### 6. believes that the conference on the future of europe should seek ways of involving serbian representatives; ### 6. believes that the conference on the future of europe should seek ways of involving serbian representatives , both on the level of government and on the level of the civil society;


### 7. takes note of the conclusions of the final report of the osce/odihr special election assessment mission that the 21 june 2020 parliamentary elections were administered efficiently but that the dominance of the ruling party , including in the media , was of concern; calls on the authorities to address fully all odihr recommendations well ahead of the next elections; ### 7. takes note of the conclusions of the final report of the osce/odihr special election assessment mission that the 21 june 2020 parliamentary elections were administered efficiently but that the dominance of the ruling party , including in the media , was of concern; takes note that the long-term trends of pressures on voters , media bias and blurring of the lines between the activities of the state officials and partisan campaigning , including in the case of the president of the republic , continued during this election cycle; expresses concern about allegations of irregular registration for the june 2020 elections and calls on the authorities to investigate this matter; calls on the authorities to fully and promptly address all odihr recommendations well ahead of the next elections; stresses that the domestic civil society organisations with an expertise in electoral conditions should remain involved in the process of addressing the odihr recommendations;


### 9. welcomes the establishment of the inter-party dialogue (ipd) facilitated by the european parliament and the initial measures taken by the serbian authorities and the parliamentary majority to improve electoral conditions; calls for further implementation of all commitments undertaken in the framework of the ipd; ### 9. welcomes the establishment of the inter-party dialogue (ipd) facilitated by the european parliament and the initial measures taken by the serbian authorities and the parliamentary majority to improve electoral conditions; calls for further implementation of all commitments undertaken in the framework of the ipd; notes with concern that , in the months leading up to the elections , the ruling party changed elements of electoral system , notably the electoral threshold , in a process that lacked public discussion , transparency , inclusiveness and which was not part of the ipd framework;


### 12. urges serbia to deliver convincing results , including a sustainable track record with effective investigations in areas of concern such as the judiciary , freedom of expression and the fight against corruption and organised crime; reiterates its call for justice from 2018 with regard to the unlawful demolition of private property in belgrade; ### 12. urges serbia to deliver convincing results , including a sustainable track record with effective investigations in areas of concern such as the judiciary , freedom of expression and the fight against corruption and organised crime , especially in cases with the high level of public interest , including the cases of krušik , jovanjica and telekom srbija; reiterates its call for justice from 2018 with regard to the unlawful demolition of private property in belgrade neighbourhood savamala;


### 13. urges the serbian parliament to adopt constitutional reforms aimed at strengthening the independence of the judiciary; ### 13. regrets that the previous serbian parliament failed to adopt constitutional reforms aimed at strengthening the independence of the judiciary; recommends to adopt the constitutional reforms in the next parliamentary term due to the lack of representativeness of the current parliament;


### 14. welcomes improvements to the practices and procedures of the national assembly; underlines that the quality of the legislative process still needs to be improved by increasing transparency and social dialogue and ensuring that independent regulatory bodies are empowered to exercise their oversight roles effectively; ### 14. welcomes changes made in the functioning of the national assembly towards reinstating the practices and procedures and complying with the rules of procedure; regrets that the overall parliamentary oversight of the executive has remained rather formalistic; underlines that further substantive reforms in the procedure and practices are necessary to improve the quality of the legislative process , ensure effective parliamentary oversight and put a stop on systemic degradation of the national assembly; stresses that abusive language , intimidation and slandering campaigns against political opponents used by mps in the plenary of the national assembly represent the breach of democratic practice and fundamental democratic values that should be strongly condemned and sanctioned in line with the rules of procedure; calls for effective cooperation with independent and regulatory bodies and increased engagement of the national assembly in oversight and control of the government and administration; calls for substantive engagement of national assembly in the process of serbia's eu accession negotiations process in line with the resolution on the role of the national assembly and principles in negotiations on serbia's accession to the eu adopted in 2013;underlines that the quality of the legislative process still needs to be improved by increasing transparency and social dialogue and ensuring that independent regulatory bodies are empowered to exercise their oversight roles effectively; notes with concern the lack of transparency around the commissioner for equality’s reappointment process;


### 16. regrets the lack of progress on media freedom , abusive language , intimidation and even hate speech; urges serbian authorities to take immediate measures to guarantee freedom of expression and media independence; ### 16. regrets the lack of progress on media freedom , abusive language , intimidation and even hate speech , including from the members of the ruling parties , whose responsibility to act with respect towards all the representatives of the media is the highest in this regard; urges serbian authorities to take immediate measures to guarantee freedom of expression and media independence;


### 17. notes that the legal and institutional framework for upholding human rights is broadly in place and calls for its more effective implementation , with particular regard to the most vulnerable groups in society , including national minorities , in the areas of education , use of minority languages , adequate representation in public administration and the judiciary; ### 17. notes that the legal and institutional framework for upholding human rights is broadly in place and calls for its more effective implementation , with particular regard to the most vulnerable groups in society , such as national minorities , including roma community , in the areas of education , health , employment , housing , use of minority languages , adequate representation in public administration and the judiciary;


### 18. takes note of serbia’s efforts to fight violence against women and children and domestic violence; stresses , however , that implementation and improvements are needed; ### 18. notes with concern the high rate of women and children victims of violence and domestic violence; takes notes of serbia’s efforts to fight violence against women and children and domestic violence; urges , however , that implementation and improvements are needed;


### 19. underlines the need for protection of lgbti rights; calls for more adequate responses from the authorities to hate speech and hate-motivated crimes; ### 19. underlines the need for protection of lgbti rights; calls for more adequate responses from the authorities to hate speech and hate-motivated crimes; stresses the importance for all institutions to support the preparation of europride 2022 and ensure the safety of all participants;


### 20. commends the strong female representation in the new government; welcomes the representation of national minorities in the parliament; ### 20. commends the strong female representation in the new government , in the hope that it will lead to the meaningful and substantive promotion of the human rights and political liberties not only of women but also of other vulnerable groups; welcomes the representation of national minorities in the parliament;


### 21. welcomes serbia’s engagement in regional cooperation initiatives; encourages serbia to sustain its efforts at all levels aimed at reconciliation and strengthening good neighbourly relations; ### 21. takes note of serbia’s engagement in regional cooperation initiatives , despite lack on tangible positive developments; encourages serbia to sustain and advance its efforts at all levels aimed at reconciliation and strengthening good neighbourly relations; invites serbia to fully implement bilateral agreements with neighbouring countries and to improve the resolution of outstanding issues with its neighbours , in particular border demarcation , succession , the return of cultural property and the opening archives of yugoslavia;


### 22. stresses that the normalisation of relations between serbia and kosovo is a priority and a precondition for eu accession; calls for active and constructive engagement in the eu-facilitated dialogue led by the eu special representative seeking a comprehensive and legally binding agreement , in accordance with international law; reiterates its call to move forward with the full implementation , in good faith and in a timely manner , of all the agreements already reached; ### 22. stresses that the normalisation of relations between serbia and kosovo is a priority and a precondition for eu accession; calls for active and constructive engagement in the eu-facilitated dialogue led by the eu special representative seeking a comprehensive and legally binding agreement , in accordance with international law; reiterates its call to move forward with the full implementation , in good faith and in a timely manner , of all the agreements already reached; reiterates its call to the authorities to refrain from using inflammatory language towards the citizens of kosovo of albanian ethnicity;


### 24. stresses the importance of regional cooperation on war crimes and missing persons , including of recognising and respecting court verdicts on war crimes , rejecting hate speech and the glorification of war criminals , and supporting domestic prosecutors in bringing perpetrators to justice; ### 24. stresses the importance of regional cooperation on war crimes and missing persons , including of recognising and respecting court verdicts on war crimes , rejecting hate speech and the glorification of war criminals , and supporting domestic prosecutors in bringing perpetrators to justice; calls on serbian authorities to adopt and implement the measures that would address and help resolve these recurring issues;


### 27. calls on serbia to increase the sustainability of its energy sector by diversifying its energy sources and moving towards renewables while at the same time adopting the necessary measures to preserve and protect environmentally sensitive areas; ### 27. calls on serbia to increase the sustainability of its energy sector by diversifying its energy sources and moving towards renewables and less polluting fuels to ensure compliance with its indicative trajectory while at the same time removing all non-compliant coal subsidies and converting the existing coal-based or petroleum products based district heating into a high efficiency cogeneration-and renewables-based system ; encourages serbia to step up the monitoring of the implementation and the enforcement of the national emission reduction plan;


### 28. urges the authorities to ensure alignment with eu standards and policy objectives on climate protection and environment , in order to facilitate the transition to a circular economy; encourages serbia to work on regional connectivity and the completion of the regional energy market; ### 28. urges the authorities to ensure alignment with eu standards and policy objectives on climate protection and environment – in particular in light of the sofia declaration on the green agenda for the western balkans – including , but not limited to the introduction of carbon emissions pricing , update of energy efficiency legislation , the development and adoption of an integrated national energy and climate plan , in order to facilitate the transition to a circular economy and adopting the necessary measures to preserve and protect environmentally sensitive areas; encourages serbia to finalise the reforms of the national electricity and gas sectors by ensuring in particular unbundling of the system operators and to work on regional connectivity and the completion of the regional energy market in electricity and natural gas;


