### the overall coordination of the development and operation of european electronic systems with a view to their operability , inter connectivity and continuous improvement and their synchronised implementation ; ### the overall coordination of the development and operation of european electronic systems with a view to their operability , cyber - resilience , interconnectivity and continuous improvement and their synchronised implementation ;


### the external experts shall be selected by the commission based on their skills , experience and knowledge relevant to the specific action , avoiding any potential conflict of interest . ### external experts shall be selected by the commission on the basis of their competence , experience in the field of application of this regulation and their relevant knowledge of the specific action being taken , avoiding any potential conflict of interest . the selection shall strike a balance between business representatives and other civil society experts , as well as take into account the principle of gender equality . the list of external experts shall be regularly updated and made accessible to the public .


### actions consisting in the development and operation of adaptations or extensions to the common components of the european electronic systems for cooperation with third countries not associated to the programme or international organisations shall be eligible for funding when they are of interest to the union . the commission shall put in place the necessary administrative arrangements , which may provide for a financial contribution from the third parties concerned to these actions . ### actions consisting in the development , deployment , maintenance and operation of adaptations or extensions to the common components of the european electronic systems for cooperation with third countries not associated to the programme or international organisations shall be eligible for funding when they are of interest to the union . the commission shall put in place the necessary administrative arrangements , which may provide for a financial contribution from the third parties concerned to these actions .


### the external experts shall be selected by the commission based on their skills , experience and knowledge relevant to the specific action , avoiding any potential conflict of interest . ### the external experts shall be selected by the commission based on their skills , experience and knowledge relevant to the specific action , avoiding any potential conflict of interest and taking into account the principle of gender equality .


### the financial envelope for the implementation of the programme for the period 2021 &#8211 ; 2027 shall be eur 950 000 000 in current prices . ### the financial envelope for the implementation of the programme for the period 2021 &#8211 ; 2027 shall be eur 842 844 000 in 2018 prices .


### the customs 2020 programme set up under regulation no 1294 / 201318 and its predecessors have significantly contributed to facilitating and enhancing customs cooperation . many of the activities in the customs area are of a cross - border nature , involving and affecting all member states , and therefore they cannot be effectively and efficiently delivered by individual member states . a customs programme at union level , implemented by the commission , offers member states a union framework to develop those cooperation activities , which is more cost - efficient than if each member state were to set up individual cooperation frameworks on a bilateral or multilateral basis . it is therefore appropriate to ensure the continuity of union financing of activities in the field of customs cooperation by establishing a new programme in the same area , the customs programme . __________________ 18 regulation no 1294 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 11 december 2013 establishing an action programme for customs in the european union for the period 2014 - 2020 and repealing decision no 624 / 2007 / ec , oj l 347 , 20 . 12 . 2013 , p . 209 . ### the customs 2020 programme , established by regulation no 1294 / 201318 , and its predecessors have contributed significantly to facilitating and strengthening customs cooperation . many of the customs activities are of a cross - border nature , involving and affecting all member states and therefore cannot be effectively and efficiently implemented by each member state alone . a union - wide customs programme implemented by the commission provides member states with a framework at union level to develop these cooperative activities , which is more cost - effective than if each member state set up its individual cooperation framework at bilateral or multilateral level . the customs programme also plays an essential role in safeguarding the financial interests of the union and of the member states . it is therefore appropriate and efficient to ensure the continuity of the union ' s financing activities in the field of customs cooperation by establishing a new programme in the same field , the customs programme . __________________ 18 regulation no 1294 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 11 december 2013 establishing an action programme for customs in the european union for the period 2014 - 2020 and repealing decision no 624 / 2007 / ec , oj l 347 , 20 . 12 . 2013 , p . 209 .


### the customs union has evolved considerably over the last fifty years and customs administrations now successfully perform a wide variety of tasks at borders . acting together , they work to facilitate trade and reduce red tape , collect revenues for national and union budgets and protect the public against terrorist , health , environmental and other threats . in particular , with the introduction of an eu - wide common risk management framework19 and customs control of movements of large amounts of cash to combat money laundering and terrorist financing , customs assume a front line position in the fight against terrorism and organised crime . given that broad mandate , customs is now effectively the lead authority for the control of goods at the union’s external borders . against that backdrop , the customs programme should not only cover customs cooperation but extend its support to the mission of customs authorities at large , as set out in article 3 of regulation no 952 / 2013 , i . e . the supervision of the union ' s international trade , the implementation of the external aspects of the internal market , of the common trade policy and of the other common union policies having a bearing on trade , as well as the security of the supply chain . the legal basis will therefore cover customs cooperation , internal market and commercial policy . __________________ 19 https : / / ec . europa . eu / taxation_customs / general - information - customs / customs - risk - management / measures - customs - risk - management - framework - crmf_en ### the customs union has evolved considerably over the last fifty years , and customs administrations are now successfully fulfilling a wide range of border tasks . working together , they strive to facilitate ethical and fair trade and reduce bureaucracy , collect revenue for national and union budgets , and protect the population against terrorist , health and environmental threats , as well as other threats . in particular , by introducing a common framework19 for customs risk management at union level and by controlling large amounts of cash flows to combat money laundering and terrorist financing , the customs authorities take a leading role in the fight against terrorism , organised crime and unfair competition . given their extensive mandate , the customs authorities are now truly the main authorities for the control of goods at the union ' s external borders . in this context , the customs programme should cover not only customs cooperation but also provide support for the wider customs mission as provided for in article 3 of regulation no 952 / 2013 , namely the oversight of the union ' s international trade , the implementation of the external aspects of the internal market , the common commercial policy and other union common policies affecting trade and the security of the supply chain . the legal basis will therefore cover customs cooperation , the internal market and commercial policy . __________________ 19 https : / / ec . europa . eu / taxation_customs / general - information - customs / customs - risk - management / measures - customs - risk - management - framework - crmf_en


### in providing a framework for actions that has as objective to support the customs union and customs authorities , the programme should contribute to protecting the financial and economic interests of the union and its member states ; protecting the union from unfair and illegal trade while supporting legitimate business activity ; ensuring the security and safety of the union and its residents ; and facilitating legitimate trade , so that businesses and citizens can benefit from the full potential of the internal market and of global trade . ### in providing a framework for actions that has as objective to support the customs union and customs authorities with a view to the long - term objective that all customs administrations in the union work together as if they were one , the programme should contribute to protecting the financial and economic interests of the union and its member states ; protecting the union from unfair and illegal trade while supporting legitimate business activity ; ensuring the security and safety of the union and its residents ; and facilitating legitimate trade , so that citizen and businesses and citizens can benefit from the full potential of the internal market and of global trade .


### in order to support the process of accession and association by third countries , the programme should be open to the participation of acceding and candidate countries as well as potential candidates and partner countries of the european neighbourhood policy if certain conditions are fulfilled . it may also be open to other third countries , in accordance with the conditions laid down in specific agreements between the union and those countries covering their participation to any union programme . ### in order to support the process of accession and association of third countries , the programme should be open to the participation of acceding and candidate countries as well as potential candidates and partner countries of the european neighbourhood policy , if all conditions are met . it may also be open to other third countries under the conditions provided for in specific agreements between the union and the countries concerned on the participation of those countries in any union programme , if that participation is of interest to the union and if it has a positive impact on the internal market without affecting consumer protection .


### a national component : a component of the european electronic systems developed at national level , which is available in the member state that created such a component or contributed to its joint creation ; ### a national component : a component of the european electronic systems developed at national level , which is available in the member state that created such a component or contributed to its joint creation , as for instance in a collaborative it development project by a group of member states ;


### the commission shall implement information and communication actions relating to the programme , and its actions and results . financial resources allocated to the programme shall also contribute to the corporate communication of the political priorities of the union , as far as they are related to the objectives referred to in article 3 . ### the commission shall implement b information and communication actions on the programme , on the actions financed under the progamme , and on the results achieved by those financed actions . the financial resources allocated to the programme shall also contribute to the institutional communication of the union ' s political priorities in so far as they are linked to the objectives set out in article 3 .


