pillar ; ### –planning and implementation of eit activities in order to maximise synergies and complementarities with the actions under the global challenges and industrial competitiveness pillar and when appropriate , contribution to these actions ;


### –engage with eu member states at both national and regional level , establishing a structured dialogue and coordinating efforts to enable synergies with existing national initiatives , in order to identify , share and disseminate good practices and learnings ; ### –engage with eu member states at both national and regional level , establishing a structured dialogue and coordinating efforts to enable synergies with existing and future national initiatives , in order to identify , share and disseminate good practices and learnings ;


### reducing disparities in research and innovation performance by sharing knowledge and expertise across the eu will help countries and regions that are lagging behind in terms of research and innovation performance , including the eu outermost regions , to attain a competitive position in the global value chains . activities may also be established to foster brain circulation right across era and better exploitation of existing research infrastructures in the targeted countries through mobility of researchers and innovators . ### reducing disparities in research and innovation performance by sharing knowledge and expertise across the eu and by widening participation in the programme will help both countries lagging behind in terms of research and innovation performance to attain a competitive position in the global value chains and the union to fully benefit from r&i potential of all member states . activities may also be established to foster brain circulation right across era and better exploitation of existing research infrastructures in the targeted countries through mobility and collaboration of researchers and innovators and setting new r&i networks and r&i initiatives on the base of those infrastructures .


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


### –teaming , to create new centres of excellence or upgrade existing ones in eligible countries , building on partnerships between leading scientific institutions and partner institutions ; ### –teaming , to create new centres of excellence or upgrade existing ones in eligible countries , building on partnerships between leading scientific institutions and partner institutions , for example dihs and competence centres ;


### –twinning , to significantly strengthen a university or research organisation from an eligible country in a defined field , by linking it with internationally - leading research institutions from other member states or associated countries . ### –twinning , to significantly strengthen a university or research organisation from an eligible country in a defined field , in all stages of research , by linking it with internationally - leading research institutions or research initiatives from other member states or associated countries .


### this intervention area will support the horizon europe specific objectives : spread and connect excellence across the eu ; reinforce the creation of high quality knowledge ; increase cross - sectorial , cross - disciplinary cross - border cooperation . ### the ‘ spreading excellence and widening participation’ priority will support the horizon europe specific objectives : spread and connect excellence across the eu and widen participation in the programme , including underperforming member states ; reinforce the creation of high quality knowledge ; increase cross - sectorial , cross - disciplinary cross - border cooperation and boost creation of the new r&i activities and networks , involving widening eligible countries and excellent ‘ newcomers’ from eu member states ; support ‘ science and citizens’ activities


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


### food and natural resources ### food - agriculture , forestry and rural areas - food systems - bio - based innovation systems


### food and natural resources ### food and natural resources from land and sea


### 2 . 2 . global challenges ### 2 . 2 . societal challenges


### the entry into force of the convention in the member states’ legal orders entails the need to adopt additional national provisions on accessibility of products and services which without union action would further increase disparities between national provisions . ### the entry into force of the convention in the member states ' legal orders entails the need to adopt additional national provisions on accessibility of products and services and the built environment related to the provision of goods and services which without union action would further increase disparities between national provisions .


### in some situations , common accessibility requirements of the built environment would facilitate the free movement of the related services and of persons with disabilities . therefore , this directive enables member states to include the built environment used in the provision of the services under the scope of this directive , ensuring compliance with the accessibility requirements set in annex x . ### without common accessibility requirements of the built environment connected to products and services , any accessibility standards of goods and services cannot be effective in ensuring accessibility for persons with disabilities . therefore , this directive obliges the member states to include the built environment used in the provision of the products and services under the scope of this directive , ensuring compliance with the accessibility requirements set in annex x .


### this directive should follow the principle of ' think small first ' and should take account of the administrative burdens that smes are faced with . it should set light rules in terms of conformity assessment and should establish safeguard clauses for economic operators , rather than providing for general exceptions and derogations for those enterprises . consequently , when setting up the rules for the selection and implementation of the most appropriate conformity assessment procedures , the situation of smes should be taken into account and the obligations to assess conformity of accessibility requirements should be limited to the extent that they do not pose a disproportionate burden on smes . in addition , market surveillance authorities should operate in a proportionate manner in relation to the size of undertakings and to the small serial or non - serial nature of the production concerned , without creating unnecessary obstacles for smes and without compromising the protection of public interests . ### this directive should be wide - reaching , while also taking account of the administrative burdens that smes are faced with . it should set precise and effective rules in terms of conformity assessment and economic operators could invoke safeguard clauses under exceptional circumstances only , rather than providing for general exceptions and derogations for those enterprises . exceptions to the rules of conformity assessment should be interpreted restrictively . consequently , when setting up the rules for the selection and implementation of the most appropriate conformity assessment procedures , the situation of smes should be taken into account and the obligations to assess conformity of accessibility requirements should be limited to the extent that they do not pose a disproportionate burden on smes . in addition , market surveillance authorities should operate in a proportionate manner in relation to the size of undertakings and to the small serial or non - serial nature of the production concerned , without creating unnecessary obstacles for smes and without compromising the protection of public interests .


### general purpose computer hardware and operating systems ### general purpose computer hardware and operating systems and household appliances operated by user interface


### “universal design” referred to also as “design for all” means the design of products , environments , programmes and services to be usable by all people , to the greatest extent possible , without the need for adaptation or specialised design ; “universal design” does not exclude assistive devices for particular groups of persons with functional limitations , including persons with disabilities where this is needed ; ### ' universal design ' referred to also as ' design for all ' means the design of products , environments , programmes and services to be usable by all people , to the greatest extent possible , without the need for adaptation or specialised design ; ' universal design ' does not exclude assistive devices for particular groups of persons with functional limitations and persons with disabilities where this is needed ;


### the burden shall not be deemed disproportionate where it is compensated by funding from other sources than the economic operator’s own resources , whether public or private . ### the burden shall not be deemed disproportionate where it is compensated by funding from other sources than the economic operator ' s own resources , whether public or private . lack of priority , time or knowledge shall not be considered as legitimate reasons to claim the disproportionate burden .