### 30. reiterates the importance of alignment with the eu common foreign and security policy (cfsp) , which must progressively become an integral part of serbia’s foreign policy; ### 30. reiterates the importance of alignment with the eu common foreign and security policy (cfsp) , which must progressively become an integral part of serbia’s foreign policy; notes that the alignment rate has been falling in recent years , rather than increasing; notes that the highest government officials continue to make occasional statements that call into question serbia’s foreign policy orientation;


### 34. takes note of serbia’s decision to sign a free trade agreement with the eurasian economic union in october 2019; expects serbia , however , to align with eu trade policy; ### 34. takes note of serbia’s decision to sign a free trade agreement with the eurasian economic union in october 2019; expects serbia , however , to align with eu trade policy; regrets that serbia is still not a member of the world trade organisation;


### 36. expresses concern over serbia’s increasing dependence on defence equipment and technologies from the people’s republic of china and the insufficient transparency of the security sector’s public procurement practices; continues to be concerned about serbia’s close political and military cooperation with russia; ### 36. expresses concern over serbia’s increasing dependence on defence equipment and technologies from the people’s republic of china , including a mass surveillance system of cameras in belgrade , and the insufficient transparency of the security sector’s public procurement practices; continues to be concerned about serbia’s close political and military cooperation with russia;


### 38. calls on the council to fine-tune both incentives and conditionality in the future instrument for pre-accession assistance (ipa iii); reiterates that the scale of financial assistance should match the goal of serbia’s european perspective; ### 38. calls for the future instrument for pre-accession assistance (ipa iii) to contain both , incentives and conditionality; considers it essential that ipa iii supports further strengthening of the fundamental values and good governance and is discontinued in cases of systemic threats to the union’s interests and values; believes that the principle of the reversibility of the accession process under the renewed methodology should also be clearly reflected in the pre-accession financing; reiterates that the scale of financial assistance should match the goal of kosovo’s european perspective;


### 1. affirms that the global outbreak of the covid-19 pandemic is a game changer in the international environment and a catalyst of change in the global order; ### 1. affirms that the global outbreak of the covid-19 pandemic is a game changer in the international environment and a catalyst of change in the global order; stresses the fundamental importance of strengthening the eu internal resilience for an effective global projection of its multilateralist vision , in line with its values and long-term objectives as enshrined in its global strategy;


### 3. calls on the vice-president of the commission / high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy (vp/hr) to review the 2016 global strategy , reflecting these geopolitical shifts and ensuring that the eu plays its part in defending the rules-based multilateral world order that was created after the second world war; ### 3. calls on the vice-president of the commission / high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy (vp/hr) to review the 2016 global strategy , reflecting these geopolitical shifts , to ensure that the eu plays its part in defending the rules-based multilateral world order that was created after the second world war , and to include democracy support and protection of human rights as a team europe priority , involving the european parliament in this task through its existing democracy support tools and mechanisms;


### 4. notes the geopolitical competition and tensions following the covid-19 outbreak , and recognises that the european union still has to position itself in the new world order in which , alongside the eu , the us , china and russia play a leading role; ### 4. notes with concern that geopolitical competition and tensions have increased around the world following the covid-19 outbreak; recognises that the value-based foreign policy of the european union has a crucial role to play in defence of the multilateral rules-based global order; calls on the international community , including the us , china and russia , to reinforce their collective commitment to multilateralism;


### 6. is worried about the decision of the us to withdraw funding from the world health organization (who) and the general tendency of its president to withdraw the us from the multilateral organisations that were created to establish a rules-based world order; ### 6. condemns the decision of the us to withdraw funding from the world health organization (who) and the general tendency of its president to withdraw the us from the multilateral organisations that were created to establish a rules-based world order;


### 8. notes the strengthening of the people’s republic of china’s worldwide diplomatic efforts following the covid-19 outbreak , seeking to position itself as the dominant global player; ### 8. notes the strengthening of the people’s republic of china’s worldwide diplomatic efforts following the covid-19 outbreak , seeking to position itself as the dominant global player; is therefore concerned about the possible shift of power in the global politics related to change of china’s leadership;


### 9. recognises the emergency contributions provided by china to fight the virus; also recognises , however , a clear geopolitical and geo-economic dimension , bolstered by ‘virus and wolf warrior diplomacy’ and the politicisation of humanitarian assistance; ### 9. recognises the emergency contributions provided by china to fight the virus; condemns however , a clearly hostile geopolitical and geo-economic dimension , bolstered by ‘virus and wolf warrior diplomacy’ and the politicisation of humanitarian assistance; condemns the attempts by china to use this "virus diplomacy" against the eu and to plan a "divide and rule" strategy amongst member states to harm the union;


### 10. is concerned about the lack of transparency related to the chinese reaction to the global outbreak , involving the withholding of information , censorship , the suppression of whistle-blowers and human rights activists , and the projection of power in the region; ### 10. is concerned about the lack of transparency related to the chinese reaction to the global outbreak , involving the withholding of information , its poor communication with the world health organisation censorship , the suppression of whistle-blowers and human rights activists , and the projection of power in the region;


### 10. is concerned about the lack of transparency related to the chinese reaction to the global outbreak , involving the withholding of information , censorship , the suppression of whistle-blowers and human rights activists , and the projection of power in the region; ### 10. is concerned about the lack of transparency related to the chinese reaction to the global outbreak , involving the withholding of information , censorship , the threatening , persecution and forced disappearance of whistle-blowers and human rights activists , and the projection of power in the region;


### 13. calls on the vp/hr to recognise these concerns and simultaneously create an atmosphere of dialogue , engagement and genuine cooperation , based on a new , more assertive strategy in which the eu pushes back when necessary to defend european values; is of the view that , as part of this new strategy , the eu should seek closer collaboration with countries in the region and other democracies; ### 13. calls on the vp/hr to condemn these crimes and to develop a more assertive strategy towards china in which the eu pushes back to defend european values; is of the view that , as part of this new strategy , the eu should seek closer collaboration with countries in the region and other democracies;


### 13. calls on the vp/hr to recognise these concerns and simultaneously create an atmosphere of dialogue , engagement and genuine cooperation , based on a new , more assertive strategy in which the eu pushes back when necessary to defend european values; is of the view that , as part of this new strategy , the eu should seek closer collaboration with countries in the region and other democracies; ### 13. calls on the vp/hr to recognise these concerns and simultaneously create an atmosphere of dialogue , engagement and genuine cooperation (especially regarding the medical supply chains) based on a new , more assertive strategy in which the eu pushes back when necessary to defend european values; is of the view that , as part of this new strategy , the eu should seek closer collaboration with countries in the region and other democracies;


### 14. expresses concern over the structural attempts of the russian federation to undermine eu unity by the intensification of disinformation campaigns; ### 14. expresses concern over the structural attempts of the russian federation to undermine eu unity and european democracies by means of disinformation campaigns and interference in national and eu electoral processes;


### 15. recognises the global security , socio-economic and political risks that could be caused by the consequences of the covid-19 pandemic , and is worried about the fact that the eu’s main international counterparts were prepared to use the crisis to unravel the rules-based world order underpinned by multilateral organisations; ### 15. recognises the global security , socio-economic and political risks that could be caused by the consequences of the covid-19 pandemic , and is worried about the fact that the eu’s main international counterparts were prepared to use the crisis to unravel the rules-based world order underpinned by multilateral organisations; underlines that the disinformation conducted by some foreign countries are aimed at undermining the trust to the processes within the eu; highlights the importance of the flagship project of the european external action service’s east stratcom task force - eu vs. disinfo in the fight with disinformation , propaganda and foreign influence on our geopolitical scene; calls on the appropriate funding for this body during and after the pandemic.