### the procurement of balancing capacity shall be facilitated on a regional level in accordance with point 8 of annex i . the procurement shall be based on a primary market and organised in such a way as to be non - discriminatory between market participants in the prequalification process individually or through aggregation . ### the procurement of balancing capacity shall be facilitated on a regional level in accordance with point 8 of annex i . the procurement shall be based on a primary market and be non - discriminatory between market participants in the prequalification process , including in particular where participation takes place individually or through aggregation .


### to efficiently steer necessary investments , prices also need to provide signals where electricity is most needed . in a zonal electricity system , correct locational signals require a coherent , objective and reliable determination of bidding zones via a transparent process . in order to ensure efficient operation and planning of the union electricity network and to provide effective price signals for new generation capacity , demand response or transmission infrastructure , bidding zones should reflect structural congestion . in particular , cross - zonal capacity should not be reduced in order to resolve internal congestion . ### to efficiently steer necessary investments , prices also need to provide signals where electricity is most needed . in a zonal electricity system , correct locational signals require a coherent , objective and reliable determination of bidding zones via a transparent process . in order to ensure efficient operation and planning of the union electricity network and to provide effective price signals for new generation capacity , demand response , energy storage or transmission infrastructure , bidding zones should reflect structural congestion . in particular , cross - zonal capacity should not be reduced in order to resolve internal congestion .


### regulatory authorities shall provide incentives to distribution system operators to procure services for the operation and development of their networks and integrate innovative solutions in the distribution systems . for that purpose regulatory authorities shall recognise as eligible and include all relevant costs in distribution tariffs and introduce performance targets in order to incentivise distribution system operators to raise efficiencies , including energy efficiency , in their networks . ### regulatory authorities shall provide incentives to distribution system operators to procure services for the operation and development of their networks and integrate innovative solutions in the distribution systems . for that purpose regulatory authorities shall recognise as eligible and include all relevant costs in distribution tariffs and introduce performance targets in order to incentivise distribution system operators to raise efficiencies , including energy efficiency and flexibility , in their networks and promote the integration of energy from renewable sources .


### balancing markets shall be organised in such a way as to ensure effective non - discrimination between market participants taking account of the different technical capability of generation from variable renewable sources and demand side response and storage . ### balancing markets shall ensure effective non - discrimination between market participants taking account of the different technical capability of generation from variable renewable sources , including in particular small decentralised and distributed generation , and demand side response and storage .


### the reliability standard shall be set by the national regulatory authority based on the methodology pursuant to article 19 . ### the reliability standard shall be set by the national regulatory authority based on the methodology pursuant to article 19 , taking into account the principles of necessity and proportionality and the need to avoid the negative impacts of environmentally harmful subsidies and unnecessary market distortions , including overcapacity .


### the procurement of balancing capacity shall be facilitated on a regional level in accordance with point 8 of annex i . the procurement shall be based on a primary market and organised in such a way as to be non - discriminatory between market participants in the prequalification process individually or through aggregation . ### the procurement of balancing capacity shall be facilitated on a regional level in accordance with point 8 of annex i . the procurement shall be based on a primary market and be non - discriminatory between market participants in the prequalification process to ensure participation can take place individually or through aggregation


### self - generated electricity from generating installations using renewable energy sources or high - efficiency cogeneration which is not fed into the transmission or distribution network shall not be curtailed unless no other solution would resolve network security issues ; ### self - generated electricity from generating installations using renewable energies or high - efficiency cogeneration , for the amount which is not fed into the transmission or distribution network shall not be curtailed unless , based on conditions pre - determined by the national energy regulator or otherwise mutually agreed to between the owner of the generating installation and the transmission or distribution system operator , no other solution would resolve network security issues ;


### rules regarding harmonised transmission and distribution tariff structures and connection charges including locational signals and inter - transmission system operator compensation rules ; ### rules regarding harmonised transmission tariff structures and connection charges including locational signals and inter - transmission system operator compensation rules ;


### when applying capacity mechanisms member states shall have a reliability standard in place indicating their desired level of security of supply in a transparent manner . ### when applying capacity mechanisms member states shall have a reliability standard in place , based on transparent , objective and verifiable criteria indicating the level of security of supply that they deem necessary .


### ' capacity mechanism ' means an administrative measure to ensure the achievement of the desired level of security of supply by remunerating resources for their availability not including measures relating to ancillary services ; ### ' capacity mechanism ' means an exceptional administrative measure that remunerates resources for their availability not including measures relating to ancillary services , adopted in accordance with the provisions of this regulation and in compliance with state aid rules and with the principles of necessity , proportionality and non - discrimination ;


### the procurement of upward balancing capacity and downward balancing capacity shall be carried out separately . the contracting shall be performed for not longer than one day before the provision of the balancing capacity and the contracting period shall have a maximum of one day . ### the procurement of upward balancing capacity and downward balancing capacity shall be carried out separately .


### the resources curtailed or redispatched shall be selected amongst generation or demand facilities submitting offers for curtailment or redispatching using market - based mechanisms and be financially compensated . non - market - based curtailment or redispatching of generation or redispatching of demand response shall only be used where no market - based alternative is available , where all available market - based resources have been used , or where the number of generation or demand facilities available in the area where suitable generation or demand facilities for the provision of the service are located is too low to ensure effective competition . the provision of market - based resources shall be open to all generation technologies , storage and demand response , including operators located in other member states unless technically not feasible . ### the resources curtailed or redispatched shall be selected amongst generation or demand facilities submitting offers for curtailment or redispatching using market - based mechanisms and be financially compensated . participation in market - based mechanisms shall be voluntary for all market participants , including in particular small decentralised and distributed generation . non - market - based curtailment or redispatching of generation or redispatching of demand response shall only be used where no market - based alternative is available , where all available market - based resources have been used , or where the number of generation or demand facilities available in the area where suitable generation or demand facilities for the provision of the service are located is too low to ensure effective competition . the provision of market - based resources shall be open to all generation technologies , storage and demand response , including operators located in other member states unless technically not feasible .


### charges applied by network operators for access to networks , including charges for connection to the networks , charges for use of networks , and , where applicable , charges for related network reinforcements , shall be transparent , take into account the need for network security and flexibility and reflect actual costs incurred insofar as they correspond to those of an efficient and structurally comparable network operator and are applied in a non - discriminatory manner . in particular , they shall be applied in a way which does not discriminate between production connected at the distribution level and production connected at the transmission level , either positively or negatively . they shall not discriminate against energy storage and shall not create disincentives for participation in demand response . without prejudice to paragraph 3 , those charges shall not be distance - related . ### charges applied by network operators for access to networks , including charges for connection to the networks , charges for use of networks , and , where applicable , charges for related network reinforcements , shall be transparent , take into account the need for network security and flexibility and reflect actual costs incurred insofar as they correspond to those of an efficient and structurally comparable network operator and are applied in a non - discriminatory manner . in particular , they shall be applied in a way which does not unduly discriminate between production connected at the distribution level and production connected at the transmission level . they shall not discriminate against energy storage and shall not create disincentives for participation in demand response or renewables self - consumption . without prejudice to paragraph 3 , those charges shall not be distance - related .


### to address residual concerns that cannot be eliminated by the measures pursuant to article 18 , member states may introduce capacity mechanisms , subject to the provisions of this article and to the union state aid rules . ### to address residual concerns that cannot be eliminated by the measures pursuant to article 18 , member states shall prepare a plan providing for appropriate measures to address the said concerns , to be implemented within a maximum period of five years .


### self - generated electricity from generating installations using renewable energy sources or high - efficiency cogeneration which is not fed into the transmission or distribution network shall not be curtailed unless no other solution would resolve network security issues ; ### self - generated electricity from generating installations using renewable energies or high - efficiency cogeneration , for the amount which is not fed into the transmission or distribution network shall not be curtailed unless , based on conditions pre - determined by the national energy regulator through a consultation , no other solution would resolve network security issues ;


### distribution tariffs shall reflect the cost of use of the distribution network by system users including active customers , and may be differentiated based on system users ' consumption or generation profiles . where member states have implemented the deployment of smart metering systems , regulatory authorities may introduce time differentiated network tariffs , reflecting the use of the network , in a transparent and foreseeable way for the consumer . ### distribution tariffs shall reflect the cost and benefits of use of the distribution network by system users including active customers , and may be differentiated based on system users ' consumption or generation profiles . where member states have implemented the deployment of smart metering systems , regulatory authorities shall endeavour to introduce time differentiated network tariffs , reflecting the use of the network , in a transparent and foreseeable way for the consumer .


