# Official Journal C 81/4 Ap

| | ISSN 1725-2423 |
| --- | --- |
| Official Journal
  of the European Union | C 81 |
| | |
| English edition | Information and Notices | Volume 494 April 2006 |

ISSN 1725-2423

Official Journal

of the European Union

C 81

English edition

Information and Notices

Volume 494 April 2006

---

| Notice No | Contents | page |
| --- | --- | --- |
| | II   Preparatory Acts |
| | Committee of the Regions |
| | 61st plenary session, held on 12 and 13 October 2005 |
| 2006/C 081/1 | Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the Communications from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament Prevention, preparedness and response to terrorist attacks Prevention of and the fight against terrorist financing through measures to improve the exchange of information, to strengthen transparency and enhance the traceability of financial transactions Preparedness and consequence management in the fight against terrorism Critical infrastructure protection in the fight against terrorism | 1 |
| 2006/C 081/2 | Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on Better Lawmaking 2004 and Better Regulation for Growth and Jobs in the European Union | 6 |
| 2006/C 081/3 | Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the Communication from the Commission Third progress report on cohesion: Towards a new partnership for growth, jobs and cohesion | 11 |
| 2006/C 081/4 | Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the Integrated Guidelines for Growth and Jobs (2005-2008) Communication from the President, in agreement with vice-President Verheugen and Commissioners Almunia and Spidla including a Commission recommendation on the broad guidelines for the economic policies of the Member States and the Community (under Article 99 of the EC Treaty) and a Proposal for a Council Decision on guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States (under Article 128 of the EC Treaty) | 13 |
| 2006/C 081/5 | Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the Communication from the Commission: Mobilising the brainpower of Europe: enabling universities to make their full contribution to the Lisbon Strategy | 16 |
| 2006/C 081/6 | Own-initiative Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on EU maritime policy — a question of sustainable development for local and regional authorities | 20 |
| 2006/C 081/7 | Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the Communication from the Commission to the Council, the European Parliament, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions: Winning the Battle Against Global Climate Change | 26 |
| 2006/C 081/8 | Opinion of the Committee of the Regions Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament The 2005 Review of the EU Sustainable Development Strategy: Initial Stocktaking and Future Orientations | 28 |
| 2006/C 081/9 | Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on The period of reflection: the structure, subjects and context for an assessment of the debate on the European Union | 32 |
| 2006/C 081/0 | Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on Women and Poverty in the European Union | 37 |
| 2006/C 081/1 | Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the Proposal for a Council Decision on the principles, priorities and conditions contained in the European Partnership with Croatia | 42 |
| 2006/C 081/2 | Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament on the Tenth anniversary of the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership: A work programme to meet the challenges of the next five years | 46 |

Notice No

Contents

page

II   Preparatory Acts

Committee of the Regions

61st plenary session, held on 12 and 13 October 2005

2006/C 081/1

Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the Communications from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament Prevention, preparedness and response to terrorist attacks Prevention of and the fight against terrorist financing through measures to improve the exchange of information, to strengthen transparency and enhance the traceability of financial transactions Preparedness and consequence management in the fight against terrorism Critical infrastructure protection in the fight against terrorism

1

2006/C 081/2

Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on Better Lawmaking 2004 and Better Regulation for Growth and Jobs in the European Union

6

2006/C 081/3

Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the Communication from the Commission Third progress report on cohesion: Towards a new partnership for growth, jobs and cohesion

11

2006/C 081/4

Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the Integrated Guidelines for Growth and Jobs (2005-2008) Communication from the President, in agreement with vice-President Verheugen and Commissioners Almunia and Spidla including a Commission recommendation on the broad guidelines for the economic policies of the Member States and the Community (under Article 99 of the EC Treaty) and a Proposal for a Council Decision on guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States (under Article 128 of the EC Treaty)

13

2006/C 081/5

Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the Communication from the Commission: Mobilising the brainpower of Europe: enabling universities to make their full contribution to the Lisbon Strategy

16

2006/C 081/6

Own-initiative Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on EU maritime policy — a question of sustainable development for local and regional authorities

20

2006/C 081/7

Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the Communication from the Commission to the Council, the European Parliament, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions: Winning the Battle Against Global Climate Change

26

2006/C 081/8

Opinion of the Committee of the Regions Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament The 2005 Review of the EU Sustainable Development Strategy: Initial Stocktaking and Future Orientations