### 16. stresses that the multilateral rules-based world order is vital for global peace , the rule of law and democracy; believes that a geopolitical eu must play a firmer role in defending it and seek ways to de-escalate tensions between powers; ### 16. stresses that the multilateral rules-based world order is vital for global peace , the rule of law and democracy; believes that a geopolitical eu must play a firmer role in defending it and seek ways to de-escalate tensions between powers; calls on the vice-president of the commission / high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy (vp/hr) to draft the “eu road map on multilateralism” which will be a comprehensive plan for the union to maintain multilateral relations;


### 18. believes that the end of the unanimity rule on foreign policy would help the eu to conduct a foreign policy that is more effective and more proactive; ### 18. believes that the end of the unanimity rule on foreign policy would help the eu to conduct a foreign policy that is more effective , more proactive and better suited to respond swiftly to emergency situations in line with the commission's geopolitical ambitions; calls on the council to adopt qualified majority voting for all issues related to cfsp as a matter of urgency; urges the hr/vp to make the greatest possible use of the clauses in the treaties that allow certain decisions on the common foreign and security policy to be adopted by qualified majority voting;


### 18. believes that the end of the unanimity rule on foreign policy would help the eu to conduct a foreign policy that is more effective and more proactive; ### 18. asks the member states to make the eu’s foreign and security policy more effective and proactive by using the rule of qualified majority voting in the council; calls on the member states to speak with a single , strong eu voice in multilateral forums , as this is the only way that the union can play a leading role on the international scene and use its influence to bring about positive changes and better responses to global challenges;


### 19. underlines the important role of the armed forces during the covid-19 pandemic and believes that a more in-depth joint operation and coordination of member states’ armed forces within existing frameworks - such as the european medical command - or within new frameworks - such as military hospital trains - could lead to greater efficiency and contribute to the eu’s preparedness to fight pandemics; recognises the need to review the eu’s security and defence strategies to develop strategic autonomy , to become better prepared and more resilient to the new and hybrid threats and technologies that have made the nature of warfare less conventional and challenge the traditional role of the military , as well as for a future in which russia and china are becoming more assertive; stresses that the future strategic compass on security and defence should reflect these developments and take account of the broader geopolitical implications of covid-19; believes that , given the new political balance and a potential worsening of the international security environment following covid-19 , the eu defence budgets must not be cut; ### 19. underlines the important role of the armed forces during the covid-19 pandemic and welcomes military assistance to civil support operations , notably for the deployment of field hospitals , patient transport , equipment delivery and distribution; believes that a more in-depth joint coordination of member states’ armed forces within existing frameworks - such as the european medical command - or within new frameworks - such as military hospital trains - could lead to greater efficiency and contribute to the eu’s preparedness to fight pandemics; encourages the setting up of european mechanisms aimed at facilitating the cross-border use of military logistical capabilities to face such emergencies , in order to allow for greater coordination , synergy , solidarity and support; supports the eu’s security and defence new initiatives , aiming inter alia at developing the union’s strategic autonomy , to become better prepared and more resilient to the new and hybrid threats and technologies that have made the nature of warfare less conventional and challenge the traditional role of the military , as well as for a future in which russia and china and other players , are becoming more assertive; stresses that the future strategic compass on security and defence which will present a joint threat assessment should reflect these developments and take account of the broader potential geopolitical implications of covid-19; believes that the budget allocated to eu defence initiatives , notably military mobility , which focus on increasing interoperability would be of great added value in case of future crisis , and the european defence fund must meet the eu ambition in the defence area; stresses the need to increase the eu cbrn preparedness ; commands the continuity of the csdp missions and operations despite the very challenging environment ; suggests to assess the budget , planning and equipment of eu csdp missions and operations in the light of the covid-19 lessons learnt;


### 20. calls for the expansion and modernisation of eu communication strategies so that eu action is sufficiently visible both within and beyond the eu; urges the european external action service (eeas) to further strengthen its capacities to counter disinformation , including the creation of a dedicated far-east stratcom task force focused on the disinformation emanating from china , and imposing costs on countries that deliberately spread disinformation to divide and harm the eu and its member states; ### 20. calls for the expansion and modernisation of eu communication strategies so that eu values and action are sufficiently visible both within and beyond the eu; underlines the need for strengthened european strategic autonomy in critical communication infrastructure networks; urges the european external action service (eeas) to further strengthen its capacities to counter disinformation , including the creation of a dedicated far-east stratcom task force focused on the disinformation emanating from china and reinforcing existing structures , including the east stratcom task force , and imposing costs on any state and non-state actors that deliberately spread disinformation to divide and harm the eu and its member states; reaffirms its dedication to developing legislative and non-legislative coordinated action at eu level to counteract disinformation through its special committee on foreign interference in all democratic processes in the european union , including disinformation;


### 20. calls for the expansion and modernisation of eu communication strategies so that eu action is sufficiently visible both within and beyond the eu; urges the european external action service (eeas) to further strengthen its capacities to counter disinformation , including the creation of a dedicated far-east stratcom task force focused on the disinformation emanating from china , and imposing costs on countries that deliberately spread disinformation to divide and harm the eu and its member states; ### 20. calls for the expansion and modernisation of eu strategic communication strategies , based on the promotion of facts about the eu responses and scientific evidence , so that eu action is sufficiently visible both within and beyond the eu; urges the european external action service (eeas) to further strengthen its capacities to proactively counter disinformation , including the creation of a dedicated far-east strat com task force focused on the disinformation emanating from china , and imposing costs on countries that deliberately spread disinformation to divide and harm the eu and its member states;


### 21. stresses that its biggest global consumer market of almost 500 million people gives the eu leverage on the world stage , and believes that a geopolitical commission should use this leverage when other countries are not prepared to comply with the rule of law or international treaties; ### 21. stresses that its biggest global consumer market of almost 500 million people gives the eu leverage on the world stage , and believes that a geopolitical commission should use this leverage when other countries are not prepared to comply with the rule of law or international treaties; reiterates that the credibility of a geopolitical eu on the global stage rests on its internal commitment to european values; insists that the new multiannual financial framework 2021-2027 must fully reflect both the union’s value-driven geopolitical ambitions and its internal adherence to the rule of law , including through a binding rule of law conditionality mechanism;


### 21. stresses that its biggest global consumer market of almost 500 million people gives the eu leverage on the world stage , and believes that a geopolitical commission should use this leverage when other countries are not prepared to comply with the rule of law or international treaties; ### 21. stresses that its biggest global consumer market of almost 500 million people gives the eu leverage on the world stage , and believes that a geopolitical commission should use this leverage , including through its trade policy , when other countries are not complying with the rule of law or international human rights and environmental treaties; insists therefore on the necessity to adopt an eu mandatory due diligence legislation in order for the union to promote fundamental rights through the activity of its companies abroad and to achieve its ambition of global standards setter;


### 22. notes that the covid-19 pandemic has shown the need to reduce dependency on third countries in certain strategic and existential sectors and might prompt diversification of its most critical supply chains; ### 22. notes that the covid-19 pandemic has shown the need to reduce eu's dependency on third countries in certain strategic and existential sectors and might prompt diversification of its most critical supply chains;


### 23. recalls its request for a strong global sanctions regime to address serious human rights violations , which would be the eu equivalent of the so-called magnitsky act; ### 23. recalls its request for the adoption and implementation of a global eu human rights sanctions mechanism as an essential part of the eu existing foreign policy toolbox which would strengthen the eu’s role as a global actor; stresses the importance of allocating sufficient resources to enable its effective implementation; calls for the establishment of an eu-level advisory committee with parliament’s participation;;


### 23. recalls its request for a strong global sanctions regime to address serious human rights violations , which would be the eu equivalent of the so-called magnitsky act; ### 23. recalls its urgent request for a strong global sanctions regime to address serious human rights violations , which would be the eu equivalent of the so-called magnitsky act; calls on the european council to adopt the global eu human rights sanctions mechanism as a decision relating to the union’s strategic interests and objectives under article 22(1) of the treaty on european union;


### 24. underlines the strategic importance of eu engagement and support in its neighbourhood , both in the east and in the south; stresses that the eu must give western balkan countries that are not yet part of the eu a fair chance to join the eu , and that the eu must continue its efforts to invest in the region; ### 24. underlines the strategic importance of eu engagement and support in its neighbourhood , both in the east and in the south; stresses that the eu must give western balkan countries that are not yet part of the eu a fair chance to join the eu , and that the eu must continue its efforts to invest in the region; recalls that eu accession must be conditional on reform commitments and especially on respecting principles of democracy , the rule of law , human rights and fundamental freedoms;


### 27. is of the opinion that the covid-19 crisis has highlighted certain weaknesses of our union and has shown the urgent need for an effective and efficient union; believes that the conference on the future of europe will provide a good platform to move forward in constructing more efficient decision making in eu external policies; is therefore determined to start the conference as soon as possible; ### 27. is of the opinion that the covid-19 crisis has highlighted certain weaknesses of our union and has shown the urgent need for an effective and efficient union; believes that the conference on the future of europe will provide a good platform to move forward in constructing more efficient decision making in eu external policies; is therefore determined to start the conference as soon as possible; welcomes therefore the president charles michel conclusion that ‘it is of utmost importance to increase the strategic autonomy of the union’;


### 24. welcomes the progress made in eu-nato cooperation since the joint declaration in warsaw in 2016; commends the progress made in implementing the common set of proposals of december 2017 , in particular the intensification of eu-nato political dialogue at all levels , as well as the structured dialogue on military mobility , the efforts to ensure greater coherence between the respective defence planning processes , and closer cooperation in countering hybrid threats and disinformation campaigns; calls on the eu and nato to further enhance the mutually reinforcing cooperation and to deepen their strategic partnership; ### 24. welcomes the progress made in eu-nato cooperation since the joint declaration in warsaw in 2016; commends the progress made in implementing the common set of proposals of december 2017 , in particular the intensification of eu-nato political dialogue at all levels , as well as the structured dialogue on military mobility , the efforts to ensure greater coherence between the respective defence planning processes , and closer cooperation in the field of cyber security and defence , and in countering hybrid threats and disinformation campaigns; calls on the eu and nato to further enhance the mutually reinforcing cooperation and to deepen their strategic partnership;