### detailed rules for facilitating effective cross - border participation in capacity mechanisms other than reserve schemes should be laid down . transmission system operators across the borders should facilitate interested generators wanting to participate in capacity mechanisms in other member states . therefore , they should calculate capacities up to which cross - border participation would be possible , enable participation and check availabilities . national regulatory authorities should enforce the cross - border rules in the member states . ### detailed rules for facilitating effective cross - border participation in capacity mechanisms other than strategic reserves should be laid down . transmission system operators across the borders should facilitate interested generators wanting to participate in capacity mechanisms in other member states . therefore , they should calculate capacities up to which cross - border participation would be possible , enable participation and check availabilities . national regulatory authorities should enforce the cross - border rules in the member states .


### the procurement of balancing capacity shall be facilitated on a regional level in accordance with point 8 of annex i . the procurement shall be based on a primary market and organised in such a way as to be non - discriminatory between market participants in the prequalification process individually or through aggregation . ### the procurement of balancing capacity shall be based on a primary market and organised in such a way as to be non - discriminatory between market participants in the prequalification process individually or through aggregation .


### the tasks of the eu dso entity shall be the following : ### the eu dso entity shall promote :


### tariffs shall grant appropriate incentives to transmission and distribution system operators , over both the short and long term , to increase efficiencies , including energy efficiency , foster market integration and security of supply , and support investments and the related research activities . ### tariffs shall grant appropriate incentives to transmission and distribution system operators , over both the short and long term , to increase efficiencies , including energy efficiency , foster market integration , including from renewable sources , and security of supply , and support investments and the related research activities .


### guidelines may also determine appropriate rules relating to charges applied to producers , energy storage and customers under national distribution and transmission tariff systems and connection regimes , including the reflection of the inter - transmission system operator compensation mechanism in national network charges and the provision of appropriate and efficient locational signals , in accordance with the principles set out in article 16 . ### guidelines may also determine appropriate rules relating to charges applied to producers , energy storage and customers under national transmission tariff systems and connection regimes , including the reflection of the inter - transmission system operator compensation mechanism in national network charges and the provision of appropriate and efficient locational signals , in accordance with the principles set out in article 16 .


### in the past , electricity customers were purely passive , often buying electricity at regulated prices which had no direct relation to the market . in the future , customers need to be enabled to fully participate in the market on equal footing with other market participants . to integrate growing shares of renewable energy , the future electricity system should make use of all available sources of flexibility , particularly demand response and storage . to achieve effective decarbonisation at lowest cost , it also needs to encourage energy efficiency . ### in the past , electricity customers were purely passive , often buying electricity at regulated prices which had no direct relation to the market . in the future , customers need to be enabled to fully participate in the market on equal footing with other market participants . to integrate growing shares of renewable energy , the future electricity system should make use of all available sources of flexibility , particularly demand response and storage . to achieve effective decarbonisation at lowest cost , it also needs to encourage energy efficiency and to drive investments on the long term .


### balancing markets shall be organised in such a way as to ensure effective non - discrimination between market participants taking account of the different technical capability of generation from variable renewable sources and demand side response and storage . ### balancing markets shall ensure effective non - discrimination between market participants taking account of the different technical capability of generation from variable renewable sources , including in particular small decentralised and distributed generation , and demand side response and storage .


### ‘ congestion’ means a situation in which all requests from market participants to trade between two bidding zones cannot be accommodated because they would significantly affect the physical flows on network elements which cannot accommodate those flows ; ### ‘ congestion’ means a situation in which all requests from market participants to trade cannot be accommodated because they would significantly affect the physical flows on network elements which cannot accommodate those flows ;


### regulatory authorities shall provide incentives to distribution system operators to procure services for the operation and development of their networks and integrate innovative solutions in the distribution systems . for that purpose regulatory authorities shall recognise as eligible and include all relevant costs in distribution tariffs and introduce performance targets in order to incentivise distribution system operators to raise efficiencies , including energy efficiency , in their networks . ### regulatory authorities shall provide incentives to distribution system operators to procure services for the operation and development of their networks and integrate innovative solutions in the distribution systems . for that purpose regulatory authorities shall recognise as eligible and include all relevant costs in distribution tariffs and introduce performance targets in order to incentivise distribution system operators to raise efficiencies , including energy efficiency and flexibility , in their networks and promote the integration of energy from renewable sources .


### ' capacity mechanism ' means an administrative measure to ensure the achievement of the desired level of security of supply by remunerating resources for their availability not including measures relating to ancillary services ; ### ' capacity mechanism ' means an administrative measure to ensure the achievement of the necessary level of security of supply by remunerating resources for their availability not including measures relating to ancillary services ;


### the members of the stakeholder group shall be nominated by their respective organisations and appointed by the management board . the management board shall also appoint alternate members , in accordance with the same conditions as members , who shall automatically replace any members who are absent or indisposed . to the extent possible , an appropriate gender balance shall be respected , as well as adequate representation of smes . ### the members of the stakeholder group shall be nominated by their respective organisations and appointed by the management board . the management board shall also appoint alternate members , in accordance with the same conditions as members , who shall automatically replace any members who are absent or indisposed . an appropriate gender balance shall be respected , as well as adequate representation of smes .


### promote the exchange and dissemination of experiences and good practices , including examples of cooperation between the relevant national authorities ; ### promote the exchange and dissemination of experiences and good practices , including examples of cooperation between the relevant national authorities and efforts in closing the gender pay and pension gaps ;


### no later than five years after the date referred to in article 51 , and every five years thereafter , the commission shall assess the authority ' s performance in relation to its objectives , mandate and tasks . the evaluation shall , in particular , address the possible need to modify the mandate of the authority , and the financial implications of any such modification , including by further synergies and streamlining with agencies active in the area of employment and social policy . ### no later than five years after the date referred to in article 51 , and every five years thereafter , the commission shall assess the authority ' s performance in relation to its objectives , mandate and tasks . the evaluation shall , in particular , address the possible need to modify the mandate of the authority , and the financial implications of any such modification , including by further synergies and streamlining with agencies active in the area of employment and social policy . the evaluation shall be gender mainstreamed and include a chapter on gender equality .


### the authority shall assess risks and carry out analyses regarding cross - border labour flows , such as labour market imbalances , sector - specific threats and recurring problems encountered by individuals and employers in relation to cross - border mobility . for that purpose , the authority shall ensure complementarity with , and draw on the expertise of , other union agencies or services , including in the areas of skills forecasting and health and safety at work . upon a request by the commission , the authority may carry out focused in - depth analyses and studies to investigate specific labour mobility issues . ### the authority shall assess risks and carry out analyses regarding cross - border labour flows , such as labour market imbalances , sector - specific threats and recurring problems encountered by individuals and employers in relation to cross - border mobility . for that purpose , the authority shall ensure complementarity with , and draw on the expertise of , other union agencies or services , including in the areas of skills forecasting and health and safety at work . upon a request by the commission , the authority may carry out focused in - depth analyses and studies to investigate specific labour mobility issues . those analyses and studies shall be gender mainstreamed and include separate chapters on gender equality .


### ) regulation no 1215 / 2009 does not provide any possibility to temporarily suspend the grant of exceptional trade measures in case of serious and systematic violations of the fundamental principles of human rights , democracy and the rule of law by its beneficiaries . it is appropriate to introduce such possibility , so as to ensure that swift action can be taken in case serious and systematic violations of the fundamental principles of human rights , democracy and the rule of law would occur in one of the countries and territories participating in or linked to the european union ' s stabilisation and association process . ### regulation no 1215 / 2009 does not provide any possibility to temporarily suspend the grant of exceptional trade measures in case of violations of the fundamental principles of human rights , democracy and the rule of law by its beneficiaries . it is appropriate to introduce such possibility , so as to ensure that swift action can be taken in case violations of the fundamental principles of human rights , democracy and the rule of law would occur in one of the countries and territories participating in or linked to the european union ' s stabilisation and association process .