### the assessment of whether compliance with accessibility requirements regarding products or services imposes a fundamental alteration or disproportionate burden shall be performed by the economic operator . ### the initial assessment of whether compliance with accessibility requirements regarding products or services imposes a fundamental alteration or disproportionate burden shall be performed by the economic operator .


### design and production : the design and production of products in order to maximise their foreseeable use by persons with functional limitations , including persons with disabilities and those with age related impairments , shall be achieved by making accessible the following : the information on the use of the product provided on the product itself , which : must be available by more than one sensory channel ; must be understandable ; must be perceivable ; shall have an adequate size of fonts in foreseeable conditions of use ; the packaging of the product including the information provided in it ; the product instructions for use , installation and maintenance , storage and disposal of the product which shall comply with the following : the content of instruction shall be available in text formats that can be used for generating alternative assistive formats to be presented in different ways and via more than one sensory channel , and the instructions shall provide alternatives to non - text content ; the user interface of the product in accordance with point 2 ; the functionality of the product by providing functions aimed to address the needs of persons with functional limitations , in accordance with point 2 ; the interfacing of the product with assistive devices . ### design and production : the design and production of products in order to maximise their foreseeable use by persons with functional limitations , including persons with disabilities and those with age related impairments , shall be achieved by complying with the following accessibility requirements : the information on the use of the product provided on the product itself , which : must be available by more than one sensory channel ; shall be understandable ; shall be perceivable ; shall have an adequate size and type of fonts with sufficient contrast between the characters and their background in order to maximise its readability in foreseeable conditions of use ; shall be made available in accessible web format and electronic non - web documents by making them perceivable , operable , understandable and robust . the packaging of the product including the information provided in it which : shall meet the requirements laid down in point 1a ; shall in a simple and precise way inform the users that the product incorporates accessibility features and its compatibility with assistive technologies ; the product instructions for use , installation and maintenance , storage and disposal of the product , whether provided separately or integrated within the product , which shall comply with the following : shall be made available in accessible web format and electronic non - web document by making them perceivable , operable , understandable and robust ; shall list and explain how to use the accessibility features of the product and its compatibility with a variety of assistive technologies available at union and international level ; shall be provided on alternative non - electronic formats upon request . the alternative non - electronic formats may include large print , braille , or easy - to - read text . the user interface of the product in accordance with point 2 ; the functionality of the product by providing functions aimed to address the needs of persons with functional limitations , in accordance with point 2 ; the product shall provide compatibility with a variety of assistive devices and technologies available at union and international level , including hearing technologies , such as hearing aids , telecoils , cochlear implants , and assistive listening devices .


### design and production : the design and production of products in order to maximise their foreseeable use by persons with functional limitations , including persons with disabilities and those with age related impairments , shall be achieved by making accessible the following : ### design and production : the design and production of products in order to maximise their foreseeable use by persons with functional limitations , including persons with disabilities and those with age related impairments , shall be achieved by complying with the following accessibility requirements :


### the information on the use of the product provided on the product itself , which : ### the information on the use of the product provided on the product itself , which shall be provided in accessible web format and electronic non - web document :


### must be understandable ; ### shall be understandable ;


### must be perceivable ; ### shall be perceivable ;


### shall have an adequate size of fonts in foreseeable conditions of use ; ### shall have an adequate size and type of fonts with sufficient contrast between the characters and their background in order to maximise its readability in foreseeable conditions of use ;


### the interfacing of the product with assistive devices . ### the product shall provide compatibility with assistive devices and technologies , including hearing technologies , such as hearing aids , telecoils , cochlear implants , and assistive listening devices . the product shall also allow for the use of personal headsets .


### the packaging of the product including the information provided in it ; ### the packaging of the product including the information provided in it which : shall meet the requirements laid down in point 1a ; shall in a simple and precise way inform the users that the product incorporates accessibility features and its compatibility with assistive technologies ;


### the product instructions for use , installation and maintenance , storage and disposal of the product which shall comply with the following : ### the product instructions for use , installation and maintenance , storage and disposal of the product , whether provided separately or integrated within the product , which shall comply with the following :


### the interfacing of the product with assistive devices . ### the product shall provide compatibility with a variety of assistive devices and technologies available at union and international level , including hearing technologies , such as hearing aids , telecoils , cochlear implants , and assistive listening devices .


### the packaging of the product including the information provided in it ; ### the packaging of the product including the information provided in it , which : shall meet the requirements laid down in point 1 ; shall in a simple and precise way inform the users that the product incorporates accessibility features and its compatibility with assistive technologies ;


### instructions shall provide alternatives to non - text content ; ### shall list and explain how to use the accessibility features of the product and its compatibility with a variety of assistive technologies available at union and international level ;


### user interface and functionality design ### functionality requirements for user interface and design of the product


### in order to make accessible the design of the products and their user interface as referred to in points and of point 1 they must be designed , where applicable , as follows : ### in order to make accessible the design of the products and their user interface as referred to in points and of point 1 they shall be designed , where applicable , as follows :


### provide for communication and orientation via more than one sensory channel ; ### provide for communication and orientation via more than one sensory channel including : where the product provides visual modes of communication and operation , the product shall provide at least one mode of information and operation that does not require vision , where the product provides auditory modes of information and operation , the product shall provide at least one mode of information and operation that does not require hearing ;


### provide for alternatives to speech for communication and orientation ; ### provide for alternatives to speech for communication and orientation . where the product requires vocal input from users , the product shall provide at least one mode of operation that does not require the users to generate orally - generated sounds like speech , whistles or clicks ;


### provide for flexible magnification and contrast ; ### where the product provides visual modes of communication and operation , provide for features that enable users to make better use of their limited vision , including by providing flexible magnification without loss of content or functionality , flexible contrast and brightness , and where possible , it shall include flexible ways to separate and control foreground from background visual elements and flexible control over the field of vision required ;


### provide for an alternative colour to convey information ; ### provide for a visual mode of operation that does not require user perception of colour ;