28

2006/C 081/9

Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on The period of reflection: the structure, subjects and context for an assessment of the debate on the European Union

32

2006/C 081/0

Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on Women and Poverty in the European Union

37

2006/C 081/1

Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the Proposal for a Council Decision on the principles, priorities and conditions contained in the European Partnership with Croatia

42

2006/C 081/2

Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament on the Tenth anniversary of the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership: A work programme to meet the challenges of the next five years

46

| EN | |
| --- | --- |

EN

---

II Preparatory Acts

Committee of the Regions

61st plenary session, held on 12 and 13 October 2005

| 4.4.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 81/1 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

4.4.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 81/1

---

Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the Communications from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament Prevention, preparedness and response to terrorist attacks Prevention of and the fight against terrorist financing through measures to improve the exchange of information, to strengthen transparency and enhance the traceability of financial transactions Preparedness and consequence management in the fight against terrorism Critical infrastructure protection in the fight against terrorism

(2006/C 81/01)

THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS,

HAVING REGARD TO the Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament of 20 October 2004 on Prevention, preparedness and response to terrorist attacks (COM(2004) 698 final),

HAVING REGARD TO the Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament of 20 October 2004 on the Prevention of and the fight against terrorist financing through measures to improve the exchange of information, to strengthen transparency and enhance the traceability of financial transactions (COM(2004) 700 final),

HAVING REGARD TO the Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament of 20 October 2004 on Preparedness and consequence management in the fight against terrorism (COM(2004) 701 final),

HAVING REGARD TO the Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament of 20 October 2004 on Critical infrastructure protection in the fight against terrorism (COM(2004) 702 final),

HAVING REGARD TO the European Commission's decision of 12 November 2004 to consult it on these questions, in accordance with Article 265(1) of the Treaty establishing the European Community,

HAVING REGARD TO its President's decision of 3 November 2004 to instruct its Commission for Constitutional Affairs and European Governance to draw up an opinion on the subject,

HAVING REGARD TO the Treaty on the European Union and especially Title I Common provisions and Title VI Provisions on police and judicial cooperation in criminal matters and the Treaty establishing the European Community,

HAVING REGARD TO the Treaty establishing a Constitution for Europe signed on 29 October 2004 and in particular Title I Definition and objectives of the Union in the first part, the whole of the second part entitled The Charter of Fundamental Rights of the Union, Chapter IV Area of freedom, security and justice, and finally Title III Internal policies and activities in the third part,

HAVING REGARD TO the action programme to combat terrorism adopted by the European Council on 21 September 2001,

HAVING REGARD TO the revised action programme on combating terrorism adopted by the European Council on 18 June 2004,

HAVING REGARD TO the conclusions of the European Council of 17 December 2004,

HAVING REGARD TO the declaration of the European Council of 25 March 2004 on combating terrorism,

HAVING REGARD TO the framework decision of the Council of 13 June 2002 on combating terrorism,

HAVING REGARD TO the framework decision of the Council of 13 June 2002 on the European arrest warrant and extradition procedures between Member States,

HAVING REGARD TO the framework decision of the Council of 13 June 2002 on joint investigation groups,

HAVING REGARD TO the framework decision of the Council of 15 March 2001 on arrangements for victims in criminal proceedings,

HAVING REGARD TO the reports of the European Parliament on the referrals in question,

HAVING REGARD TO the local and regional dimension of the Area of Freedom, Security and Justice (CdR 61/2003 (1)),

HAVING REGARD TO its resolution in support of local elected representatives under threat in the Basque country (CdR 72/2003 fin (2)),

HAVING REGARD TO its opinion on the Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions on Reinforcing the civil protection capacity of the European Union (CdR 241/2003 fin (3)),

HAVING REGARD TO its opinion on the Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament on Crime Prevention in the European Union (CdR 355/2003 fin (4)),

HAVING REGARD TO the declaration on cross-frontier civil protection adopted at Udine on 27 May 2005 by its Commission for Sustainable Development,

HAVING REGARD TO its draft opinion (CdR 465/2004 rev.1) adopted on 14 June 2005 by its Commission for Constitutional Affairs and European Governance (rapporteur: Mrs Theodora Bakogianni, Mayor of Athens (EL/EPP),

| 1) | WHEREAS Article 2 of the Treaty on the European Union states as a main aim of the European Union the maintenance and development of the Union as a ‘area of freedom, security and justice’, this aim is reiterated in the Treaty establishing a Constitution for Europe and Article II-6 of Title II ‘Freedoms’ in the second part, Charter of fundamental rights of the Union, explicitly acknowledges ‘the right’ of every person ‘to freedom and security’, |
| --- | --- |