### provide relevant information to employers on labour rules , and the living and working conditions applicable to workers in cross - border labour mobility situations , including posted workers ; ### provide relevant information to individuals , the social partners and employers on labour rules , and the living and working conditions applicable to workers in cross - border labour mobility situations , including posted workers , eu blue card holders , intra - corporate transferees , long - term residents , and the family members of those workers ;


### facilitate access to information by individuals and employers on rights and obligations in cross - border situations as well as access to cross - border labour mobility services , in accordance with articles 6 and 7 ; ### facilitate access to information by individuals , the social partners and employers on rights and obligations in cross - border situations as well as access to cross - border labour mobility services , in accordance with articles 6 and 7 ;


### the authority should perform its activities in the areas of cross - border labour mobility and social security coordination , including free movement of workers , posting of workers and highly mobile services . it should also enhance cooperation between member states in tackling undeclared work . in cases where the authority , in the course of the performance of its activities , becomes aware of suspected irregularities , including in areas of union law beyond its scope , such as violations of working conditions , health and safety rules , or the employment of illegally staying third - country nationals , it should be able to report them and cooperate on these matters with the commission , competent union bodies , and national authorities where appropriate . ### the authority should perform its activities in the areas of cross - border labour mobility and social security coordination , including free movement of workers , posting of workers and highly mobile services . it should also enhance cooperation between member states in tackling undeclared work . in cases where the authority , in the course of the performance of its activities , becomes aware of suspected irregularities , including in areas of union law beyond its scope , such as violations of working conditions , or health and safety rules , it should be able to report them and cooperate on these matters with the commission , competent union bodies , and national authorities where appropriate .


### the authority shall encourage the use of innovative approaches to effective and efficient cross - border cooperation , and explore the potential use of electronic exchange mechanisms between the member states to facilitate the detection of fraud , providing reports to the commission with a view to their further development . ### the authority shall encourage the use of innovative approaches to effective and efficient cross - border cooperation , and explore the potential use of electronic exchange mechanisms between the member states to facilitate the detection of fraud , providing reports to the commission with a view to their further development , in accordance with union data protection law .


### when presenting a case for mediation by the authority , member states shall ensure that all personal data related to that case is anonymised and the authority shall not process the personal data of individuals concerned by the case at any point in the course of the mediation procedure . ### when presenting a case for mediation by the authority , member states shall ensure that all personal data related to that case is anonymised in such a manner that the data subject is not or no longer identifiable . the authority shall not process , under any circumstances , the personal data of individuals concerned by the case at any point in the course of the mediation procedure . such data shall be kept for no longer than is necessary for the purposes for which they are processed .


### within the framework of their respective competences , the authority should cooperate with other agencies of the union , in particular those established in the area of employment and social policy , building on their expertise and maximising synergies : the european foundation for the improvement of living and working conditions , the european centre for the development of vocational training , the european agency for safety and health at work , and the european training foundation , as well as , as regards the fight against organised crime and trafficking in human beings , with the european union agency for law enforcement cooperation and european union agency for criminal justice cooperation . ### within the framework of their respective competences , the authority should cooperate with other agencies of the union , in particular those established in the area of employment and social policy , building on their expertise and maximising synergies : the european foundation for the improvement of living and working conditions , the european centre for the development of vocational training , the european agency for safety and health at work , and the european training foundation .


### where financial instruments are implemented under shared implementation with member states , sector specific rules apply , without prejudice to subparagraph 2 of article 208 . ### where financial instruments are implemented under shared implementation with member states , sector specific rules apply .


### by way of derogation from article 2 , applicant member states may provide personalised services co - financed by the egf to up to a number of neets under the age of 25 , or where member states so decide under the age of 30 , on the date of submission of the application , equal to the number of targeted beneficiaries , as a priority to persons made redundant or whose activity has ceased , provided that at least some of the redundancies within the meaning of article 3 occur in nuts 2 level regions that had youth unemployment rates for young persons aged 15 to 24 of more than 25 % in 2012 and , for member states where the youth unemployment rate had increased by more than 30 % in 2012 , nuts level 2 regions that had youth unemployment rates of more than 20 % in 2012 . the support may be rendered to neets under the age of 25 , or where member states so decide under the age of 30 , in those nuts 2 level regions that had youth unemployment rates for young persons aged 15 to 24 of more than 25 % in 2012 and , for member states where the youth unemployment rate had increased by more than 30 % in 2012 , nuts level 2 regions that had youth unemployment rates of more than 20 % in 2012 . ### by way of derogation from article 2 , applicant member states may provide personalised services co - financed by the egf to up to a number of neets under the age of 25 , or where member states so decide under the age of 30 , on the date of submission of the application , equal to the number of targeted beneficiaries , as a priority to persons made redundant or whose activity has ceased , provided that at least some of the redundancies within the meaning of article 3 occur in nuts 2 level regions that had youth unemployment rates for young persons aged 15 to 24 of more than 20 % in 2016 . the support may be rendered to neets under the age of 25 , or where member states so decide under the age of 30 , in those nuts 2 level regions that had youth unemployment rates for young persons aged 15 to 24 of more than 20 % in 2016 .


### ‘ young people with fewer opportunities’ means young people facing some obstacles that prevent them from having effective access to opportunities under the programme for economic , social , cultural , geographical or health reasons or for reasons such as disabilities and educational difficulties ; ### ‘ young people with fewer opportunities’ means young people who need additional support , as adapted resources and formats , due to their disadvantage compared to their peers because of various obstacles , for example disability , health problems , educational difficulties , cultural differences , economic , social and geographical obstacles , including young people from marginalised communities or at risk of facing discrimination based on any of the grounds enshrined in article 21 of the charter of fundamental rights of the european union .


### ‘ young people with fewer opportunities’ means young people facing some obstacles that prevent them from having effective access to opportunities under the programme for economic , social , cultural , geographical or health reasons or for reasons such as disabilities and educational difficulties ; ### ‘ young people with fewer opportunities’ means individuals who require additional , targeted support due to discrimination and a heightened risk of social exclusion as a result of various factors , either individually or in combination with each other . such factors may include , disability , sexual orientation , gender identity , sex characteristics , race , ethnicity , socioeconomic background , health status , young people outside of family care , geographical obstacles , legal barriers or other status ;


### young people should be provided with easily accessible opportunities to engage in solidarity activities , which could enable them to express their commitment to the benefit of communities while acquiring useful experience , skills and competences for their personal , educational , social , civic and professional development , thereby improving their employability . those activities should also support the mobility of young volunteers , trainees and workers . ### young people should be provided with easily accessible and inclusive opportunities to engage in solidarity activities , which will enable them to express their commitment to the benefit of communities , including local communities , while acquiring useful experience , knowledge , skills and competences for their personal , educational , social , civic and professional development , thereby improving their employability at national , regional , european and where appropriate at cross - border or international level . those activities should also support the mobility of young volunteers , trainees and workers .


### reflecting the importance of tackling climate change in line with the union ' s commitments to implement the paris agreement and achieve the united nations sustainable development goals , this programme will contribute to mainstream climate action and to the achievement of an overall target of 25 % of the union budget expenditures supporting climate objectives . relevant actions will be identified during the programme ' s preparation and implementation , and reassessed in the context of the relevant evaluations and review processes . ### reflecting the importance of tackling climate change in line with the union ' s commitments to implement the paris agreement and achieve the united nations sustainable development goals , this programme will contribute to mainstream climate action and to the achievement of an overall target of at least 25 % of the union budget expenditures supporting climate objectives over the mff 2021 - 2027 period , and an annual target of 30 % as soon as possible and at the latest by 2027 . relevant actions will be identified during the programme ' s preparation and implementation , and reassessed in the context of the relevant evaluations and review processes .