### — having regard to council decision (cfsp) 2019/797 of 17 may 2019 concerning restrictive measures against cyber-attacks threatening the union or its member states1 , ### — having regard to council conclusions on the framework for a joint eu diplomatic response to malicious cyber activities of 19 june 2017 , and the council decision (cfsp) 2019/797 of 17 may 2019 concerning restrictive measures against cyber-attacks threatening the union or its member states1 ,


### 5. encourages political leaders to create a climate of confidence by overcoming the lack of dialogue and expresses its serious concern about the polarised political climate and lack of sustainable cross-party cooperation that continue to hamper the democratic process; ### 5. encourages political leaders to create a climate of confidence by increasing transparency and overcoming the lack of dialogue and expresses its serious concern about the polarised political climate and lack of sustainable cross-party cooperation that continue to hamper the democratic process;


### 11. encourages albania to complete the relevant steps towards re-establishing the constitutional court’s ability to function fully and efficiently , and urges all involved to swiftly conclude the appointment process; ### 11. encourages albania to complete the relevant steps towards re-establishing the constitutional court’s ability to function fully and efficiently , as well as to make sure the appeals court does not stop operating and urges all involved to swiftly conclude the appointment process;


### 12. welcomes the fact that the high court has regained its ability to function and that it has been reviewing more than a thousand cases , and encourages it to make further progress in the appointment of additional judges; ### 12. welcomes the fact that the high court has regained its ability to function and that it has been reviewing more than a thousand cases , and encourages it to make further progress in the appointment of additional judges and to develop a plan to recover its backlog;


### 15. notes the increase in proactive investigations , prosecutions and final convictions targeting illicit wealth and money laundering , leading to the systematic freezing and seizure of criminal assets , and calls for their further intensification; ### 15. notes the increase in proactive investigations , prosecutions and final convictions targeting illicit wealth and money laundering , leading to the systematic freezing and seizure of criminal assets , and calls for their further intensification , in line with the principles of judicial independence , due process and fair trial;


### 18. expresses its support for inclusive policies and calls for progress to be made in adopting measures to effectively protect the fundamental freedoms and rights of all citizens; ### 18. expresses its support for inclusive policies and calls for progress to be made in adopting measures to effectively protect the fundamental freedoms and rights of all citizens , with a special focus on women , children , persons with disabilities , ethnic minorities and lgbtqi+ persons;


### 22. calls for the creation of an effective mechanism for the prevention of gender-based and domestic violence , and for protection and support to be given to its victims , combined with the effective and efficient prosecution of its perpetrators; ### 22. calls for the creation of an effective mechanism for the prevention of gender-based and domestic violence and harassment , exacerbated by the covid-19 pandemic , and for protection and support to be given to its victims , combined with the effective and efficient prosecution of its perpetrators;


### 23. reminds albania of its calls for further improvements to be made in the education and health , and the employment rates and living conditions of roma and other ethnic minorities; ### 23. reminds albania of its calls for further improvements to be made in the education and health , and the employment rates and living conditions of roma and other ethnic minorities; welcomes the 2019 poznan declaration on roma integration within the eu enlargement process , urges the authorities to advance roma integration policies in line with the eu roma strategic framework;


### 23. reminds albania of its calls for further improvements to be made in the education and health , and the employment rates and living conditions of roma and other ethnic minorities; ### 23. reminds albania of its calls to ensure non-discriminatory access to public services and further improvements to be made in the education and health , and the employment rates and living conditions of roma and other ethnic minorities;


### 23. reminds albania of its calls for further improvements to be made in the education and health , and the employment rates and living conditions of roma and other ethnic minorities; ### 23. reminds albania of its calls for further improvements to be made in the education and health , and the employment rates and living conditions of roma , egyptians and other ethnic minorities;


### 24. recalls the importance of measures ensuring the protection of national minorities , including self-identification , the use of languages and property rights; ### 24. recalls the importance of measures ensuring the protection of national minorities , including self-identification , the use of languages and property rights; welcomes in this context the adoption of the law on the population census;


### 25. encourages albania to make further progress on measures consolidating property rights , implementing the law on transitional ownership , and completing the comprehensive land sector reform; ### 25. encourages albania to make further progress on measures consolidating property registration , restitution and compensation rights , implementing the law on transitional ownership , and completing the comprehensive land sector reform;


### 26. welcomes albania’s efforts in promoting tolerance , inter-religious harmony and addressing prejudice and discrimination , including antisemitism; ### 26. welcomes albania’s efforts in promoting tolerance , inter-religious harmony and addressing prejudice and discrimination , including antisemitism , as affirmed by the parliamentary approval of the international holocaust remembrance alliance’s definition of anti-semitism;


### 27. recalls the authorities’ obligation to ensure due process for asylum seekers in compliance with albania’s international obligations , and to properly address the needs of refugees , asylum seekers and migrants; calls for increased capacities to process asylum requests and investigations into the reported cases of breaches of the return procedures; ### 27. recalls the authorities’ obligation to ensure due process for asylum seekers in compliance with albania’s international obligations , and to properly address the needs of refugees , asylum seekers and migrants , while increasing preparedness for potential increases in migratory flows; calls for increased capacities to process asylum requests and investigations into the reported cases of breaches of the return procedures;


### 28. stresses that border protection and the prevention of cross-border crime , including in cooperation with the european border and coast guard agency (frontex) , must be conducted in full respect for fundamental rights; ### 28. stresses that border protection and the prevention of cross-border crime , including in cooperation with the european border and coast guard agency (frontex) , must be conducted in full respect for fundamental rights , enshrined in applicable international and regional laws and principles;


### 29. welcomes the ongoing efforts being made and urges the authorities to take a robust approach in preventing , investigating , prosecuting and punishing human trafficking and the exploitation of its victims , who include children and other vulnerable groups; ### 29. welcomes the ongoing efforts being made and urges the authorities to take a robust approach in preventing , investigating , prosecuting and punishing human trafficking and the exploitation of its victims , who include children and other vulnerable groups , to increase reintegration services and ensure witness protection;


### 30. welcomes the ongoing measures and calls for further progress to be made in considerably reducing the number of unfounded asylum claims by albanian nationals , including the arrivals of unaccompanied minors , in the eu member states; ### 30. welcomes the ongoing measures and calls for further progress to be made in considerably reducing the number of unfounded asylum claims by albanian nationals , including the arrivals of unaccompanied minors , in the eu member states; notes that albania continues to fulfil visa liberalisation benchmarks;


### 31. underlines the need to improve the climate for the functioning of civil society and urges the authorities to ensure meaningful , timely and representative consultations , and to enhance the financial sustainability of the non-governmental sector; ### 31. underlines the need to improve the climate for the functioning of civil society and urges the authorities to ensure meaningful , timely and representative consultations throughout the decision-making at different governance levels and to enhance the legal and fiscal framework , improving the financial sustainability of the non-governmental sector;


### 33. recalls the importance of ensuring quality journalism and media literacy for the functioning of democracy and in tackling disinformation; ### 33. recalls the importance of ensuring quality journalism and media literacy for the functioning of democracy and in tackling disinformation , hate speech and fake-news; stresses the importance of increasing the levels of media literacy in albania;


### 35. expresses grave concern about the proposed measures under the draft media law and welcomes the commitment to adopt amendments only if they are assessed as being fully in line with the venice commission’s recommendations; ### 35. expresses grave concern about the proposed measures under the draft media law and welcomes the commitment to adopt amendments only if they are publicly shared in a consultation process with civil society , journalists and media organisations and assessed as being fully in line with the venice commission’s recommendations;


### 36. encourages the albanian government to prioritise measures aimed at mitigating the socio-economic impact of the covid-19 pandemic , while taking further steps to enhance the representativeness of the social dialogue and to tackle the widespread informal economy; ### 36. encourages the albanian government to prioritise measures aimed at mitigating the socio-economic impact of the covid-19 pandemic , with particular consideration for marginalised and vulnerable groups such as roma , egyptians and the lgbtqi+ community , while taking further steps to enhance the representativeness of the social dialogue and to tackle the widespread informal economy;


### 36. encourages the albanian government to prioritise measures aimed at mitigating the socio-economic impact of the covid-19 pandemic , while taking further steps to enhance the representativeness of the social dialogue and to tackle the widespread informal economy; ### 36. encourages the albanian government to prioritise measures aimed at mitigating the socio-economic impact of the covid-19 pandemic , while taking further steps to improve diversification , competitiveness , and digitalisation , enhance the representativeness of the social dialogue and to tackle the widespread informal economy;