### provide for flexible ways to separate and control foreground from background including for reducing background noise and improve clarity ; ### provide for user control of volume and enhanced audio features to improve audio clarity , including flexible ways to separate and control foreground from background sound where voice and background are available as separate audio streams ;


### provide for sequential control and alternatives to fine motor control ; ### provide for sequential control and alternatives to fine motor control , including where the product requires manual actions , the product shall provide features that enable users to make use of the product through alternative modes of operation not requiring fine motor control like manipulation or hand strength , nor operation of more than one control at the same time ;


### provide for modes of operation with limited reach and strength ; ### provide for modes of operation with limited reach and strength , including where product is free - standing or installed , the informational and operational elements shall be located within standard accessible reach ranges or it shall be possible for a user to place it within reach ;


### provide avoidance of triggering photosensitive seizures . ### where the product provides visual modes of information , the product shall provide at least one mode of information that minimizes the potential for triggering photosensitive seizures ;


### user interface and functionality design : in order to make accessible the design of the products and their user interface as referred to in points and of point 1 they must be designed , where applicable , as follows : provide for communication and orientation via more than one sensory channel ; provide for alternatives to speech for communication and orientation ; provide for flexible magnification and contrast ; provide for an alternative colour to convey information ; provide for flexible ways to separate and control foreground from background including for reducing background noise and improve clarity ; provide for user control of volume ; provide for sequential control and alternatives to fine motor control ; provide for modes of operation with limited reach and strength ; provide avoidance of triggering photosensitive seizures ; ### functionality requirements for user interface and design of the product : in order to make accessible the design of the products and their user interface as referred to in points and of point 1 they shall be designed , where applicable , as follows : provide for communication and orientation via more than one sensory channel including : where the product provides visual modes of communication and operation , the product shall provide at least one mode of information and operation that does not require vision , where the product provides auditory modes of information and operation , the product shall provide at least one mode of information and operation that does not require hearing ; provide for alternatives to speech for communication and orientation , where the product requires vocal input from users , the product shall provide at least one mode of operation that does not require the users to generate orally - generated sounds like speech , whistles or clicks ; where the product provides visual modes of communication and operation , provide for features that enable users to make better use of their limited vision , including by providing flexible magnification without loss of content or functionality , flexible contrast and brightness , and where possible , it should include flexible ways to separate and control foreground from background visual elements and flexible control over the field of vision required ; provide for a visual mode of operation that does not require user perception of colour ; provide for user control of volume and enhanced audio features to improve audio clarity , including flexible ways to separate and control foreground from background sound where voice and background are available as separate audio streams ; provide for sequential control and alternatives to fine motor control , including where the product requires manual actions , the product shall provide features that enable users to make use of the product through alternative modes of operation not requiring fine motor control like manipulation or hand strength , nor operation of more than one control at the same time ; provide for modes of operation with limited reach and strength , including where product is free - standing or installed , the informational and operational elements shall be located within standard accessible reach ranges or it shall be possible for a user to place it within reach ; where the product provides visual modes of information , the product shall provide at least one mode of information that minimizes the potential for triggering photosensitive seizures ; provide for features that make its communication and user operation simpler and easier to use ; where the product provides features that are provided for accessibility , the users’ privacy shall be maintained when using those features .


### self - service terminals : automatic teller machines , ticketing machines and check - in machines ### self - service terminals : automatic teller machines , payment terminals , parking ticket vending machines , ticketing machines and check - in machines


### making websites accessible in a consistent and adequate way for users’ perception , operation and understanding , including the adaptability of content presentation and interaction , when necessary providing an accessible electronic alternative ; and in a way which facilitates interoperability with a variety of user agents and assistive technologies available at union and international level ; ### making websites and online applications needed for the provision of the service accessible in a consistent and adequate way for users’ perception , operation and understanding , including the adaptability of content presentation and interaction , when necessary providing an accessible electronic alternative ; and in a robust way which facilitates interoperability with a variety of user agents and assistive technologies available at union and international level ;


### including functions , practices , policies and procedures and alterations in the operation of the service targeted to address the needs of persons with functional limitations . ### functions , practices , policies and procedures and alterations in the operation of the service targeted to address the needs of persons with disabilities : where a service provides two - way voice communication , it shall also support real - time text in parallel and on the same call ; where a service supports two - way communication and this service is specified for use with relay services , support shall be provided for voice , real - time text , and / or video , alone or in any combination , on both outgoing and incoming calls ; where a service supports two - way communication and this system is specified for use with emergency services , support shall be provided for voice , real - time text , and / or video , alone or in any combination , on both outgoing and incoming calls .


### making websites accessible in a consistent and adequate way for users’ perception , operation and understanding , including the adaptability of content presentation and interaction , when necessary providing an accessible electronic alternative ; and in a way which facilitates interoperability with a variety of user agents and assistive technologies available at union and international level ; ### making websites and online applications needed for the provision of the service accessible in a consistent and adequate way for users ' perception , operation and understanding , including the adaptability of content presentation and interaction , when necessary providing an accessible electronic alternative ; and in a robust way which facilitates interoperability with a variety of user agents and assistive technologies available at union and international level ;


### providing accessible information to facilitate complementarities with assistive services ; ### providing accessible information to facilitate complementarities with assistive services and technologies , including hearing technologies , such as hearing aids , telecoils , cochlear implants , and assistive listening devices ;


### the eib and the eif should ensure that the final beneficiaries , including smes , are informed of the existence of efsi support , so as to enhance the visibility of the eu guarantee granted under regulation 2015 / 1017 . ### the eib and the eif should ensure that all the final beneficiaries are duly informed of the existence of efsi support , so as to enhance the visibility of the eu guarantee granted under regulation 2015 / 1017 .


### with a view to enhancing the transparency of efsi operations , the investment committee should explain in its decisions , which are made public and accessible , the reasons why it deems that an operation should be granted the eu guarantee , with particular focus on compliance with the additionality criterion . the scoreboard of indicators should be made public once an operation under the eu guarantee is signed . ### with a view to enhancing the transparency of efsi operations , the investment committee should explain in its decisions , which are made public and accessible , the reasons why it deems that an operation should be granted the eu guarantee , with particular focus on compliance with the additionality criterion , as well as performance indicators such as quality job creation , both direct and indirect . the scoreboard of indicators should be made public once an operation under the eu guarantee is signed .