### member states should endeavour to adopt all appropriate measures to remove legal and administrative obstacles to the proper functioning of the programme . this includes resolving , where possible , and without prejudice to union law on the entry and residence of third - country nationals issues that create difficulties in obtaining visas and residence permits . in line with directive 2016 / 801 of the european parliament and of the council32 , member states are encouraged to establish fast - track admission procedures . _________________ 32 directive 2016 / 801 of the european parliament and of the council of 11 may 2016 on the conditions of entry and residence of third - country nationals for the purposes of research , studies , training , voluntary service , pupil exchange schemes or educational projects and au pairing . ### member states should endeavour to adopt all appropriate measures to remove legal and administrative obstacles to the proper functioning of the programme . this includes resolving , where possible , and without prejudice to union law on the entry and residence of third - country nationals issues that create difficulties in obtaining visas and residence permits and other legal difficulties that could prevent young people’s access to the programme . in line with directive 2016 / 801 of the european parliament and of the council32 , member states are encouraged to establish fast - track admission procedures . _________________ 32 directive 2016 / 801 of the european parliament and of the council of 11 may 2016 on the conditions of entry and residence of third - country nationals for the purposes of research , studies , training , voluntary service , pupil exchange schemes or educational projects and au pairing .


### the specific objective of the programme is to provide young people , including those with fewer opportunities , with easily accessible opportunities for engagement in solidarity activities in europe and abroad while improving and properly validating their competences as well as facilitating their employability and transition into the labour market . ### the specific objective of the programme is to provide young people , including those with fewer opportunities , with easily accessible opportunities for engagement in solidarity activities in europe and abroad while improving and properly validating their professional and civic competences , promoting their continuous engagement as active citizens as well as facilitating employability and transition into the labour market .


### special attention should be given to ensuring that the activities supported by the european solidarity corps are accessible to all young people , notably the most disadvantaged ones . special measures should be in place to promote social inclusion , the participation of disadvantaged young people , as well as to take into account the constraints imposed by the remoteness of a number of rural areas and of the outermost regions of the union and the overseas countries and territories . similarly , the participating countries should endeavour to adopt all appropriate measures to remove legal and administrative obstacles to the proper functioning of the european solidarity corps . this should resolve , where possible , and without prejudice to the schengen acquis and union law on the entry and residence of third - country nationals , administrative issues that create difficulties in obtaining visas and residence permits , as well as the issuing of a european health insurance card in the case of cross - border activities within the european union . ### special attention should be given to ensuring that the activities supported by the european solidarity corps are accessible to all young people , with fewer opportunities as further detailed in the inclusion and diversity strategy developed and applied within the framework of the erasmus + programme in the youth field . special measures , such as appropriate formats of solidarity activities and personalised guidance , should be in place to promote social inclusion , the participation of young people with fewer opportunities , as well as to take into account the constraints imposed by the remoteness of a number of rural areas and of the outermost regions of the union and the overseas countries and territories . similarly , the participating countries should endeavour to adopt all appropriate measures to remove legal and administrative obstacles to the proper functioning of the european solidarity corps . this should resolve , where possible , and without prejudice to the schengen acquis and union law on the entry and residence of third - country nationals , administrative issues that create difficulties in obtaining visas and residence permits , as well as the issuing of a european health insurance card in the case of cross - border activities within the european union .


### actions implemented under the strand ' participation of young people in solidarity activities addressing societal challenges ' shall in particular contribute to strengthening cohesion , solidarity and democracy in the union and abroad , while also responding to societal challenges with particular effort to promote social inclusion . ### actions implemented under the strand ' participation of young people in solidarity activities addressing societal challenges ' shall in particular contribute to strengthening cohesion , solidarity , democracy and citizenship in the union and abroad , while also responding to societal challenges with particular effort to promote social inclusion and equal opportunities .


### the general objective of the programme is to enhance the engagement of young people and organisations in accessible and high - quality solidarity activities as a means to contribute to strengthening cohesion , solidarity and democracy in the union and abroad , addressing societal and humanitarian challenges on the ground , with particular effort to promote social inclusion . ### the general objective of the programme is to promote solidarity as a value , mainly through volunteering , enhance the engagement of young people and organisations in accessible and high - quality solidarity activities as a means to contribute to strengthening cohesion , solidarity , democracy and citizenship in the union and abroad , addressing societal and humanitarian challenges on the ground , with particular effort to promote social inclusion and equal opportunities .


### young people’s spirit of initiative is an important asset for society and for the labour market . the european solidarity corps contributes to fostering this aspect by offering young people the opportunity to devise and implement their own projects aimed at addressing specific challenges to the benefit of their local communities . these projects are an opportunity to try out ideas and support young people to be themselves drivers of solidarity actions . they also serve as a springboard for further engagement in solidarity activities and are a first step towards encouraging european solidarity corps participants to engage in self - employment or setting up associations , non - governmental organisations or other bodies active in the solidarity , non - profit and youth sectors . ### young people’s spirit of initiative is an important asset for society and for the labour market . the european solidarity corps contributes to fostering this aspect by offering young people the opportunity to devise and implement their own projects aimed at addressing specific challenges to the benefit of their local communities . these projects are an opportunity to try out ideas and support young people to be themselves drivers of solidarity actions . they also serve as a springboard for further engagement in solidarity activities and are a first step towards encouraging european solidarity corps participants to continue to be active citizens as volunteers , as employees in the solidarity sector , by engaging in self - employment or setting up associations , non - governmental organisations or other bodies active in the solidarity , non - profit and youth sectors .


### these activities should be to the benefit of communities while also fostering the individual’s personal , educational , social , civic and professional development , which may take the form of volunteering , traineeships and jobs , projects or networking activities , developed in relation to different areas , such as education and training , employment , gender equality , entrepreneurship – in particular social entrepreneurship – , citizenship and democratic participation , environment and nature protection , climate action , disaster prevention , preparedness and recovery , agriculture and rural development , provision of food and non - food items , health and wellbeing , creativity and culture , physical education and sport , social assistance and welfare , reception and integration of third - country nationals , territorial cooperation and cohesion , and cooperation across borders . such solidarity activities should include a solid learning and training dimension through relevant activities that can be offered to participants before , during and after the solidarity activity . ### these activities should have a clear european added value and be to the benefit of communities while also fostering the individual’s personal , educational , social , civic and professional development , which may take the form of volunteering , traineeships and jobs , projects or networking activities , developed in relation to different areas , such as education and training , employment , gender equality , entrepreneurship – in particular social entrepreneurship – , citizenship and democratic participation , intercultural and interreligious dialogue , social inclusion , inclusion of people with disabilities , environment and nature protection , climate action , disaster prevention , preparedness and recovery , agriculture and rural development , provision of food and non - food items , health and wellbeing , culture and creativity , physical education and sport , social assistance and welfare , reception and integration of third - country nationals , in particular asylum seekers and refugees , territorial cooperation and cohesion , and cooperation across borders . such solidarity activities should include a solid learning and training dimension through relevant activities that can be offered to participants before , during and after the solidarity activity .


### the interim evaluation of the programme shall be performed once there is sufficient information available about the implementation of the programme , but no later than four years after the start of the programme implementation . it shall also be accompanied by a final evaluation of the predecessor programme . ### the mid - term review of the programme shall be performed once there is sufficient information available about the implementation of the programme , but no later than 30 june 2024 . it shall also be accompanied by a final evaluation of the predecessor programme .


### the general objective of the programme is to enhance the engagement of young people and organisations in accessible and high - quality solidarity activities as a means to contribute to strengthening cohesion , solidarity and democracy in the union and abroad , addressing societal and humanitarian challenges on the ground , with particular effort to promote social inclusion . ### the general objective of the programme is to enhance the engagement of young people and organisations in accessible and high - quality solidarity activities as a means to contribute to strengthening social cohesion , solidarity , european identity and democracy in the union and abroad , addressing societal and humanitarian challenges on the ground , with particular effort to promote social inclusion .


### ‘ volunteering’ means a solidarity activity taking place as voluntary unpaid activity for a period of up to 12 months ; ### ‘ volunteering’ means a solidarity activity taking place as voluntary unpaid activity , either full - time , part - time or during free time , for a period of up to 12 months ;


### special attention should be given to ensuring that the activities supported by the european solidarity corps are accessible to all young people , notably the most disadvantaged ones . special measures should be in place to promote social inclusion , the participation of disadvantaged young people , as well as to take into account the constraints imposed by the remoteness of a number of rural areas and of the outermost regions of the union and the overseas countries and territories . similarly , the participating countries should endeavour to adopt all appropriate measures to remove legal and administrative obstacles to the proper functioning of the european solidarity corps . this should resolve , where possible , and without prejudice to the schengen acquis and union law on the entry and residence of third - country nationals , administrative issues that create difficulties in obtaining visas and residence permits , as well as the issuing of a european health insurance card in the case of cross - border activities within the european union . ### special attention should be given to ensuring that the activities supported by the european solidarity corps are accessible to all young people , notably the most disadvantaged ones . special measures should be in place to promote social inclusion , the participation of young people with fewer opportunities , as well as to take into account the constraints imposed by the remoteness of a number of rural areas and of the outermost regions of the union and the overseas countries and territories . similarly , the participating countries should endeavour to adopt all appropriate measures to remove legal and administrative obstacles to the proper functioning of the european solidarity corps . this should resolve , where possible , and without prejudice to the schengen acquis and union law on the entry and residence of third - country nationals , administrative issues that create difficulties in obtaining visas and residence permits and other legal difficulties that could prevent young people’s access to the programme , as well as the issuing of a european health insurance card in the case of cross - border activities within the european union .