1)

WHEREAS Article 2 of the Treaty on the European Union states as a main aim of the European Union the maintenance and development of the Union as a ‘area of freedom, security and justice’, this aim is reiterated in the Treaty establishing a Constitution for Europe and Article II-6 of Title II ‘Freedoms’ in the second part, Charter of fundamental rights of the Union, explicitly acknowledges ‘the right’ of every person ‘to freedom and security’,

| 2) | WHEREAS the formation of a common European policy to tackle the terrorism and the coordinated action of the supranational and national authorities are absolutely necessary for the protection of the aforementioned right and the achievement of the aforementioned aim of the Union, |
| --- | --- |

2)

WHEREAS the formation of a common European policy to tackle the terrorism and the coordinated action of the supranational and national authorities are absolutely necessary for the protection of the aforementioned right and the achievement of the aforementioned aim of the Union,

| 3) | WHEREAS the risk from terrorism affects free, open democracy and victimises society itself, |
| --- | --- |

3)

WHEREAS the risk from terrorism affects free, open democracy and victimises society itself,

| 4) | WHEREAS real, effective protection of fundamental rights underpins the common European project and represents an essential, non-negotiable condition for establishing the EU action plan in the fight against terrorism, |
| --- | --- |

4)

WHEREAS real, effective protection of fundamental rights underpins the common European project and represents an essential, non-negotiable condition for establishing the EU action plan in the fight against terrorism,

| 5) | WHEREAS in many states the local and regional authorities are important responsibilities for matters relating to security and civil defence, are (also) responsible for implementing infrastructure policies, are closer to the citizen, and have the opportunity to contribute substantially to raising the awareness of European public opinion in the face of the terrorist threat, |
| --- | --- |

5)

WHEREAS in many states the local and regional authorities are important responsibilities for matters relating to security and civil defence, are (also) responsible for implementing infrastructure policies, are closer to the citizen, and have the opportunity to contribute substantially to raising the awareness of European public opinion in the face of the terrorist threat,

| 6) | WHEREAS, the local and regional authorities' representative body and supporter of proximity democracy in the context of Community decision-making procedure is directly involved in the application of the measures for tackling terrorism, |
| --- | --- |

6)

WHEREAS, the local and regional authorities' representative body and supporter of proximity democracy in the context of Community decision-making procedure is directly involved in the application of the measures for tackling terrorism,

unanimously adopted the following opinion at its 61st plenary session, held on 12 and 13 October 2005 (meeting of 12 October):

1.   The views of the Committee of the Regions

The Committee of the Regions

1.1   Comments on the Commission Communication on Prevention, preparedness and response to terrorist attacks

| 1.1.1 | thanks the European Commission for requesting an opinion which corresponds to the CoR's own suggestion and constitutes a useful precedent which compensates for the lack of a legal basis both in the current Treaties (Article 22 of the consolidated Treaty) and in the Treaty establishing a Constitution for Europe (Article III-129); |
| --- | --- |

1.1.1

thanks the European Commission for requesting an opinion which corresponds to the CoR's own suggestion and constitutes a useful precedent which compensates for the lack of a legal basis both in the current Treaties (Article 22 of the consolidated Treaty) and in the Treaty establishing a Constitution for Europe (Article III-129);

| 1.1.2 | expresses its satisfaction at the incorporation of the Charter on Fundamental Rights, which contains a specific chapter on protection of individual freedoms and justice, in the Constitutional Treaty: this confers on it binding legal effect and will help to build up an awareness in the European citizen that the Union is indeed developing as an ‘area of freedom, security and justice’; |
| --- | --- |

1.1.2

expresses its satisfaction at the incorporation of the Charter on Fundamental Rights, which contains a specific chapter on protection of individual freedoms and justice, in the Constitutional Treaty: this confers on it binding legal effect and will help to build up an awareness in the European citizen that the Union is indeed developing as an ‘area of freedom, security and justice’;

| 1.1.3 | applauds the Commission's proposals as expressed in its Communication on prevention, preparedness and response to terrorist attacks, with the comment that these observations have a general character, and in particular expresses its satisfaction at the general conclusion that tackling terrorism at its core requires the participation of the whole of society both in defining new means of prevention and suppression, and in defining new measures for monitoring an achievement of a balance between collective security and individual freedom; |
| --- | --- |