### the european investment advisory hub should be enhanced and its activities should focus on needs not covered adequately under current arrangements . it should pay particular attention to supporting the preparation of projects involving two or more member states and projects that contribute to achieving the objectives of cop21 . notwithstanding its objective to build upon existing advisory services of the eib and the commission , so to act as a single technical advisory hub for project financing within the union , the eiah should also contribute actively to the objective of sectorial and geographical diversification of the efsi and support the eib where needed in originating projects . it should also actively contribute to the establishment of investment platforms and provide advice on the combination of other sources of union funding with the efsi . ### the european investment advisory hub should be enhanced and its activities should focus on needs not covered adequately under current arrangements . it should pay particular attention to supporting the preparation of projects involving two or more member states and projects that contribute to achieving the objectives of cop21 . notwithstanding its objective to build upon existing advisory services of the eib and the commission , so to act as a single technical advisory hub for project financing within the union , the eiah should also contribute actively to the objective of sectorial and geographical diversification of the efsi and support the eib where needed in originating projects . when providing advisory services , the eiah should take due regard of the equator principles on managing environmental and social risk . it should also actively contribute to the establishment of investment platforms and provide advice on the combination of other sources of union funding with the efsi .


### decisions approving the use of the eu guarantee shall be public and accessible , and include the rationale for the decision , with particular focus on compliance with the additionality criterion . the publication shall not contain commercially sensitive information . in reaching its decision , the investment committee shall be supported by the documentation provided by the eib . ; ### decisions approving the use of the eu guarantee shall be made public and accessible without delay , and include the rationale for the decision based on the projects scoreboard , with particular focus on compliance with the additionality criterion . the publication shall not contain commercially sensitive information . in reaching its decision , the investment committee shall be supported by the documentation provided by the eib . ;


### such support shall include providing targeted support on the use of technical assistance for project structuring , on the use of innovative financial instruments and on the use of public - private partnerships , taking into account the specificities and needs of member states with less - developed financial markets . ; ### such support shall include providing targeted local support on the use of technical assistance for project structuring , on the use of innovative financial instruments and on the use of public - private partnerships , taking into account the specificities and needs of member states with less - developed financial markets . ;


### leveraging local knowledge to facilitate efsi support across the union and contributing where possible to the objective of sectorial and geographical diversification of the efsi referred to in section 8 of annex ii by supporting the eib to originate operations ; ; ### leveraging local knowledge , collaborating closer with member states authorities and focusing on building capacity , so as to facilitate efsi support across the union and contributing where possible to the objective of sectorial and geographical diversification of the efsi referred to in section 8 of annex ii by supporting the eib to originate operations and increase collaboration with member states ; ;


### there is currently an imbalance in the performance of customs control by member states . this imbalance is due both to geographic differences between member states and in their respective capacities and resources . the ability of member states to react to challenges generated by the constantly evolving global business models and supply chains depend not only on the human component but also on the availability of modern and reliable customs control equipment . the provision of equivalent customs control equipment is therefore an important element in addressing the existing imbalance . it will improve equivalence in the performance of customs controls throughout member states and thereby avoid the diversion of the flows of goods towards the weakest points . ### there is currently an imbalance in the performance of customs control by member states . this imbalance is due both to geographic differences between member states and in their respective capacities and resources as well as to a lack of harmonised and standardised customs controls . the ability of member states to react to challenges generated by the constantly evolving global business models and supply chains depend not only on the human component but also on the availability and proper functioning of modern and reliable customs control equipment . other challenges , such as the surge of e - commerce , overall digitalisation and potential vulnerabilities as regards cyber attacks , sabotage , manipulation of data or industrial espionage , will also increase demand for better functioning of customs procedures . the provision of equivalent customs control equipment is therefore an important element in addressing the existing imbalance . it will improve equivalence in the performance of customs controls throughout member states and thereby avoid the diversion of the flows of goods towards the weakest points .


### there is currently an imbalance in the performance of customs control by member states . this imbalance is due both to geographic differences between member states and in their respective capacities and resources . the ability of member states to react to challenges generated by the constantly evolving global business models and supply chains depend not only on the human component but also on the availability of modern and reliable customs control equipment . the provision of equivalent customs control equipment is therefore an important element in addressing the existing imbalance . it will improve equivalence in the performance of customs controls throughout member states and thereby avoid the diversion of the flows of goods towards the weakest points . ### there is currently an imbalance in the performance of customs control by member states . this imbalance is due both to geographic differences between member states and in their respective capacities and resources . the ability of member states to react to challenges generated by the constantly evolving global business models and supply chains depend not only on the human component but also on the availability of modern and reliable customs control equipment . the provision of equivalent customs control equipment is therefore an important element in addressing the existing imbalance . it will improve equivalence in the performance of customs controls throughout member states and thereby avoid the diversion of the flows of goods towards the weakest points . in view of differences in availability of customs control equipment between the member states , measures should be taken in particular to ensure that goods are subject to uniform controls upon their entry into the customs territory of the union in order to avoid “port - shopping” by custom fraudsters .


### supporting the creation of an adequate and equivalent level of customs controls at the union’s external borders allows maximising the benefits of the customs union . a dedicated union intervention for customs control equipment correcting current imbalances would moreover contribute to the overall cohesion between member states . in view of the challenges facing the world , in particular the continued need to protect the financial and economic interests of the union and its member states while easing the flow of legitimate trade , the availability of modern and reliable control equipment at the external borders is indispensable . ### supporting the creation of an adequate and equivalent level of customs controls at the union’s external borders allows maximising the benefits of the customs union with a view to the long - term aim that all customs administrations in the eu work together as if they were one . a dedicated union intervention for customs control equipment correcting current imbalances would moreover contribute to the overall cohesion between member states . in view of the challenges facing the world , in particular the continued need to protect the financial and economic interests of the union and its member states while easing the flow of legitimate trade , the availability and proper functioning of modern , state - of - the - art , secure , cyber - resilient , safe , environmental - friendly and reliable control equipment at the external borders is indispensable .