### 37. stresses the need to substantially strengthen social care coverage and improve access to social and healthcare services; ### 37. stresses the need to substantially strengthen social care coverage and improve access to social and healthcare services in order to reduce the risk of poverty and social exclusion;


### 38. calls for the measures addressing the demographic decline and the brain drain to be stepped up through active labour market policies that address skills mismatches and reduce long-term unemployment; ### 38. calls for the measures addressing the demographic decline and the brain drain to be stepped up through active labour market policies that address skills mismatches and reduce long-term unemployment , as well as by addressing problems relating to housing and access to education;


### 38. calls for the measures addressing the demographic decline and the brain drain to be stepped up through active labour market policies that address skills mismatches and reduce long-term unemployment; ### 38. calls for the measures addressing the demographic decline and the brain drain to be stepped up through active labour market policies that address skills mismatches and reduce long-term unemployment , particularly among the youth and the most excluded/marginalised groups;


### 39. welcomes the positive trends in women’s participation in politics , and calls for additional steps to address the gender pay gap and workplace discrimination; ### 39. welcomes the positive trends in women’s participation in politics , and calls for additional steps to address gender imbalances , gender pay gap and workplace discrimination;


### 42. encourages the diversification of energy production , moving from hydropower towards wind and solar sources; urges the authorities to minimise the impact on biodiversity by restricting hydropower development in protected areas; underlines the need to improve both environmental and impact assessments across eco-sensitive sectors and boost the prosecution of environmental crimes; ### 42. encourages the diversification of energy production , moving from hydropower towards wind and solar sources; urges the authorities to minimise the impact on biodiversity by restricting hydropower development in protected areas , in particular the valbona and vjosa rivers; underlines the need to improve both environmental impact assessment and strategic environmental assessment across eco-sensitive sectors and boost the prosecution of environmental crimes; highlights that new renewable energy sources should be supported in a cost-efficient manner;


### 43. urges the authorities to ensure full compliance with the energy community treaty; underlines the contribution of the newly launched trans-adriatic pipeline to regional energy security; ### 43. urges the authorities to ensure full compliance with the energy community treaty; underlines the contribution of the newly launched trans-adriatic pipeline , and upcoming connection of the converted vlora thermal plant , to regional energy security;


### 44. calls for continuing progress in strengthening strategic transport networks in line with the trans-european transport network (ten-t) regulatory framework; ### 44. calls for continuing progress in strengthening strategic transport networks in line with the trans-european transport network (ten-t) regulatory framework and advance work on the albanian sections of the “blue highway“;


### 49. welcomes albania’s ongoing full alignment with the common foreign and security policy decisions and declarations since 2012 and its active contribution to the eu crisis management missions and operations; ### 49. welcomes albania’s ongoing full alignment with the common foreign and security policy decisions and declarations since 2012 and its active contribution to the eu crisis management missions and operations; urges albania to comply with the eu position on the jurisdiction of the international criminal court;


### — having regard to its resolutions on the humanitarian situation in yemen of 25 february 201620 , 15 june 201721 and 30 november 201722 , ### — having regard to its resolutions on the humanitarian situation in yemen of 25 february 201620 , 15 june 201721 and 30 november 201722 , on the killing of journalist jamal khashoggi in the saudi consulate in istanbul of 25 october 2018; on egypt of 24 october 2019 , on the uae , notably the situation of human rights defender ahmed mansoor of 4 october 2018 ,


### 3. deplores the fact that member states use very different information in order to generate data on the value of licences , which renders the annual report considerably less usable as a comparative data set and serves to diminish its transparency and accountability before citizens and parliaments; urges france , in particular , to refrain from submitting data on the value of licences at pre-contract stage and broad values for global licences , which undermines the comparability of the report; ### 3. deplores the fact that member states use very different information in order to generate data on the value of licences , which renders the annual report considerably less consistent and usable as a comparative data set and serves to diminish its transparency and accountability before citizens and parliaments; urges france , in particular , to refrain from submitting data on the value of licences at pre-contract stage and broad values for global licences , which undermines the comparability of the report;


### 17. notes that under the epf , member states and the european external action service (eeas) will work on creating an eu-level system for arms transfers to third countries; ### 17. notes that under the epf , member states and the european external action service (eeas) will work on creating an eu-level system for arms transfers to third countries; asks for a detailed list of equipment transferred to third countries under the facility to be published;


### a) to add the following additional categories in a revised reporting template in order to implement the recent september 2019 council conclusions: the exact type of weapon and the quantity exported , denomination of the munitions , the lot size and the specific end-user , revoked licences , and the value and duration of contracts regarding post-delivery services such as training and maintenance; ### a) to add the following additional categories in a revised reporting template in order to implement the recent september 2019 council conclusions: the exact type of weapon and the quantity exported , denomination of the munitions , the lot size and the specific end-user , revoked licences , and the value and duration of contracts regarding post-delivery services such as training and maintenance; to align the eu definition of small arms with the broader un definition so that , for example , pistols and sniper rifles are also included in this category;


### c) to clarify definitions such as licensed value and actual exports so as to facilitate the comparability of data between member states; ### c) to clarify definitions such as licensed value and actual exports so as to facilitate the comparability of data between member states; licences for production in third countries should no longer be granted if this would allow the eight criteria of the common position or other eu arms export directives to be circumvented;


### b) to follow the example of the uk in this regard by publishing risk assessments in the annual reports; ### b) to follow the example of the uk in this regard by publishing risk assessments in the annual reports; and to publish all final arms export licences on the internet; the validity of export licences should be limited to two years in order to be able to react to changing political situations;


### c) to undertake a joint assessment of country situations or potential export recipients in the light of the principles and criteria of the common position within the framework of the cfsp and in consultation with external stakeholders , including parliament; ### c) to undertake a joint assessment of country situations or potential export recipients in the light of the principles and criteria of the common position within the framework of the cfsp and in consultation with external stakeholders , including parliament; to regularly update list of third countries complying with the criteria as led down in the common position;


### 22. believes that the eu institutions should organise peer reviews with a view to encouraging authorities to share best practices on the collection and processing of data , fostering a better understanding of different national approaches , identifying differences as regards the interpretation of the eight criteria , and discussing ways to improve harmonisation; ### 22. believes that the eu institutions should organise peer reviews with a view to encouraging authorities to share best practices on the collection and processing of data , fostering a better understanding of different national approaches , identifying differences as regards the interpretation of the eight criteria , and discussing ways to improve harmonisation and consistency;


### 23. strongly believes that a much higher level of convergence as regards the strict application of the criteria will strengthen human rights , international law and the cfsp , and bolster the eu’s strategic security interests and strategic autonomy; ### 23. strongly believes that a more consistent implementation of the eu common position is essential for the eu credibility as a value-based global actor and that much higher level of convergence as regards the strict application of the criteria will strengthen human rights , international law and the cfsp , and bolster the eu’s strategic security interests and strategic autonomy;


### 24. stresses that effective end-use controls are crucial for a responsible export policy and for lowering the risk of diversion in particular; calls on the council , the member states , the eeas and the commission to set up a large-scale training and capacity-building programme for national and eu officials on arms export controls; stresses the need to use eu funding to ensure that sufficient staff resources are available at national and eu levels and at delegations and embassies in importing countries for the purposes of implementing viable end-use controls; calls on the eeas and coarm to report on itrace any identified diversion of eu-origin goods as part of the annual report; ### 24. stresses that effective end-use controls are crucial for a responsible export policy and for lowering the risk of diversion in particular; calls on the council , the member states , the eeas and the commission to set up a large-scale training and capacity-building programme for national and eu officials on arms export controls; stresses the need to use eu funding to ensure that sufficient staff resources are available at national and eu levels and at delegations and embassies in importing countries for the purposes of implementing viable risk assessments , end-use controls and post-shipment verifications; calls on the eeas and coarm to report on itrace any identified diversion of eu-origin goods as part of the annual report;


### 25. believes that the increasing europeanisation of arms production , the recent council conclusions on convergence in arms exports and the establishment of the epf should be complemented by a mechanism for eu-level monitoring and control based on strict compliance with the eight criteria; ### 25. believes that the increasing europeanisation of arms production , the recent council conclusions on convergence in arms exports and the establishment of the epf should be complemented by a mechanism for eu-level monitoring and control based on strict compliance with the eight criteria; calls on steps to be taken for the setting-up of an eu mechanism of sanctions for member states infringing the common position;


### 26. considers that regular consultations with national parliaments , arms export control authorities , industry associations and civil society are central to meaningful transparency; calls on coarm to enhance dialogue with civil society and consultations with parliament and arms export control authorities; encourages civil society and academia to exercise independent scrutiny of the arms trade and calls on the member states and the eeas to support such activities , including by financial means; ### 26. considers that regular consultations with the european parliament , national parliaments , arms export control authorities , industry associations and civil society are central to meaningful transparency; calls on national parliaments to exchange best reporting and oversight practices in order to enhance the scrutinising role of all national parliaments in the decisions on arms control exports; calls on coarm to enhance dialogue with civil society and consultations with parliament and arms export control authorities; encourages civil society and academia to exercise independent scrutiny of the arms trade and calls on the member states and the eeas to support such activities , including by financial means;