1.1.3

applauds the Commission's proposals as expressed in its Communication on prevention, preparedness and response to terrorist attacks, with the comment that these observations have a general character, and in particular expresses its satisfaction at the general conclusion that tackling terrorism at its core requires the participation of the whole of society both in defining new means of prevention and suppression, and in defining new measures for monitoring an achievement of a balance between collective security and individual freedom;

| 1.1.4 | calls for careful assessment of the possibility of taking measures to prevent the violent radicalisation of terrorism, given the main objective of ensuring the security of citizens; no such preventive action should lead in practice to jeopardising fundamental rights; |
| --- | --- |

1.1.4

calls for careful assessment of the possibility of taking measures to prevent the violent radicalisation of terrorism, given the main objective of ensuring the security of citizens; no such preventive action should lead in practice to jeopardising fundamental rights;

| 1.1.5 | recalls, however, that the decisions already taken at Community/Union level to tackle racism and xenophobia have not yet been implemented in all the Member States; |
| --- | --- |

1.1.5

recalls, however, that the decisions already taken at Community/Union level to tackle racism and xenophobia have not yet been implemented in all the Member States;

| 1.1.6 | points out that even in the context of the fight against terrorism prevention relates horizontally to many public policies set up by the local and regional authorities; |
| --- | --- |

1.1.6

points out that even in the context of the fight against terrorism prevention relates horizontally to many public policies set up by the local and regional authorities;

| 1.1.7 | considers it useful to begin a dialogue between the private and public sectors on security matters, while emphasising equally the risks which could arise from failing to respect the confidentiality of personal and commercial data which will be collected for security reasons; |
| --- | --- |

1.1.7

considers it useful to begin a dialogue between the private and public sectors on security matters, while emphasising equally the risks which could arise from failing to respect the confidentiality of personal and commercial data which will be collected for security reasons;

| 1.1.8 | expresses its total satisfaction with the efforts of the Commission to provide assistance to victims and/or their families after terrorist attacks, and with the raising of public awareness, and agrees with the setting-up of a mechanism to distribute the financial cost of a phenomenon which could cause exceptional damage anywhere in the European Union; |
| --- | --- |

1.1.8

expresses its total satisfaction with the efforts of the Commission to provide assistance to victims and/or their families after terrorist attacks, and with the raising of public awareness, and agrees with the setting-up of a mechanism to distribute the financial cost of a phenomenon which could cause exceptional damage anywhere in the European Union;

| 1.1.9 | takes the view that incorporating police and judicial cooperation in global policies will contribute to an effective response to terrorism, but points out that this presupposes a strict delimitation of the relevant powers and responsibilities; |
| --- | --- |

1.1.9

takes the view that incorporating police and judicial cooperation in global policies will contribute to an effective response to terrorism, but points out that this presupposes a strict delimitation of the relevant powers and responsibilities;

| 1.1.10 | agrees that tackling terrorism should be incorporated in the external relations of the European Union; |
| --- | --- |

1.1.10

agrees that tackling terrorism should be incorporated in the external relations of the European Union;

| 1.1.11 | takes the view that there is a need to strengthen the systems of internal communication between the relevant authorities at national and supranational level in the event of terrorist attack or a corresponding emergency situation, as well as between those authorities and the public, and regards as particularly important the implementation of the users' forum which will make possible the effective application of these systems; |
| --- | --- |

1.1.11

takes the view that there is a need to strengthen the systems of internal communication between the relevant authorities at national and supranational level in the event of terrorist attack or a corresponding emergency situation, as well as between those authorities and the public, and regards as particularly important the implementation of the users' forum which will make possible the effective application of these systems;

| 1.1.12 | thinks it necessary to develop closer cooperation between Europol and Eurojust on the one hand, and between the responsible national authorities in the field of information on the other, while stressing that this must be carried out within a clear institutional framework; |
| --- | --- |

1.1.12

thinks it necessary to develop closer cooperation between Europol and Eurojust on the one hand, and between the responsible national authorities in the field of information on the other, while stressing that this must be carried out within a clear institutional framework;

| 1.1.13 | agrees with the proposal to strengthen scientific research and technology in the field of security. |
| --- | --- |

1.1.13

agrees with the proposal to strengthen scientific research and technology in the field of security.