### to ensure regular monitoring and reporting , a proper framework for monitoring the results achieved by the instrument and actions under it should be put in place . such monitoring and reporting should be based on indicators measuring the effects of the actions under the instrument . reporting requirements should include some information on customs control equipment beyond a certain cost threshold . ### to ensure regular monitoring and reporting , a proper framework for monitoring the results achieved by the instrument and actions under it should be put in place . such monitoring and reporting should be based on quantitative and qualitative indicators measuring the effects of the actions under the instrument . reporting requirements should include some information on customs control equipment beyond a certain cost threshold .


### as part of the integrated border management fund , the instrument has the general objective to support the customs union and customs authorities to protect the financial and economic interests of the union and its member states , to ensure security and safety within the union and to protect the union from unfair and illegal trade while facilitating legitimate business activity . ### as part of the integrated border management fund and with a view to the long - term aim that all customs administrations in the eu work together as if they were one , the instrument has the general objective to support the customs union and customs authorities to protect the financial and economic interests of the union and its member states , to ensure security and safety within the union and to protect the union from unfair and illegal trade while facilitating legitimate business activity .


### the instrument has the specific objective of contributing to adequate and equivalent customs controls through the purchase , maintenance and upgrade of relevant , state - of - the - art and reliable customs control equipment . ### the instrument has the specific objective of contributing to adequate and equivalent customs controls through the purchase , maintenance and upgrade of relevant , state - of - the - art , secure , cyber - resilient , safe , environmental - friendly and reliable customs control equipment .


### the commission is empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 14 to amend the customs control purposes set out in point of paragraph 1 as well as annex 1 where such review is considered necessary . ### the commission is empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 14 to amend the customs control purposes set out in point of paragraph 1 as well as annex 1 where such review is considered necessary and in order to stay up to date with technological developments and with new , smart and innovative solutions for customs control purposes .


### customs control equipment financed under this instrument may be used for purposes additional to customs controls , including for control of persons in support of the national border management authorities and investigation . ### customs control equipment financed under this instrument may be used for purposes additional to customs controls , including for control of persons in support of the national border management authorities and investigation if necessary to comply with the instrument ' s general and specific objectives outlined in article 3 .


### costs associated with electronic systems , with the exception of software directly necessary to use the customs control equipment ; ### costs associated with electronic systems , with the exception of software and software updates directly necessary to use the customs control equipment ;


### the performance reporting system shall ensure that data for monitoring the implementation and results of the instrument are collected efficiently , effectively , and in a timely manner . to that end , proportionate reporting requirements shall be imposed on recipients of union funds . ### the performance reporting system shall ensure that data for monitoring the implementation and results of the instrument are comparable and complete as well as collected efficiently , effectively , and in a timely manner . to that end , proportionate reporting requirements shall be imposed on recipients of union funds .


### evaluations shall be carried out in a timely manner to feed into the decision - making process . ### evaluations shall assess the programme ' s results , impact , effectiveness and efficiency and they shall be carried out in a timely manner to feed into the decision - making process .


### the interim evaluation of the instrument shall be performed once there is sufficient information available about the implementation of the instrument , but no later than four years after the start of the implementation of the instrument . ### the interim evaluation of the instrument shall be performed once there is sufficient information available about the implementation of the instrument , but no later than three years after the start of the implementation of the instrument .


### at the end of the implementation of the instrument , but no later than four years after the end of the period specified in article 1 , a final evaluation of the instrument shall be carried out by the commission . ### at the end of the implementation of the instrument , but no later than three years after the end of the period specified in article 1 , a final evaluation of the instrument shall be carried out by the commission .


### the recipients of union funding shall acknowledge the origin and ensure the visibility of the union funding by providing coherent , effective and proportionate targeted information to multiple audiences , including the media and the public . ### the recipients of union funding shall acknowledge the origin and ensure maximum visibility of the union funding by providing coherent , effective and proportionate targeted information to multiple audiences , including the media and the public .


### the commission shall implement information and communication actions relating to the instrument , and its actions and results . financial resources allocated to the instrument shall also contribute to the corporate communication of the political priorities of the union , as far as they are related to the objectives referred to in article 3 . ### the commission shall regularly implement information and communication actions relating to the instrument , and its actions and results as part of the work programmes as referred to in article 11 . financial resources allocated to the instrument shall also contribute to the corporate communication of the political priorities of the union , as far as they are related to the objectives referred to in article 3 .


### the measures applicable to spirit drinks should contribute to attaining a high level of consumer protection , preventing deceptive practices and attaining market transparency and fair competition . they should safeguard the reputation which the union’s spirit drinks have achieved in the union and on the world market by continuing to take into account the traditional practices used in the production of spirit drinks as well as increased demand for consumer protection and information . technological innovation should also be taken into account in respect of spirit drinks , where such innovation serves to improve quality , without affecting the traditional character of the spirit drinks concerned . the production of spirit drinks is strongly linked to the agricultural sector . besides representing a major outlet for the agriculture of the union , this link is determinant for the quality and reputation of the spirit drinks produced in the union . this strong link to the agricultural sector should therefore be emphasised by the regulatory framework . ### the measures applicable to spirit drinks should contribute to attaining a high level of consumer protection , preventing deceptive practices and attaining market transparency and fair competition . they should safeguard the reputation which the union’s spirit drinks have achieved in the union and on the world market by continuing to take into account the traditional practices used in the production of spirit drinks as well as increased demand for consumer protection and information . technological innovation should also be taken into account in respect of spirit drinks , where such innovation serves to improve quality , without affecting the traditional character of the spirit drinks concerned . the production of spirit drinks is strongly linked to the agricultural sector , and is subject to the general rules for foodstuffs set down in regulations 178 / 2006 on general food law principles , 1169 / 2011 on food information to consumers and 2017 / 625 on official controls . besides representing a major outlet for the agriculture of the union , this link is determinant for the quality and reputation of the spirit drinks produced in the union . this strong link to the agricultural sector should therefore be emphasised by the regulatory framework .