### b. whereas in the context of the covid-19 pandemic , democracy , human rights and fundamental freedoms have deteriorated in many parts of the world , disinformation campaigns and cyberattacks have increased , and isolationist trends and rivalry – rather than multilateral cooperation; ### b. whereas in the context of the covid-19 pandemic , democracy , human rights and fundamental freedoms have deteriorated in many parts of the world , disinformation campaigns and cyberattacks have increased , isolationist and anti-globalist trends and rivalry – rather than multilateral cooperation;


### q. whereas the treaty on the prohibition of nuclear weapons (tpnw) was adopted in 2017 by 122 states; ### q. whereas the treaty on the prohibition of nuclear weapons (tpnw) was adopted in 2017 by 122 states; and by january 2020 the treaty was signed by 80 states and ratified by 32 states;


### reaffirm the eu’s full support to the npt and its three mutually reinforcing pillars of non-proliferation , disarmament and peaceful use of nuclear energy , and confirm the validity of the previous step-by-step approach based on commitments made during past review processes , in particular in 1995 , 2000 and 2010; stress that a balanced approach between the three pillars is essential for a positive outcome of the 2020 review conference , and for the adoption of concrete , effective and consensual measures that would allow for previous commitments to be built on; ### reaffirm the eu’s full support to the npt and its three mutually reinforcing pillars of non-proliferation , disarmament and peaceful use of nuclear energy , and confirm the validity of the previous step-by-step approach based on commitments made during past review processes , in particular in 1995 , 2000 and 2010; stress that a balanced approach between the three pillars is essential for a positive outcome of the 2020 review conference , and for the adoption of concrete , effective and consensual measures that would allow for previous commitments to be built on; stress the important role of the eu in facilitating peace-oriented policies and promoting international stability;


### highlight the contribution made by the nato states in fulfilling their commitments under the npt as regards reducing the stock of nuclear weapons by 95 % since the end of the cold war , de-targeting them , reducing their alert status and downgrading their role in defence; call on nato to pursue its efforts in further reducing nuclear weapons in full compliance with the npt , based on the step-by-step approach that promotes international stability and security; ### highlight the contribution made by the nato states in fulfilling their commitments under the npt as regards reducing the stock of nuclear weapons by 95 % since the end of the cold war , de-targeting them , reducing their alert status and downgrading their role in defence; call on nato and other npt signatory states to pursue their efforts in further reducing nuclear weapons in full compliance with the npt , based on the step-by-step approach that promotes international stability and security;


### confirm the inalienable right of the npt parties to the peaceful use of nuclear energy to meet their long-term energy requirements , in conformity with the npt provisions; work with countries wishing to develop capacities in this area towards a responsible use of nuclear energy for solely peaceful purposes , provided all safety , security and non-proliferation conditions are met; recall in particular that the needs of developing countries should be duly taken into account; encourage the state parties to use the opportunity of the 2020 review process to further deepen the debate on the peaceful use of nuclear energy; recognise the role and value of the iaea and its safeguard system in implementing the npt and in strengthening the nuclear security framework; ### deleted


### (aa) reaffirm the eu’s continuing commitment to the jcpoa as the best possible means for obtaining assurances of an exclusively peaceful use of nuclear energy by iran , and as a vital tool for enhancing stability and security in the middle east; reiterate the eu’s regret over the withdrawal by the us from the jcpoa and the re-impositions of sanctions; call on iran to return to full compliance with its nuclear-related commitments under the jcpoa and the npt; ### (aa) reaffirm the eu’s continuing commitment to the jcpoa as the best possible means for obtaining assurances of an exclusively peaceful use of nuclear energy by iran , and as a vital tool for enhancing stability and security in the middle east; continue emphasising the eu’s important role in finding a way forwards when it comes to securing the nuclear agreement; reiterate the eu’s regret over the withdrawal by the us from the jcpoa and the re-impositions of sanctions; call on iran to return to full compliance with its nuclear-related commitments under the jcpoa and the npt;


### 4. welcomes the peaceful and orderly conduct of the early legislative elections of 6 october 2019; stresses the importance of addressing all the shortcomings identified and recommendations made by the eueom; ### 4. welcomes the peaceful and orderly conduct of the early legislative elections of 6 october 2019; stresses the importance of addressing all the shortcomings identified and recommendations made by the eueom; regrets that kosovo continues to struggle with political instability following the elections , resulting in a third government in less than a year; notes that the current government has lost its majority resulting in a lack of legislative initiatives by the assembly;


### 5. welcomes the commission’s statement of 26 august 2020 confirming its assessment of kosovo’s ability to benefit from the visa liberalisation regime , and calls on the council to urgently proceed with the adoption of a visa-free regime for the citizens of kosovo; ### 5. welcomes the commission’s statement of 26 august 2020 confirming its assessment of kosovo’s ability to benefit from the visa liberalisation regime , and calls on the council to urgently proceed with the adoption of a visa-free regime for the citizens of kosovo; regrets that during the german eu presidency of 2020 the council did not manage to adopt the visa liberalisation for the citizens of kosovo;


### 11. calls on kosovo to improve its regulatory measures for the freezing , confiscation and recovery of assets , and for final convictions in cases of high-level corruption , organised and financial crime , money laundering and terrorist financing; ### 11. calls on kosovo to improve its regulatory measures for the freezing , confiscation and recovery of assets , and for final convictions in cases of high-level corruption , organised and financial crime , money laundering and terrorist financing; expects more progress to be made in strengthening the track record on the investigation and prosecution of high-level corruption and cases of organised crime;


### 27. commends the good regional cooperation between kosovo and serbia in the fight against the spread of the covid-19 pandemic , including cooperation between the mayors of mitrovica and communication between ministers of health; ### 27. commends the good regional cooperation between kosovo and serbia in the fight against the spread of the covid-19 pandemic , including cooperation between the mayors of mitrovica and communication between ministers of health; regrets , however , the poor handling of the pandemic by kosovo authorities;


### 29. calls for more efforts in dealing with the requests of family members of missing persons , the opening of wartime archives , and for information to be revealed about people who are still listed as missing from the 1998-99 kosovo war; ### 29. calls for more efforts in dealing with the requests of family members of missing persons , the opening of wartime archives , and for information to be revealed about people who are still listed as missing from the 1998-99 kosovo war; calls on serbia to investigate the remains of three bodies that have been exhumed so far during searches in a mass grave in kizevak village of raska municipality near kosovo border discovered in november 2020 that are believed to be kosovo albanians;


### 31. stresses the need for urgent implementation of active labour market policies , including upskilling and on-the-job training , in order to increase employment of vulnerable groups; ### 31. stresses the need for urgent implementation of active labour market policies , including upskilling , vocational education training and on-the-job training , in order to increase employment of vulnerable groups;


### b. whereas the country is maintaining a steady pace on the rule of law and functioning of democratic institutions and procedures; ### b. whereas the country is maintaining a steady pace in advancing eu reforms , in particular in key areas such as the rule of law , fight against corruption and organised crime , intelligent services , public administration and functioning of democratic institutions and procedures;


### 1. welcomes north macedonia’s clear strategic orientation and commitment to european integration , as manifested by continued implementation of accession-related reforms; ### 1. welcomes north macedonia’s clear strategic orientation and commitment to eu integration , as manifested by continued implementation of accession-related reforms;


### 2. urges the authorities to sustain consensual efforts to strengthen democratic consolidation and the transformation process , fight against corruption , and restore the rule of law , while improving the climate for media and civil society; ### 2. urges the authorities to sustain consensual efforts to strengthen democracy and the transformation process , the continued fight against corruption , and to strengthen the rule of law , while improving the climate for media and civil society;


### 4. commends the steady steps in following up on the ‘urgent reform priorities’ and recommendations of the venice commission and the senior experts’ group on systemic rule of law issues; ### 4. commends the progress achieved in addressing the ‘urgent reform priorities’ and following up on the recommendations of the venice commission and the senior experts’ group on systemic rule of law issues;


### 7. urges the completion of measures to ensure judicial and prosecutorial professionalism , independence , integrity and accountability , including through an efficient implementation of codes of ethics and of the landmark law on the public prosecutor’s office , ensuring sustainable solutions for cases related to the special prosecutor’s office , and accountability for crimes stemming from the large-scale illegal wiretapping case; ### 7. urges the implementation of measures to ensure judicial and prosecutorial professionalism , independence , integrity and accountability , including through an efficient implementation of codes of ethics and of the landmark law on the public prosecutor’s office , ensuring sustainable solution for the case of the special prosecutor’s office , and accountability for crimes stemming from the large-scale illegal wiretapping case;