1.2   Comments on the Commission Communication on the Prevention of and fight against terrorist financing through measures to improve the exchange of information, to strengthen transparency and enhance the traceability of financial transactions

| 1.2.1 | agrees from the outset that the fight against terrorist financing includes improving cooperation in the field of information exchange, strengthening the capability to detect financial credit transactions and increasing the transparency of legal entities; |
| --- | --- |

1.2.1

agrees from the outset that the fight against terrorist financing includes improving cooperation in the field of information exchange, strengthening the capability to detect financial credit transactions and increasing the transparency of legal entities;

| 1.2.2 | expresses its satisfaction at the European Commission's concern to discover a balance — always difficult to achieve — between the activation of the above measures on the one hand and protection of individual liberties on the other, also taking account of the provisions of the Charter of Fundamental Rights; |
| --- | --- |

1.2.2

expresses its satisfaction at the European Commission's concern to discover a balance — always difficult to achieve — between the activation of the above measures on the one hand and protection of individual liberties on the other, also taking account of the provisions of the Charter of Fundamental Rights;

| 1.2.3 | notes the progress which has been made in the exchange of information between the relevant authorities and agrees with the activation of the joint investigation groups in which public prosecutors and judges participate; |
| --- | --- |

1.2.3

notes the progress which has been made in the exchange of information between the relevant authorities and agrees with the activation of the joint investigation groups in which public prosecutors and judges participate;

| 1.2.4 | points out that the development of further cooperation mechanisms, the exchange of information and reactions between public authorities and financial credit bodies presupposes the drawing-up of new provisions defining the specific powers and possibilities for making use of the relevant information; |
| --- | --- |

1.2.4

points out that the development of further cooperation mechanisms, the exchange of information and reactions between public authorities and financial credit bodies presupposes the drawing-up of new provisions defining the specific powers and possibilities for making use of the relevant information;

| 1.2.5 | takes the view that promoting the creation of national organisations responsible for the detection, blocking and confiscation of assets of suspected terrorists will be effective at inter-state level only if it is implemented in a uniform way in all the Member States, taking account of the differences observed in the various legal systems; |
| --- | --- |

1.2.5

takes the view that promoting the creation of national organisations responsible for the detection, blocking and confiscation of assets of suspected terrorists will be effective at inter-state level only if it is implemented in a uniform way in all the Member States, taking account of the differences observed in the various legal systems;

| 1.2.6 | underlines that, with regard to making full use of electronic proof in the courts, it would be necessary to take account of and examine problems which on the one hand concern the limits of use of the said proof and on the other hand the risk of intervention by third parties in the relevant programmes; |
| --- | --- |

1.2.6

underlines that, with regard to making full use of electronic proof in the courts, it would be necessary to take account of and examine problems which on the one hand concern the limits of use of the said proof and on the other hand the risk of intervention by third parties in the relevant programmes;

| 1.2.7 | agrees from the outset that additional legislative provisions will be necessary to ensure effective monitoring of cross-frontier movement of capital; |
| --- | --- |

1.2.7

agrees from the outset that additional legislative provisions will be necessary to ensure effective monitoring of cross-frontier movement of capital;

| 1.2.8 | maintains that defining a minimum basis of common rules for financial bodies in the EU, as regards checking the identity of clients, registering their identifying data and creating an electronic database centralising samples of identity cards, are measures which require processing by specialised experts to the extent that they encroach significantly on the individual right to protection of personal data; |
| --- | --- |

1.2.8

maintains that defining a minimum basis of common rules for financial bodies in the EU, as regards checking the identity of clients, registering their identifying data and creating an electronic database centralising samples of identity cards, are measures which require processing by specialised experts to the extent that they encroach significantly on the individual right to protection of personal data;

| 1.2.9 | thinks it necessary to develop a wider dialogue on the problems of introducing minimum rules for legislation concerning the transparency of the humanitarian or non-profit-making sector; |
| --- | --- |

1.2.9

thinks it necessary to develop a wider dialogue on the problems of introducing minimum rules for legislation concerning the transparency of the humanitarian or non-profit-making sector;

| 1.2.10 | notes that the difficulties encountered in drawing up a European list of terrorist organisations have not yet been overcome. |
| --- | --- |

1.2.10

notes that the difficulties encountered in drawing up a European list of terrorist organisations have not yet been overcome.