### to ensure a more uniform approach in the legislation on spirit drinks , this regulation should set out clear criteria for the definition , presentation and labelling of spirit drinks as well as for the protection of geographical indications . it should also set out rules on the use of ethyl alcohol or distillates of agricultural origin in the production of alcoholic beverages and on the use of the sales denominations of spirit drinks in the presentation and labelling of foodstuffs . ### to ensure a more uniform approach in the legislation on spirit drinks , this regulation should set out clear criteria for the definition , presentation and labelling of spirit drinks as well as for the protection of geographical indications , without prejudice to the varieties of official languages and alphabets in the eu . it should also set out rules on the use of ethyl alcohol or distillates of agricultural origin in the production of alcoholic beverages and on the use of the sales denominations of spirit drinks in the presentation and labelling of foodstuffs .


### procedures for the registration , modification and possible cancellation of union or third country geographical indications in accordance with the trips agreement should be laid down whilst automatically recognising the status of existing protected geographical indications of the union . in view of making procedural rules on geographical indications consistent through all the sectors concerned , such procedures for spirit drinks should be modelled on the more exhaustive and well tested procedures for agricultural products and foodstuffs laid down in regulation no 1151 / 2012 while taking into account specificities of spirit drinks . in order to simplify the registration procedures and to ensure that information for food business operators and consumers is electronically available an electronic register of geographical indications should be established . ### procedures for the registration , modification and possible cancellation of union or third country geographical indications in accordance with the trips agreement should be laid down whilst automatically recognising the status of existing registered geographical indications of the union . in view of making procedural rules on geographical indications consistent through all the sectors concerned , such procedures for spirit drinks should be modelled on the more exhaustive and well tested procedures for agricultural products and foodstuffs laid down in regulation no 1151 / 2012 while taking into account specificities of spirit drinks . in order to simplify the registration procedures and to ensure that information for food business operators and consumers is electronically available a transparent and exhaustive electronic register of geographical indications with the same legal value as annex iii of regulation 110 / 2008 should be established . geographical indications registered under regulation 110 / 2008 should automatically be registered by the commission . the commission should complete the verification of geographical indications contained in annex iii of regulation 110 / 2008 , in accordance with art . 20 of that regulation , before the entry into force of this regulation .


### ‘ product specification’ means a file attached to the application for the protection of a geographical indication setting out the specifications which the spirit drink must comply with ; ### ‘ product specification’ means a file attached to the application for the protection of a geographical indication setting out the specifications which the spirit drink must comply with and corresponding to the ' technical file ' referred in regulation 110 / 2008 ;


### the alcohol used in the production of alcoholic beverages and to dilute or dissolve colours , flavourings or any other authorised additives used in the preparation of alcoholic beverages shall be ethyl alcohol of agricultural origin . ### the alcohol used in the production of spirit drinks and to dilute or dissolve colours , flavourings or any other authorised additives used in the preparation of spirit drinks shall be ethyl alcohol of agricultural origin .


### solely be sweetened in accordance with point of annex i and in order to round off the final taste of the product . ### solely be sweetened in accordance with point of annex i and in order to round off the final taste of the product . the member states ' own legislation shall be taken into account .


### the marketing of a spirit drink under a particular name and in accordance with uniform technical specifications is economically and technically necessary to protect the interests of consumers and producers ; ### the marketing of a spirit drink under a particular name and in accordance with uniform technical specifications is necessary to protect the interests of consumers and producers ;


### a spirit drink has a significant market share in at least one member state ; ### a spirit drink is present on the market in at least one member state ;


### a maturation period or age may only be specified in the presentation or labelling of a spirit drink where it refers to the youngest alcoholic component and provided that the spirit drink was aged under supervision of the tax authorities of a member state or a supervision affording equivalent guarantees . ### a maturation period or age may only be specified in the presentation or labelling of a spirit drink where it refers to the youngest alcoholic component and provided that all the operations to age the spirit drink took place under supervision of the tax authorities of a member state or supervision affording equivalent guarantees . the commission shall adopt a public register listing the bodies appointed by each member state to supervise ageing processes .


### where the origin of a spirit drink is indicated , it shall correspond to the country or territory of origin in accordance with article 60 of regulation no 952 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council16 . _________________ 16 regulation no 952 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 9 october 2013 laying down the union customs code . ### where the origin of a spirit drink is indicated , it shall correspond to the place or region where the relevant stage in the production process of the finished product took place which conferred on the spirit drink its character and essential definitive qualities .


### in order to take into account evolving consumer demands , technological progress , developments in the relevant international standards and the need to improve the economic conditions of production and marketing , the commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 43 concerning : ### in order to take into account evolving consumer demands , technological progress , developments in the relevant international standards and the need to improve the economic conditions of production and marketing , while ensuring consumer protection and taking into account traditional practices , the commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts supplementing this regulation in accordance with article 43 concerning :


### where no product is placed on the market under the geographical indication for at least seven years . ### where no product is placed on the market under the geographical indication for at least seven consecutive years .


### member states shall be responsible for checks on spirit drinks . they shall take the measures necessary to ensure compliance with this regulation and designate the competent authorities responsible on compliance with this regulation . ### member states shall be responsible for checks on spirit drinks , in accordance with regulation 2017 / 625 . they shall take the measures necessary to ensure compliance with this regulation and designate the competent authorities responsible on compliance with this regulation .


### to avoid that markings are easily erased and to clarify on which components the marking should be affixed , common union rules on marking should be introduced . ### to avoid that markings are easily erased and to clarify that markings should be affixed on all essential components of a firearm , common union rules on marking should be introduced .


### member states shall ensure that any firearm or part placed on the market has been marked and registered in compliance with this directive . ### member states shall ensure that all the essential components of any firearm placed on the market have been marked and registered in compliance with this directive .


### furthermore , member states shall ensure , at the time of transfer of a firearm from government stocks to permanent civilian use , the unique marking permitting identification of the transferring government . ### furthermore , member states shall ensure , at the time of transfer of a firearm or any of its essential components from government stocks to permanent civilian use , the unique marking permitting identification of the transferring government .