### the european solidarity corps portal should be continuously developed in order to ensure easy access to the european solidarity corps and to provide a one - stop shop for both interested individuals and organisations as regards , inter alia , registration , identification and matching of profiles and opportunities , networking and virtual exchanges , online training , language and post - activity support as well as other useful functionalities , which may arise in the future . ### the european solidarity corps portal should be continuously developed in order to ensure easy access to the european solidarity corps , in accordance with the standards established by directive 2016 / 2102 of the european parliament and of the council of 26 october 2016 on the accessibility of the websites and mobile applications of public sector bodies . the european solidarity corps portal provides a one - stop shop for both interested individuals and organisations as regards , inter alia , registration , identification and matching of profiles and opportunities , networking and virtual exchanges , online training , language and post - activity support as well as other useful functionalities , which may arise in the future . while a one - stop shop provides the advantage of integrated access to diverse activities , individuals may encounter physical , social and other obstacles in acceding the european solidarity corps portal . in order to overcome such obstacles , participating organisations should provide participants with registration support .


### the european solidarity corps shall be open to the participation of public or private entities and international organisations , provided that they have received a european solidarity corps quality label . ### the european solidarity corps shall be open to the participation of public or private entities , whether non - profit or profit - making , and international organisations , including youth organisations , churches , religious and charity associations , communities , ngos or other actors from civil society , provided that they offer activities that correspond to the definition of solidarity activity within this regulation , that they have legal personality according to the legislation of the country where they are registered and that they have received a european solidarity corps quality label . in line with the eu financial regulation , the grants shall not have the purpose or effect of producing a profit .


### special attention should be given to ensuring that the activities supported by the european solidarity corps are accessible to all young people , notably the most disadvantaged ones . special measures should be in place to promote social inclusion , the participation of disadvantaged young people , as well as to take into account the constraints imposed by the remoteness of a number of rural areas and of the outermost regions of the union and the overseas countries and territories . similarly , the participating countries should endeavour to adopt all appropriate measures to remove legal and administrative obstacles to the proper functioning of the european solidarity corps . this should resolve , where possible , and without prejudice to the schengen acquis and union law on the entry and residence of third - country nationals , administrative issues that create difficulties in obtaining visas and residence permits , as well as the issuing of a european health insurance card in the case of cross - border activities within the european union . ### special attention should be given to ensuring that the activities supported by the european solidarity corps are accessible to all young people , notably those with fewer opportunities . special and effective measures should be put in place to promote social inclusion and , in particular , the participation of young people with fewer opportunities , as well as to take into account the constraints imposed by the remoteness of a number of rural areas and of the outermost regions of the union and the overseas countries and territories . similarly , the participating countries should endeavour to adopt all appropriate measures to remove legal and administrative obstacles to the proper functioning of the european solidarity corps . this should resolve , where possible , and without prejudice to the schengen acquis and union law on the entry and residence of third - country nationals , administrative issues that create difficulties in obtaining visas and residence permits , as well as the issuing of a european health insurance card in the case of cross - border activities within the european union .


### the financial envelope for the implementation of the programme for the period 2021 - 2027 shall be eur 1 260 000 000 in current prices . ### the financial envelope for the implementation of the programme for the period 2021 - 2027 shall be eur 1 112 988 000 in 2018 prices [ eur 1 260 000 000 in current prices ] .


### particular attention should be given to ensuring the quality of the activities and other opportunities offered under the european solidarity corps , in particular by offering training , language support , insurance , administrative and post - activity support to participants as well as the validation of the knowledge , skills and competences acquired through their european solidarity corps experience . security and safety of the volunteers remain of paramount importance and volunteers should not be deployed to operations conducted in the theatre of international and non - international armed conflicts . ### particular attention should be given to ensuring the quality of the activities and other opportunities offered under the european solidarity corps , in particular by offering on - line and off - line training , language support , insurance , simplified administrative procedures and pre and post - activity support to participants , also in cooperation with youth and civil society organisations , as well as the validation of the knowledge , skills and competences acquired through their european solidarity corps experience . security and safety of the volunteers remain of paramount importance and volunteers should not be deployed to operations conducted in the theatre of international and non - international armed conflicts .


### the european union is built on solidarity , among its citizens and among its member states . this common value guides its actions and provides the necessary unity to cope with current and future societal challenges , which young europeans are willing to help address by expressing their solidarity in practice . ### solidarity , among eu citizens and among eu member states , is one of the universal values on which the european union is built . this common value guides its actions and provides the necessary unity to cope with current and future societal challenges , which young europeans are willing to help address by expressing their solidarity in practice .


### the specific objective of the programme is to provide young people , including those with fewer opportunities , with easily accessible opportunities for engagement in solidarity activities in europe and abroad while improving and properly validating their competences as well as facilitating their employability and transition into the labour market . ### the specific objective of the programme is to provide young people , including those with fewer opportunities , with easily accessible opportunities for engagement in solidarity activities in europe and abroad while improving and properly validating their competences for personal , educational , social , civic , cultural development as well as facilitating their active citizenship and their employability and transition into the labour market .


### the european solidarity corps provides a single entry point for solidarity activities throughout the union and beyond . consistency and complementarity should be ensured with other relevant union policies and programmes . the european solidarity corps is built on the strengths and synergies of predecessor and existing programmes , notably the european voluntary service19 and the eu aid volunteers20 . it also complements the efforts made by member states to support young people and ease their school - to - work transition under the youth guarantee by providing them with additional opportunities to make a start on the labour market in the form of traineeships or jobs in solidarity - related areas within their respective member state or across borders . complementarity with existing union level networks pertinent to the activities under the european solidarity corps , such as the european network of public employment services , eures and the eurodesk network , are also ensured . furthermore , complementarity between existing related schemes , in particular national solidarity schemes and mobility schemes for young people , and the european solidarity corps should be ensured , building on good practices where appropriate . _________________ 19 regulation no 1288 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 11 december 2013 establishing ‘ erasmus + ’ : the union programme for education , training , youth and sport and repealing decisions no 1719 / 2006 / ec , no 1720 / 2006 / ec and no 1298 / 2008 / ec . 20 regulation no 375 / 2014 of the european parliament and of the council of 3 april 2014 establishing the european voluntary humanitarian aid corps . ### the european solidarity corps provides a single entry point for solidarity activities throughout the union and beyond . consistency and complementarity should be ensured with other relevant union policies and programmes . the european solidarity corps is built on the strengths and synergies of predecessor and existing programmes , notably the european voluntary service19 and the eu aid volunteers20 . it also complements the efforts made by member states to support young people and ease their school - to - work transition under the youth guarantee by providing them with additional opportunities to make a start on the labour market in the form of traineeships or jobs in solidarity - related areas within their respective member state or across borders . complementarity with existing union level networks pertinent to the activities under the european solidarity corps , such as the european network of public employment services , eures and the eurodesk network , are also ensured . furthermore , complementarity between existing related schemes , in particular national solidarity schemes , as volunteering and civil services and mobility schemes for young people , and the european solidarity corps should be ensured , building on good practices where appropriate . the european solidarity corps should not substitute national schemes . access for all young people to national solidarity activities should be granted in all member states with adequate legal framework and national resources . _________________ 19 regulation no 1288 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 11 december 2013 establishing ‘ erasmus + ’ : the union programme for education , training , youth and sport and repealing decisions no 1719 / 2006 / ec , no 1720 / 2006 / ec and no 1298 / 2008 / ec . 20 regulation no 375 / 2014 of the european parliament and of the council of 3 april 2014 establishing the european voluntary humanitarian aid corps .