### 8. encourages the conclusion of institutional reforms and the restructuring of the security and intelligence sectors; ### 8. encourages the conclusion of institutional reforms and the implementation of the ongoing reforms in the security and intelligence sectors;


### 10. welcomes the positive engagement of the country’s main political forces , enabling adoption of key legislation and a smooth electoral process; ### 10. welcomes the positive engagement of the country’s main political forces , enabling adoption of key legislation and a smooth electoral process; takes note of the conclusions of the final report of the osce/odihr special election assessment mission that the 15 july 2020 parliamentary elections were well administered amid necessary covid-19 related adjustments but persistent shortcomings and instability in the legal framework underlined the need for comprehensive reform in advance of future elections;


### 14. underlines the need to complete a timely , inclusive and comprehensive review of the electoral code; ### 14. underlines the need to complete a timely , inclusive and comprehensive review of the electoral legislation , by addressing the remaining recommendations of the osce/odihr and venice commission;


### 18. welcomes the renewed adoption of anti-discrimination legislation , and urges the authorities to follow up with an inclusive and transparent process establishing an independent anti-discrimination commission , ensuring protection and inclusion of all marginalised groups; encourages the sobranie to adopt legislation which will enable a simplified , transparent and accessible procedure for legal gender recognition , and prevent discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity; ### 18. welcomes the renewed adoption of anti-discrimination legislation , and urges the authorities to follow up with an inclusive and transparent process establishing an independent anti-discrimination commission , ensuring protection and inclusion of all marginalised groups; encourages the sobranie to adopt legislation which will enable a simplified , transparent and accessible procedure based on self-determination for legal gender recognition , and prevent discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity;


### 21. calls on lawmakers in northern macedonia to take steps to ensure an adequate representation of women in all decision-making positions , and to further address the gender imbalance and gender pay gap in the labour force; ### 21. calls on lawmakers in north macedonia to take steps to ensure an adequate representation of women in all decision-making positions , and to further address the gender imbalance and gender pay gap in the labour force; calls on all political parties to improve and ensure equal representation of women in appointed offices;


### 22. welcomes the country’s efforts in improving cooperation on managing migration and addressing the needs of refugees , asylum seekers and migrants; recalls the need to establish a viable mechanism for managing irregular migratory flows , ensuring international protection and combating people smuggling networks; ### 22. welcomes the country’s efforts in improving cooperation on managing migration and addressing the basic needs of refugees , asylum seekers and migrants; calls for further strengthening of international protection of those in need , recalls the need to establish a viable mechanism for managing irregular migratory flows and combating people smuggling networks; encourages the country to move forward with the adoption of a strategy on the integration of migrants , including re-integration of returnees;


### 23. acknowledges that the generally favourable environment for freedom of expression and media independence must be enhanced through improved self-regulation , transparency of ownership and advertising market , while increasing financial sustainability and impartiality of public and private media outlets; ### 23. acknowledges that the generally favourable environment for freedom of expression and media independence must be enhanced through improved legal framework , self-regulation , transparency of ownership and advertising market , while increasing financial sustainability and impartiality of public and private media outlets;


### 24. encourages systemic media reforms that would reinvigorate competition , the independence of the public service broadcaster , and quality investigative journalism; ### 24. encourages systemic media reforms that would reinvigorate competition , the independence of the public service broadcaster , media regulator and support investigative journalism;


### 25. commends steps enhancing media self-regulation and professional standards; ### 25. notes the steps taken to enhance media self-regulation and professional standards;


### 27. calls for effective investigations into physical threats and verbal attacks against media professionals; ### 27. calls for effective investigations into physical threats and verbal attacks against media professionals and for the further improvement of the national legal framework to create institutional measures for increasing the safety of journalists;


### 28. notes the significance of ensuring quality journalism and media literacy for tackling widespread disinformation and fake news; ### 28. notes the significance of promoting quality journalism and media literacy for tackling widespread disinformation and fake news , disinformation campaigns in media , notably on social media platforms , which distort public opinion and pose severe risks to democratic societies and institutions , fundamental rights and freedoms , and the rule of law. is alarmed in particular by the rising wave of nationalistic rhetoric which surrounds the current setback in the eu accession negotiations process.


### 28. notes the significance of ensuring quality journalism and media literacy for tackling widespread disinformation and fake news; ### 28. notes the significance of ensuring quality journalism and media literacy for tackling widespread disinformation and fake news; is concerned about the disinformation campaigns in the media and calls on to investigate the sources of those campaigns;


### 34. welcomes continuous steps to ensure compliance with the obligations of the third energy package , and create an integrated regional energy market; ### 34. welcomes the progress achieved in ensuring compliance with the obligations of the third energy package , and creating an integrated regional energy market;


### 35. recalls the potential of the economic and investment plan for the western balkans to enhance regional connectivity through rail corridor viii to bulgaria , and gas interconnectors to greece , kosovo and serbia; ### 35. welcomes the adoption of the economic and investment plan and the green agenda for the western balkans to support green and digital transition of the region; recalls the potential of the economic and investment plan for the western balkans to enhance regional connectivity through rail corridor viii to bulgaria , and gas interconnectors to greece , kosovo and serbia;


### 37. reiterates its calls to address an alarming level of urban air pollution via a transition to sustainable energy , heating and transport; ### 37. reiterates its calls to address an alarming level of urban air pollution via a transition to sustainable energy , heating and transport , to ensure compliance with the emission ceiling levels for large combustion plants; recommends the development of a national strategy for coal phase out;


### 38. reiterates its full support to the enhanced regional cooperation in the region , and appeals to all parties to ensure the full and continuous implementation of the prespa agreement with greece and the treaty on good neighbourly relations with bulgaria; ### 38. reiterates its full support to the enhanced regional cooperation in the region , and appeals to all parties to ensure the need for the continuous implementation of the prespa agreement with greece and the treaty on good neighbourly relations with bulgaria in good faith by all parties;


### 39. regrets that bulgaria and north macedonia have yet to find a compromise on issues related to history and language , trusts that they will soon be settled in order not to jeopardise the integration momentum , and looks forward to holding of the first intergovernmental conference , kick-starting the accession talks without a further delay; ### 39. regrets that bulgaria and north macedonia have yet to find a compromise on issues related to history and language , making full use of the framework and objectives of the treaty of friendship , good neighbourliness and cooperation between the two countries , trusts that they will soon be settled in order not to jeopardise the integration momentum , and looks forward to holding of the first intergovernmental conference , kick-starting the accession talks without a further delay;


### 39. regrets that bulgaria and north macedonia have yet to find a compromise on issues related to history and language , trusts that they will soon be settled in order not to jeopardise the integration momentum , and looks forward to holding of the first intergovernmental conference , kick-starting the accession talks without a further delay; ### 39. regrets that bulgaria and north macedonia have yet to find a compromise on pending bilateral issues , trusts that they will soon be settled in order not to jeopardise the integration momentum , and looks forward to the adoption of the negotiating framework , with the aim of holding of the first intergovernmental conference , kick-starting the accession talks without a further delay;


### – having regard to the un convention on the rights of the child of 20 november 1989 , ### – having regard to the un convention on the rights of the child of 20 november 1989 , and its two optional protocols ,


### 17. stresses the link between the increase in human rights violations and widespread impunity and the lack of accountability in regions and countries devastated by conflicts or marked by politically motivated intimidation , discrimination , harassment and assault , abduction , violent policing , arbitrary arrests and cases of torture; ### 17. stresses the link between the increase in human rights violations and widespread impunity and the lack of accountability in regions and countries devastated by conflicts or marked by politically motivated intimidation , discrimination , harassment and assault , arbitrary arrests , cases of torture and killings; calls to support actions aimed at combating impunity and promote accountability especially in those regions where the dynamics of impunity reward those who bear the greatest responsibility and disempower victims;


### 17. stresses the link between the increase in human rights violations and widespread impunity and the lack of accountability in regions and countries devastated by conflicts or marked by politically motivated intimidation , discrimination , harassment and assault , abduction , violent policing , arbitrary arrests and cases of torture; ### 17. stresses the link between the increase in human rights violations and widespread impunity and the lack of accountability in regions and countries devastated by conflicts or marked by politically motivated intimidation , discrimination , harassment and assault , abduction , violent policing , arbitrary arrests and cases of torture; stresses also that in conflicts , minorities and marginalised groups are often particularly severely impacted;


### 18. welcomes the eu’s efforts to promote the universality of the rome statute in 2018 , during which the 20th anniversary of its adoption was celebrated , and reaffirms its unwavering support of the international criminal court; calls on the commission and the eeas to explore ways and present new tools to help the victims of violations of international human rights law and of international humanitarian law to access international justice and obtain remedy and reparation; ### 18. welcomes the eu’s efforts to promote the universality of the rome statute in 2018 , during which the 20th anniversary of its adoption was celebrated , and reaffirms its unwavering support of the international criminal court; calls on the commission and the eeas to explore ways and present new tools to help the victims of violations of international human rights law and of international humanitarian law to access international justice and obtain remedy and reparation; notes that international law is currently under serious pressure and is concerned that , because of its wide jurisdiction , of the 193 un member states , only 122 are members of the icc and only 38 have ratified the kampala amendment which gives the icc powers to prosecute the crime of aggression;