1.3   Comments on the Commission Communication on Preparedness and consequence management in the fight against terrorism

| 1.3.1 | expresses satisfaction with the proposal to strengthen the civil protection mechanism and agrees with the assessment that collective action, based on solidarity, can guarantee a timely and well targeted response to terrorist scenarios; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.1

expresses satisfaction with the proposal to strengthen the civil protection mechanism and agrees with the assessment that collective action, based on solidarity, can guarantee a timely and well targeted response to terrorist scenarios;

| 1.3.2 | underlines the importance of systematic training of the members of the services concerned, and regrets that up to now not all the Member States have given special attention to this; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.2

underlines the importance of systematic training of the members of the services concerned, and regrets that up to now not all the Member States have given special attention to this;

| 1.3.3 | agrees with the proposal to list all the resources of civil protection existing at European level to assist Member States hit by a terrorist attack, so as to achieve the most effective possible preparation for and management of the consequences of a terrorist attack at local and regional level; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.3

agrees with the proposal to list all the resources of civil protection existing at European level to assist Member States hit by a terrorist attack, so as to achieve the most effective possible preparation for and management of the consequences of a terrorist attack at local and regional level;

| 1.3.4 | takes the view that the Community mechanisms for health protection are particularly important, and thinks it essential for the national authorities to participate in them more widely in a coordinated way; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.4

takes the view that the Community mechanisms for health protection are particularly important, and thinks it essential for the national authorities to participate in them more widely in a coordinated way;

| 1.3.5 | is in favour of setting up a centralised alarm system combining the various European systems which are already operational, and of an alarm system for police services, and agrees on the need to set up a crisis management centre. |
| --- | --- |

1.3.5

is in favour of setting up a centralised alarm system combining the various European systems which are already operational, and of an alarm system for police services, and agrees on the need to set up a crisis management centre.

1.4   Comments on the Commission Communication on Critical infrastructure protection in the fight against terrorism

| 1.4.1 | agrees fully that a terrorist attack against infrastructure of vital importance, such as so-called cyber-terrorism, carries enormous risks with regard to effective tackling and management of the resulting crisis; |
| --- | --- |

1.4.1

agrees fully that a terrorist attack against infrastructure of vital importance, such as so-called cyber-terrorism, carries enormous risks with regard to effective tackling and management of the resulting crisis;

| 1.4.2 | regards as correct the criteria proposed for the definition of critical infrastructure and agrees that they should be refined also at national level, taking account of sectoral and collective experience, whilst emphasising that a homogeneous level of protection must be sought; |
| --- | --- |

1.4.2

regards as correct the criteria proposed for the definition of critical infrastructure and agrees that they should be refined also at national level, taking account of sectoral and collective experience, whilst emphasising that a homogeneous level of protection must be sought;

| 1.4.3 | points out that certain important steps have been taken at the level of Community legislation in the field of protection of critical infrastructure, and considers that it will need to take an active part from now on in the preparation of additional legislative proposals; |
| --- | --- |

1.4.3

points out that certain important steps have been taken at the level of Community legislation in the field of protection of critical infrastructure, and considers that it will need to take an active part from now on in the preparation of additional legislative proposals;

| 1.4.4 | supports the setting up of a European programme for protection of critical infrastructure and of a related alarm network, and wishes to point out that for these measures to be effective, it is essential for it to participate actively in their formulation and implementation. |
| --- | --- |

1.4.4

supports the setting up of a European programme for protection of critical infrastructure and of a related alarm network, and wishes to point out that for these measures to be effective, it is essential for it to participate actively in their formulation and implementation.

2.   Recommendations of the Committee of the Regions

The Committee of the Regions

2.1   Terrorist attacks: prevention, preparation and response

| 2.1.1 | Recommends that encouragement be given in an institutional framework to the communication policy against terrorism and the creation of relevant centres at local and regional levels, given that the development of a public debate is one of the best defences of an open democratic society against closed terrorist organisations; |
| --- | --- |

2.1.1

Recommends that encouragement be given in an institutional framework to the communication policy against terrorism and the creation of relevant centres at local and regional levels, given that the development of a public debate is one of the best defences of an open democratic society against closed terrorist organisations;

| 2.1.2 | proposes that the participation of local and regional authorities be sought when deciding on measures to combat racism and xenophobia, so as to facilitate the implementation of Community policy in this field; |
| --- | --- |