### the specific objective of the programme is to provide young people , including those with fewer opportunities , with easily accessible opportunities for engagement in solidarity activities in europe and abroad while improving and properly validating their competences as well as facilitating their employability and transition into the labour market . ### the specific objective of the programme is to provide young people , including those with fewer opportunities , with easily accessible opportunities for engagement in solidarity activities in europe and abroad while improving and properly validating their professional and civic competences , promoting their continuous engagement as active citizens as well as facilitating employability and transition into the labour market .


### the establishment , maintenance and updating of the european solidarity corps portal and other relevant online services as well as the necessary it support systems and web - based tools . ### the establishment , maintenance and updating of an accessible european solidarity corps portal and other relevant online services as well as necessary it support systems and web - based tools in line with the accessibility requirements of directive 2016 / 2102 of the european parliament and of the council of 26 october 2016 on the accessibility of the websites and mobile applications of public sector bodies .


### reflecting the importance of tackling climate change in line with the union ' s commitments to implement the paris agreement and the united nations sustainable development goals , this specific programme will contribute to mainstream climate actions and to the achievement of an overall target of 25 % of the eu budget expenditures supporting climate objectives . actions under this specific programme are expected to contribute 35% of the overall financial envelope of the specific programme to climate objectives . relevant actions will be identified during the specific programme ' s preparation and implementation , and reassessed in the context of the relevant evaluations and review processes . ### reflecting the importance of tackling climate change in line with the union ' s commitments to implement the paris agreement and the united nations sustainable development goals , this specific programme will contribute to mainstream climate actions and to the achievement of an overall target of 25 % of the eu budget expenditures supporting climate objectives . actions under this specific programme are expected to contribute 35% of the overall financial envelope of the specific programme to climate objectives . relevant actions will be identified , in consultation with relevant stakeholders and civil society , during the specific programme ' s preparation and implementation , and reassessed in the context of the relevant evaluations and review processes .


### involving citizens and end - users in co - design and co - creation processes ; ### involving effectively citizens , relevant stakeholders and end - users in co - design and co - creation processes , strengthening the multi - actor approach ;


### resilient and sustainable farming and forestry systems provide economic , environmental and social benefits in a changing context for primary production . in addition to contributing to food and nutrition security , they feed into dynamic value chains , manage land and natural resources as well as deliver a range of vital public goods including carbon sequestration , biodiversity preservation , pollination and public health . integrated approaches are needed to promote the multiple functions of agro - and forest systems taking into account the changing context for primary production , notably in relation to climate and environment , resource availability , demography and consumption patterns . it is also necessary to address the spatial and socio - economic dimension of agriculture and forestry activities and mobilise the potential of rural areas . ### resilient and sustainable farming and forestry systems provide economic , environmental and social benefits in a changing context for primary production . in addition to ensuring food and nutrition security , they feed into dynamic value chains , manage land and natural resources as well as deliver a range of vital public goods including carbon sequestration , biodiversity preservation , pollination and public health . integrated approaches are needed to promote the multiple functions of agro - and forest systems taking into account the changing context for primary production , notably in relation to climate and environment , resource availability , competitiveness , demography and consumption patterns . it is also necessary to address the spatial and socio - economic dimension of agriculture and forestry activities and mobilise the potential of rural areas . farmers also need continued access to innovation , to new technology and to research in order to produce food in a sustainable way so that we can both feed the world and protect the environment for future generations .


### the combined effects of population growth , resource scarcity and overexploitation , environmental degradation , climate change and migration create unprecedented challenges which require food system transformation . 20 current food production and consumption are largely unsustainable while we are confronted with the double burden of malnutrition , characterised by the coexistence of undernutrition and obesity . future food systems need to deliver sufficient safe , healthy and quality food for all , underpinned by resource efficiency , sustainability , linking land and sea , reducing food waste , enhancing food production from the seas and oceans and encompassing the entire ' food value chain ' from producers to consumers – and back again . this needs to go hand in hand with development of the food safety system of the future and the design , development and delivery of tools , technologies and digital solutions that provide significant benefits for consumers and improve the competitiveness and sustainability of the food value chain . furthermore , there is a need to foster behavioural changes in food consumption and production patterns as well as to engage primary producers , industry , retailers , food service sectors , consumers , and public services . _________________ 20 swd 319 final : european research and innovation for food and nutrition security ### the combined effects of population growth , resource scarcity and overexploitation , environmental degradation , climate change and migration create unprecedented challenges which require food system transformation . 20 current food production and consumption patterns are to some extent unsustainable while we are confronted with the double burden of malnutrition , characterised by the coexistence of undernutrition and obesity . future food systems need to deliver sufficient safe , healthy , diverse , affordable and quality food for all , underpinned by resource efficiency , economic and environmental sustainability , linking land and sea , reducing food waste , enhancing food production from the seas and oceans and encompassing the entire ' food value chain ' from producers to consumers – and back again . this needs to go hand in hand with development of the food safety system of the future and the design , development and delivery of tools , technologies and digital solutions that provide significant benefits for producers and consumers and improve the competitiveness and sustainability of the food value chain . furthermore , there is a need to foster behavioural changes in food consumption and production patterns towards nutritious and healthy diets , as well as to engage primary producers , industry , retailers , food service sectors , consumers , and public services . _________________ 20 swd 319 final : european research and innovation for food and nutrition security


### –innovation and food systems for place - based innovation and empowerment of communities , fostering fair trade and pricing , inclusiveness and sustainability through partnerships between industry , local authorities , researchers and society . ### –innovation and food systems for place - based innovation and empowerment of communities , fostering fair food chains through fair trade and pricing , inclusiveness and sustainability , promoting partnerships among the various actors of the food chain and between industry , local authorities , researchers and society .


### resilient and sustainable farming and forestry systems provide economic , environmental and social benefits in a changing context for primary production . in addition to contributing to food and nutrition security , they feed into dynamic value chains , manage land and natural resources as well as deliver a range of vital public goods including carbon sequestration , biodiversity preservation , pollination and public health . integrated approaches are needed to promote the multiple functions of agro - and forest systems taking into account the changing context for primary production , notably in relation to climate and environment , resource availability , demography and consumption patterns . it is also necessary to address the spatial and socio - economic dimension of agriculture and forestry activities and mobilise the potential of rural areas . ### resilient and sustainable farming and forestry systems provide economic , environmental and social benefits in a changing context for primary production . in addition to ensuring food and nutrition security , they feed into dynamic value chains , manage land and natural resources as well as deliver a range of vital public goods including carbon sequestration , biodiversity preservation , pollination and public health . integrated approaches are needed to promote the multiple functions of agro - and forest systems taking into account the changing context for primary production , notably in relation to climate and environment , resource availability , demography and consumption patterns . it is also necessary to address the spatial and socio - economic dimension of agriculture and forestry activities and mobilise the potential of rural areas .


### they will also foster participatory approaches to research and innovation , including the multi - actor approach and develop knowledge and innovation systems at local , regional , national and european levels . social innovation with citizens ' engagement and trust in innovation will be crucial to encourage new governance , production and consumption patterns . ### they will also foster participatory approaches to research and innovation , including the multi - actor approach and develop knowledge and innovation systems at local , regional , national and european levels . social innovation with citizens ' engagement and trust in innovation and food systems - through an increasing transparency of the food chain - will be crucial to encourage new governance , production and consumption patterns .


### –agricultural knowledge and innovation systems and their interconnection at various scales ; advice , building skills and information sharing . ### –agricultural knowledge and innovation systems and their interconnection at various scales ; advice , building skills and information sharing ; improvement of knowledge exchange and promotion of new approaches , such as benchmarking farm performance , in order to help farmers adapt and the management of their farms .


### improving science communication . ### improving science communication with a view to promoting social and political awareness of the potential of promising emerging tools and technologies .