### 19. welcomes the initial discussions within the council regarding the establishment of an eu human rights sanctions mechanism , the so-called ‘magnitsky list’ , allowing for targeted sanctions against individuals complicit in serious human rights violations; ### 19. welcomes the initial discussions within the council regarding the establishment of an eu human rights sanctions mechanism , allowing for targeted sanctions against individuals complicit in serious human rights violations;


### – having regard to articles 21 and 36 of the treaty on european union , ### – having regard to title v of the treaty on european union ,


### – having regard to the charter of the united nations , ### – having regard to the charter of the united nations and the helsinki final act of 1975 of the organisation for security and cooperation in europe ,


### b. whereas the eu’s external action has a direct impact on the wellbeing of its citizens and aims to ensure security and stability while safeguarding the european values of freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law and respect for human rights; ### b. whereas the eu’s external action has a direct impact on the wellbeing of its citizens and aims to ensure security and stability while promoting the european values of freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law and respect for human rights; whereas the credibility of the european union as a global actor for peace and security rests on its practical adherence to its values and value-driven foreign policy is therefore in the union’s immediate interest;


### c. whereas the need for a stronger and united europe when it comes to external relations is more urgent than before; ### c. whereas , with the retreat of traditional partners from the global stage , increasing pressure on multilateral cooperation and institutions , and the rising assertiveness of regional powers , the need for a stronger europe that acts on its external relations in a unified manner is more urgent than ever before;


### d. whereas the foundations of multilateralism are challenged when universal rules and values are either called into question or taken advantage of; ### d. whereas multilateralism is the only guarantee for peace , security , and sustainable and inclusive development in a highly polarised international environment; whereas its foundations are threatened when universal rules and values , including fundamental human rights , international law , and humanitarian law , are either called into question or abused; whereas multilateralism is at the heart of the european union’s approach to its common foreign and security policy as enshrined in the treaty on european union;


### e. whereas the world is facing a global shift of powers with geopolitical competition being a leading trend in foreign politics that requires quick and adequate response mechanisms; ### e. whereas the world is facing a global shift of powers with geopolitical competition being a leading trend in foreign politics that requires quick and adequate response mechanisms and capabilities;


### f. whereas new political forces are pushing for their own global and regional ambitions with unpredictable consequences for global security; ### f. whereas rising state actors are pursuing potentially destabilising global and regional ambitions with unpredictable consequences for global security; whereas this global reconfiguration facilitates the emergence of autocratic leaders , violent non-state actors , and popular protest movements;


### f. whereas new political forces are pushing for their own global and regional ambitions with unpredictable consequences for global security; ### f. whereas new political forces are pushing for their own global and regional ambitions with unpredictable consequences for global security , and whereas europe is running the risk of being side-lined when it comes to decision-making and will be seriously disadvantaged as a result;


### f. whereas new political forces are pushing for their own global and regional ambitions with unpredictable consequences for global security; ### f. whereas new political forces are pushing for their own global and regional ambitions with unpredictable consequences for peace and global security;


### g. whereas the eu’s security environment is vulnerable to external pressure that prevents the eu from exercising its sovereignty; ### g. whereas the eu’s security environment is vulnerable to external pressure that prevents the eu from exercising its sovereignty and strategic autonomy; whereas this external pressure assumes both a physical and an online dimension; whereas disinformation and other forms of foreign interference poses serious risks for european sovereignty;


### — having regard to the council conclusions of 10 may 2021 entitled ‘the horn of africa: a geo-strategic priority for the eu’ , ### — having regard to the council conclusions of 10 may 2021 entitled ‘the horn of africa: a geo-strategic priority for the eu’ , and particularly to action 28 regarding access to and respect for sexual and reproductive health and rights ,


### — having regard to resolution 376 of the african commission on human and peoples’ rights , adopted in may 2017 , ### — having regard to resolutions 275 (lv) 2014 on protection against violence and other human rights violations against persons on the basis of their real or imputed sexual orientation or gender identity and 376 (lx) 2017 on the situation of human rights defenders in africa of the african commission on human and peoples’ rights ,


### contribute to regional security and stability both through conflict resolution and mediation activities and by addressing the root causes of conflicts; ### contribute to regional security and stability through supporting women's representation and active participation in conflict resolution and mediation activities by addressing the root causes of conflicts , including the ravaging effects of climate change fuelling conflicts over scarce ressources such as arable land and water;


### provide the countries affected by conflicts and natural disasters with prompt and adequate humanitarian assistance , in coordination with like-minded partners; ### provide the countries affected by conflicts and natural disasters with prompt and adequate humanitarian assistance , ensuring a gender-sensitive approach in order to bridge the increasing gender gap during crisis and conflict , in coordination with like-minded partners;


### take note of the region’s demographic development and recognise the role of young people in achieving economic sustainable development; strengthen eu support for access to education and vocational training , and the upskilling and reskilling of the workforce , according to the needs of the labour market; ### take note of the region’s demographic development and recognise the role of young people in achieving economic sustainable development; strengthen eu support for sexual and reproductive health and rights (srhr) , access to education , vocational training , and the upskilling and reskilling of the workforce , according to the needs of the labour market;


### scale up common actions in the fight against climate change , in particular in mitigation , adaptation , resilience and disaster risk management; share the benefits of the european green deal with our partners and support them in adopting their own climate transition agendas by sharing best practices and aligning , when possible , eu initiatives in this field with existing african initiatives; pay special attention to the human security implications of climate change; ### scale up common actions in the fight against climate change , in particular in mitigation , adaptation , resilience and disaster risk management; share the benefits of the european green deal , enshrined in the european climate law , with our partners and support them in adopting their own climate transition agendas by sharing best practices and aligning eu initiatives in this field with existing african initiatives; acknowledges the human security implications of climate change , hence stresses the need for the eu and its partners to conduct a climate-proof security and defence policy in line with the ambitions of the eu's climate change and defence roadmap embodied in the strategic compass for security;


### adopt a holistic , conflict-sensitive approach to cooperation on migration , in line with the khartoum process , taking into account the different drivers of migration in the region and the persistent vulnerability of migrants , respecting the rights of migrants and refugees , and recognising the benefits of circular migration and regional mobility; ### adopt a holistic , conflict-sensitive approach to cooperation on migration , in line with the khartoum process and the work of the regional ministerial forum on migration (rmfm) , taking into account the different drivers of migration in the region and the persistent vulnerability of migrants , respecting the rights of migrants and refugees ensuring they have access to employment rights and other social protections , such as access to the legal system and healthcare , in countries of origin , transit and destination , and recognising the benefits of circular migration and regional mobility;


### take note of the growing , multifaceted influence of third parties in the region; recognise that the increasing presence of actors that do not share the union`s values , interests and objectives could undermine the eu’s role as a privileged partner; ### take note of the growing , multifaceted influence of third parties in the region; recognise that the increasing presence of actors that do not share the union`s values , interests and objectives could undermine the eu’s role as a privileged partner; in this regard , is particularly concerned about the growing militarized presence of the united arab emirates and turkey which could negatively impact regional peace and jeopardize maritime security


### — having regard to the joint staff working document entitled ‘renewed partnership with the southern neighbourhood economic and investment plan for the southern neighbours’ (swd(2021)0023) , ### — having regard to the joint communication to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee and the committee of the regions entitled ‘renewed partnership with the southern neighbourhood , a new agenda for the mediterranean (join(2021)0002) and the accompanying joint staff working document entitled ‘renewed partnership with the southern neighbourhood economic and investment plan for the southern neighbours’ ,


### — having regard to the committee of the regions opinion entitled ‘renewed partnership with the southern neighbourhood - a new agenda for the mediterranean’ adopted at its 145th plenary session of 30 june and 1 july 2021 , ### deleted


### — having regard to the opinion by the committee on international trade in the form of a letter , ### deleted


### a. whereas , on 9 february 2021 , the commission and the commission vice-president / high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy (vp/hr) endorsed a joint communication for an ambitious and renewed partnership with the southern neighbourhood including a new agenda for the mediterranean and an accompanying economic and investment plan focusing on , inter alia: human development , good governance and the rule of law; resilience , prosperity and the digital transition , peace and security , migration and mobility , as well as the green transition; climate resilience , energy and the environment; ### a. whereas , on 9 february 2021 , the commission and the commission vice-president / high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy (vp/hr) endorsed a joint communication for an ambitious and renewed partnership with the southern neighbourhood entitled “a new agenda for the mediterranean” and an accompanying joint staff working document providing an economic and investment plan focusing on , five priorities , namely: human development , good governance and the rule of law; resilience , prosperity and the digital transition , peace and security , migration and mobility , as well as the green transition; climate resilience , energy and the environment