### this filing system shall record each firearm ' s type , make , model , calibre and serial number , as well as the names and addresses of the supplier and the person acquiring or possessing the firearm . the record of firearms , including deactivated firearms , shall be maintained until destruction of the firearm has been certified by the competent authorities . ### this filing system shall record each firearm ' s type , essential components , make , model , calibre and serial number , as well as the names and addresses of the supplier and the person acquiring or possessing the firearm . the record of firearms , including deactivated firearms , shall be maintained until destruction of the firearm has been certified by the competent authorities .


### member states shall make arrangements for the deactivation of firearms to be verified by a competent authority in order to ensure that the modifications made to a firearm render it irreversibly inoperable . member states shall , in the context of this verification , provide for the issuance of a certificate or record attesting to the deactivation of the firearm or the apposition of a clearly visible mark to that effect on the firearm . ### member states shall make arrangements for the deactivation of firearms to be verified by a competent authority in order to ensure that the modifications made to a firearm render it irreversibly inoperable . member states shall , in the context of this verification , provide for the issuance of a certificate attesting to the deactivation of the firearm and the apposition of a clearly visible mark to that effect on each essential component of the deactivated firearm .


### directive 2013 / 32 / eu sets out common criteria for the designation of safe third countries of origin at national level . however , only certain member states have designated in their national law safe countries of origin , which means that not all member states currently can make use of the related procedural facilities provided for in directive 2013 / 32 / eu . in addition , due to existing divergences between the national lists of safe countries of origin that have been adopted by the member states , which could result from differences in the assessment of the safety of certain third countries or from differences in the nature of the flows of third country nationals they are facing , the concept of safe country of origin as defined in directive 2013 / 32 / eu is currently not always applied by the member states in respect of the same third countries . ### directive 2013 / 32 / eu sets out common criteria for the designation of safe third countries of origin at national level . however , only certain member states have designated in their national law safe countries of origin , which means that not all member states currently can make use of the related procedural modalities provided for in directive 2013 / 32 / eu . in addition , due to existing divergences between the national lists of safe countries of origin that have been adopted by the member states , which could result from differences in the assessment of the safety of certain third countries or from differences in the nature of the flows of third country nationals they are facing , the concept of safe country of origin as defined in directive 2013 / 32 / eu is currently not always applied by the member states in respect of the same third countries .


### in light of the very sharp increase that has been experienced since 2014 in the number of applications for international protection made in the union and the resulting unprecedented pressure on member states’ asylum systems the union acknowledged the need to strengthen the application of the safe country of origin provisions of directive 2013 / 32 / eu , as an essential tool to support the swift processing of applications that are likely to be unfounded . in particular , in its conclusions of 25 and 26 june 2015 , the european council referred , in relation to the need to accelerate the treatment of asylum applications , to the intention of the commission as set out in its communication on a european agenda on migration8 to strengthen these provisions , including the possible establishment of an eu common list of safe countries of origin . moreover , the justice and home affairs council in its conclusions on safe countries of origin of 20 july 2015 welcomed the intention of the commission to strengthen the safe countries of origin provisions in directive 2013 / 32 / eu , including the possible establishment of an eu common list of safe countries of origin . ________________ 8 com 240 final , 13 . 5 . 2015 . ### in light of the very sharp increase that has been experienced since 2014 in the number of applications for international protection made in the union and the resulting unprecedented pressure on member states’ asylum systems the union acknowledged the need to strengthen the application of the safe country of origin provisions of directive 2013 / 32 / eu , as an essential tool to support the swift processing of applications that may be unfounded . in particular , in its conclusions of 25 and 26 june 2015 , the european council referred , in relation to the need to accelerate the treatment of some asylum applications , to the intention of the commission as set out in its communication on a european agenda on migration8 to strengthen these provisions , including the possible establishment of an eu common list of safe countries of origin . moreover , the justice and home affairs council in its conclusions on safe countries of origin of 20 july 2015 welcomed the intention of the commission to strengthen the safe countries of origin provisions in directive 2013 / 32 / eu , including the possible establishment of an eu common list of safe countries of origin . ________________ 8 com 240 final , 13 . 5 . 2015 .


### the commission should regularly review the situation in third countries that are on the eu common list of safe countries of origin . in case of sudden change for the worse in the situation of a third country on the eu common list , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission in respect of suspending the presence of this third country from the eu common list for a period of one year where it considers , on the basis of a substantiated assessment , that the conditions set by directive 2013 / 32 / eu for regarding a third country as safe country of origin are no longer met . for the purpose of this substantiated assessment , the commission should take into consideration a range of sources of information at its disposal including in particular , its annual progress reports for third countries designated as candidate countries by the european council , regular reports from the european external action service and the information from member states , the european asylum support office , the united nations high commissioner for refugees , the council of europe and other relevant international organisations . the commission should be able to extend the suspension of the presence of a third country from the eu common list for a period of maximum one year , where it has proposed an amendment to this regulation in order to remove this third country from the eu common list of safe countries of origin . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level . the commission , when preparing and drawing up delegated acts , should ensure a simultaneous , timely and appropriate transmission of relevant documents to the european parliament and to the council . ### the commission should continuously monitor the situation in third countries that are on the eu common list of safe countries of origin and conduct reviews in this regard at least every six months . in case of sudden change for the worse in the situation of a third country on the eu common list , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission in respect of suspending the presence of this third country from the eu common list for a period of one year where it considers , on the basis of a substantiated assessment , that the conditions set by directive 2013 / 32 / eu for regarding a third country as safe country of origin are no longer met . for the purpose of this substantiated assessment , the commission should take into consideration a range of sources of information at its disposal including in particular , its annual progress reports for third countries designated as candidate countries by the european council , regular reports from the european external action service and the information from member states , the european asylum support office , the united nations high commissioner for refugees , the council of europe and other relevant international organisations . the eu delegations in these countries should be tasked with monitoring for cases of refoulement and immediately report on any . the commission should be able to extend the suspension of the presence of a third country from the eu common list for a period of maximum one year , where it has proposed an amendment to this regulation in order to remove this third country from the eu common list of safe countries of origin . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level . the commission , when preparing and drawing up delegated acts , should ensure a simultaneous , timely and appropriate transmission of relevant documents to the european parliament and to the council .