### by [ op : please insert the date calculated 5 years after the deadline for transposition of the directive ] , the commission shall submit a report to the european parliament and the council on the implementation and effects of this directive . the report shall include information on the use of vehicles hired in a member state other than the member state of establishment of the undertaking hiring the vehicle . on the basis of this report , the commission shall assess whether it is necessary to propose additional measures . ### by [ op : please insert the date calculated 5 years after the deadline for transposition of the directive ] , the commission shall submit a report to the european parliament and the council on the implementation and effects of this directive . the report shall include information on the use of vehicles hired in a member state other than the member state in which the undertaking hiring the vehicle has its head office . on the basis of this report , the commission shall assess whether it is necessary to propose additional measures .


### by [ op : please insert the date calculated 5 years after the deadline for transposition of the directive ] , the commission shall submit a report to the european parliament and the council on the implementation and effects of this directive . the report shall include information on the use of vehicles hired in a member state other than the member state of establishment of the undertaking hiring the vehicle . on the basis of this report , the commission shall assess whether it is necessary to propose additional measures . ### article 5a review by [ op : please insert the date calculated three years after the deadline for transposition of the directive ] , the commission shall submit a report to the european parliament and the council on the implementation and effects of this directive . the report shall include information on the use of vehicles hired in a member state other than the member state of establishment of the undertaking hiring the vehicle . particular attention should be paid to the impact of the revised directive on the functioning of the eu road haulage market and relative usage rates between hired and owned vehicles , as well as any road safety , social or environmental effects . the report shall also assess infringements of this directive and any particular issues arising in relation to the use of hired vehicles and illegal cabotage or so called ‘ letterbox’ companies , in addition to any fiscal distortions regarding national taxation requirements and income . on the basis of this report , the commission shall assess whether it is necessary to propose additional measures , including legislative measures where necessary .


### the vehicle is registered or put into circulation in compliance with the laws of a member state ; ; ### the vehicle is registered and complies with current operating standards and safety requirements or put into circulation in compliance with the laws of any member state and authorised to be used by the member state of establishment of the undertaking ;


### the vehicle is registered or put into circulation in compliance with the laws of a member state ; ; ### the vehicle is registered or put into circulation in compliance with the laws of any member state ;


### member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure that their undertakings may use hired vehicles for the carriage of goods by road under the same conditions as vehicles owned by them , provided that the conditions laid down in article 2 are satisfied . ### member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure that undertakings established within their territories may use hired vehicles for the carriage of goods by road under the same conditions as vehicles owned by them , provided that the conditions laid down in article 2 are satisfied .


### for transnational cooperation and maritime cooperation , the regions to be supported by the erdf shall be the nuts level 2 regions of the union covering contiguous functional areas , taking into account , where applicable , macro - regional strategies or sea basin strategies . ### for transnational cooperation , the regions to be supported by the erdf shall be the nuts level 2 regions of the union covering functional areas , taking into account , where applicable , macro - regional strategies or sea basin strategies .


### it is necessary to set out the resources allocated to each of the different components of interreg , including each member state ' s share of the global amounts for the cross - border cooperation , the transnational cooperation and maritime cooperation , the outermost regions’ cooperation and the interregional cooperation , the potential available to member states concerning flexibility between those components . compared to the programming period 2014 - 2020 , the share for cross - border cooperation should be reduced , while the share for transnational cooperation and maritime cooperation should be increased because of the integration of maritime cooperation , and a new outermost regions’ cooperation component should be created . ### it is necessary to set out the resources allocated to each of the different components of interreg , including each member state ' s share of the global amounts for the cross - border cooperation , the transnational cooperation and maritime cooperation , the outermost regions’ cooperation and the interregional cooperation , the potential available to member states concerning flexibility between those components .


### 2024 : 1 % ; ### 2024 : 1 . 5 % ;


### the cross - border cooperation component should aim to tackle common challenges identified jointly in the border regions , and to exploit the untapped growth potential in border areas as evidenced in the communication of the commission ' boosting growth and cohesion in eu border regions’23 . consequently , the cross - border component should be limited to cooperation on land borders and cross - border cooperation on maritime borders should be integrated into the transnational component . __________________ 23 communication from the commission to the council and the european parliament ' boosting growth and cohesion in eu border regions ' - com 534 final , 20 . 9 . 2017 . ### the cross - border cooperation component should aim to tackle common challenges , including cultural differences and language barriers , identified jointly in the border regions , as these may hinder integration , restrict interaction and scale down opportunities for people and businesses on both sides of the border , and to exploit the untapped growth potential in border areas as evidenced in the communication of the commission ' boosting growth and cohesion in eu border regions’23 . consequently , the cross - border component should be limited to cooperation on land borders and cross - border cooperation on maritime borders should be integrated into the transnational component . __________________ 23 communication from the commission to the council and the european parliament ' boosting growth and cohesion in eu border regions ' - com 534 final , 20 . 9 . 2017 .


### third countries , partner countries and octs participating in an interreg programme shall delegate staff to the joint secretariat of that programme or shall set up a branch office in its respective territory , or shall do both . ### third countries , partner countries and octs participating in an interreg programme may delegate staff to the joint secretariat of that programme and / or shall set up a branch office or a contact point in its respective territory .


### the values of output and result indicators for selected interreg operations and values achieved by interreg operations . ### the values of output and result indicators for selected interreg operations and values achieved by finalized interreg operations .


### technical assistance to each interreg programme shall be reimbursed as a flat rate by applying the percentages set out in paragraph 2 to the eligible expenditure included in each payment application pursuant to [ points or of article 85 ] of regulation [ new cpr ] as appropriate . ### technical assistance to each interreg programme shall be reimbursed as a flat rate by applying the percentages set out in paragraph 2 for 2021 and 2022 to the yearly instalments of the pre - financing pursuant to points and of article 49 and then to the eligible expenditure included in each payment application pursuant to [ points or of article 85 ] of regulation [ new cpr ] as appropriate for subsequent years .


### the cross - border cooperation component should aim to tackle common challenges identified jointly in the border regions , and to exploit the untapped growth potential in border areas as evidenced in the communication of the commission ' boosting growth and cohesion in eu border regions’23 . consequently , the cross - border component should be limited to cooperation on land borders and cross - border cooperation on maritime borders should be integrated into the transnational component . ### the cross - border cooperation component should aim to tackle common challenges identified jointly in the land or maritime border regions , and to exploit the untapped growth potential in border areas . consequently , the cross - border component should include cooperation on land or maritime borders and cross - border cooperation should support regions located along land or maritime borders .


### 2023 : 1 % ; ### 2023 : 1 . 5 % ;


### the transnational cooperation and maritime cooperation component should aim to strengthen cooperation by means of actions conducive to integrated territorial development linked to the union ' s cohesion policy priorities , and should also include maritime cross - border cooperation . transnational cooperation should cover larger territories on the mainland of the union , whereas maritime cooperation should cover territories around sea - basins and integrate cross - border cooperation on maritime borders during the programming period 2014 - 2020 . maximum flexibility should be given to continue implementing previous maritime cross - border cooperation within a larger maritime cooperation framework , in particular by defining the territory covered , the specific objectives for such cooperation , the requirements for a project partnership and the setting - up of sub - programmes and specific steering committees . ### the transnational cooperation component should aim to strengthen cooperation by means of actions conducive to integrated territorial development linked to the union ' s cohesion policy priorities , and should also include maritime cooperation . .


### under external cross - border and component 2 and 3 interreg programmes the erdf and , where applicable , the external financing instruments of the union shall also contribute to the external interreg - specific objective ' a safer and more secure europe ' , in particular by actions in the fields of border crossing management and mobility and migration management , including the protection of migrants . ### under external cross - border and component 2 and 3 interreg programmes the erdf and , where applicable , the external financing instruments of the union may also contribute to the external interreg - specific objective ' a safer and more secure europe ' , in particular by actions in the fields of border crossing management and mobility and migration management , including the protection of migrants .


### however , an interreg programme covering support from an external financing instrument of the union shall be submitted by the member state hosting the prospective managing authority no later than six months after the adoption by the commission of the relevant strategic programming document under article 10 or where required under the respective basic act of one or more of an external financing instrument of the union . ### however , an interreg programme covering support from an external financing instrument of the union shall be submitted by the member state hosting the prospective managing authority no later than twelve months after the adoption by the commission of the relevant strategic programming document under article 10 or where required under the respective basic act of one or more of an external financing instrument of the union .