### the commission should regularly review the situation in third countries that are on the eu common list of safe countries of origin . in case of sudden change for the worse in the situation of a third country on the eu common list , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission in respect of suspending the presence of this third country from the eu common list for a period of one year where it considers , on the basis of a substantiated assessment , that the conditions set by directive 2013 / 32 / eu for regarding a third country as safe country of origin are no longer met . for the purpose of this substantiated assessment , the commission should take into consideration a range of sources of information at its disposal including in particular , its annual progress reports for third countries designated as candidate countries by the european council , regular reports from the european external action service and the information from member states , the european asylum support office , the united nations high commissioner for refugees , the council of europe and other relevant international organisations . the commission should be able to extend the suspension of the presence of a third country from the eu common list for a period of maximum one year , where it has proposed an amendment to this regulation in order to remove this third country from the eu common list of safe countries of origin . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level . the commission , when preparing and drawing up delegated acts , should ensure a simultaneous , timely and appropriate transmission of relevant documents to the european parliament and to the council . ### the commission should regularly review the situation in third countries that are on the eu common list of safe countries of origin . in case of sudden change for the worse in the situation of a third country on the eu common list , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission in respect of suspending the presence of this third country from the eu common list for a period of one year where it considers , on the basis of a substantiated assessment , that the conditions set by directive 2013 / 32 / eu for regarding a third country as safe country of origin are no longer met . for the purpose of this substantiated assessment , the commission should take into consideration a range of sources of information at its disposal including in particular , its annual progress reports for third countries designated as candidate countries by the european council , regular reports from the european external action service and the information from member states , the european asylum support office , the united nations high commissioner for refugees , the council of europe , civil society groups and other relevant international organisations . the commission should be able to extend the suspension of the presence of a third country from the eu common list for a period of maximum one year , where it has proposed an amendment to this regulation in order to remove this third country from the eu common list of safe countries of origin . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level . the commission , when preparing and drawing up delegated acts , should ensure a simultaneous , timely and appropriate transmission of relevant documents to the european parliament and to the council . the commission must be able to respond swiftly and effectively to humanitarian crises , in keeping with the union ' s commitments to third countries and refugees .


### the commission should regularly review the situation in third countries that are on the eu common list of safe countries of origin . in case of sudden change for the worse in the situation of a third country on the eu common list , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission in respect of suspending the presence of this third country from the eu common list for a period of one year where it considers , on the basis of a substantiated assessment , that the conditions set by directive 2013 / 32 / eu for regarding a third country as safe country of origin are no longer met . for the purpose of this substantiated assessment , the commission should take into consideration a range of sources of information at its disposal including in particular , its annual progress reports for third countries designated as candidate countries by the european council , regular reports from the european external action service and the information from member states , the european asylum support office , the united nations high commissioner for refugees , the council of europe and other relevant international organisations . the commission should be able to extend the suspension of the presence of a third country from the eu common list for a period of maximum one year , where it has proposed an amendment to this regulation in order to remove this third country from the eu common list of safe countries of origin . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level . the commission , when preparing and drawing up delegated acts , should ensure a simultaneous , timely and appropriate transmission of relevant documents to the european parliament and to the council . ### the commission should continually review the situation in third countries that are on the eu common list of safe countries of origin . in case of sudden change for the worse or systematic breach to the rule of law or human rights violations including discrimination in a third country on the eu common list , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission in respect of suspending the presence of this third country from the eu common list for a period of one year where it considers , on the basis of a substantiated assessment , that the conditions set by directive 2013 / 32 / eu for regarding a third country as safe country of origin are no longer met . for the purpose of this substantiated assessment , the commission should take into consideration a range of sources of information at its disposal including in particular , its annual progress reports for third countries designated as candidate countries by the european council , regular reports from the european external action service and the information from member states , the european asylum support office , the united nations high commissioner for refugees , the council of europe and other relevant international organisations , and national or international non - governmental organisations . the commission should be able to extend the suspension of the presence of a third country from the eu common list for a period of maximum one year , where it has proposed an amendment to this regulation in order to remove this third country from the eu common list of safe countries of origin . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations with the european external action service and the information from member states , the european asylum support office , the united nations high commissioner for refugees , the council of europe and other relevant international organisations , and national or international non - governmental organisations during its preparatory work , including at expert level . the commission , when preparing and drawing up delegated acts , should ensure a simultaneous , timely and appropriate transmission of relevant documents to the european parliament and to the council .


### based on a range of sources of information , including in particular reporting from the eeas and information from member states , easo , unhcr , the council of europe and other relevant international organisations , a number of third countries are considered to qualify as safe countries of origin . ### based on a range of sources of information , including in particular reporting from the eeas and information from member states , easo , unhcr , the council of europe and other relevant international organisations , and national or international non - governmental organisations , a number of third countries are considered to qualify as safe countries of origin .


### this regulation establishes an eu common list of third countries which shall be regarded as safe countries of origin within the meaning of directive 2013 / 32 / eu . ### this regulation establishes an eu common list of third countries which shall be regarded as safe countries of origin within the meaning of directive 2013 / 32 / eu . when seeking international protection , nationals of third countries that are on the eu common list of safe countries of origin established by this regulation shall benefit from all relevant procedural guarantees and safeguards provided for in directive 2013 / 32 / eu .


### third countries listed in annex i to this regulation are safe countries of origin . ### third countries listed in annex i to this regulation are safe countries of origin depending on the applicant ' s individual circumstances .


### the commission shall regularly review the situation in third countries that are on the eu common list of safe countries of origin , based on a range of sources of information , including in particular regular reporting from the eeas and information from member states , easo , unhcr , the council of europe and other relevant international organisations . ### the commission shall review the situation in third countries that are on the eu common list of safe countries of origin twice a year , based on a range of sources of information , including in particular regular reporting from the eeas and the union delegations in these countries , as well as information from member states , easo , unhcr , fra , the council of europe and other relevant international organisations . it shall keep the european parliament properly informed , in a timely manner .