2.1.2

proposes that the participation of local and regional authorities be sought when deciding on measures to combat racism and xenophobia, so as to facilitate the implementation of Community policy in this field;

| 2.1.3 | suggests to the Council the setting-up of a European unit responsible for policies to assist the victims of terrorism, under the direct responsibility and competence of the European coordinator against terrorism; this unit should play a coordinating role vis-à-vis the national centres intended to provide support and assistance to the victims of terrorist attacks and their families, with the participation of representatives of the local and regional authorities; and calls for appropriate funds for this purpose to be provided from the Community budget; |
| --- | --- |

2.1.3

suggests to the Council the setting-up of a European unit responsible for policies to assist the victims of terrorism, under the direct responsibility and competence of the European coordinator against terrorism; this unit should play a coordinating role vis-à-vis the national centres intended to provide support and assistance to the victims of terrorist attacks and their families, with the participation of representatives of the local and regional authorities; and calls for appropriate funds for this purpose to be provided from the Community budget;

| 2.1.4 | proposes that an action programme be set up, in cooperation with the relevant institutional bodies of the European Union, to promote good neighbourhood relations with third countries, so as to back up the Community strategic policy of combating terrorism in the external relations field; |
| --- | --- |

2.1.4

proposes that an action programme be set up, in cooperation with the relevant institutional bodies of the European Union, to promote good neighbourhood relations with third countries, so as to back up the Community strategic policy of combating terrorism in the external relations field;

| 2.1.5 | urges the EU in its external relations and the Member States to help bring about the rapid conclusion of the Global Convention on international terrorism promoted by the United Nations. |
| --- | --- |

2.1.5

urges the EU in its external relations and the Member States to help bring about the rapid conclusion of the Global Convention on international terrorism promoted by the United Nations.

2.2   Preventing and combating the financing of terrorism through measures to improve the exchange of information, transparency and traceability of financial transactions

| 2.2.1 | recommends the establishment of more extensive monitoring, carried out by an independent body, of the practice of the relevant authorities when collecting and processing the information, and an improvement in the traceability of financial transactions; |
| --- | --- |

2.2.1

recommends the establishment of more extensive monitoring, carried out by an independent body, of the practice of the relevant authorities when collecting and processing the information, and an improvement in the traceability of financial transactions;

| 2.2.2 | reiterates in this context its invitation to the European Commission to present a proposal for protection and non-disclosure of personal data in the context of the fight against terrorism in order to protect the fundamental rights of citizens; |
| --- | --- |

2.2.2

reiterates in this context its invitation to the European Commission to present a proposal for protection and non-disclosure of personal data in the context of the fight against terrorism in order to protect the fundamental rights of citizens;

| 2.2.3 | proposes that a regulatory text should define the field of action of the local and regional authorities as regards the collection and structured exchange of information; |
| --- | --- |

2.2.3

proposes that a regulatory text should define the field of action of the local and regional authorities as regards the collection and structured exchange of information;

| 2.2.4 | advocates the setting up of a specialised commission to study attentively the establishment of national bodies responsible for detecting, tracking down, freezing and confiscating terrorist property, taking account of the disparities between the various legal systems of the Member States, and cooperation with other authorities at supranational and national levels, and at all events recommends envisaging a way for the courts to monitor the actions of those bodies; |
| --- | --- |

2.2.4

advocates the setting up of a specialised commission to study attentively the establishment of national bodies responsible for detecting, tracking down, freezing and confiscating terrorist property, taking account of the disparities between the various legal systems of the Member States, and cooperation with other authorities at supranational and national levels, and at all events recommends envisaging a way for the courts to monitor the actions of those bodies;

| 2.2.5 | calls for there to be an explicit legal basis for the participation of local and regional authorities in the consultative committee for research on security, and asks that the Community budget devote a specific heading to financing the research programmes in this field. |
| --- | --- |

2.2.5

calls for there to be an explicit legal basis for the participation of local and regional authorities in the consultative committee for research on security, and asks that the Community budget devote a specific heading to financing the research programmes in this field.

2.3   Fight against terrorism: preparation for and management of the consequences

| 2.3.1 | Proposes the establishment of systematic training of members of the civil protection services at local and regional levels, and advocates that it should cover, in particular, the field of support for use of the programme for management of problems, analysis of crises and communication with the public and that it should include an exchange of training programmes; |
| --- | --- |

2.3.1

Proposes the establishment of systematic training of members of the civil protection services at local and regional levels, and advocates that it should cover, in particular, the field of support for use of the programme for management of problems, analysis of crises and communication with the public and that it should include an exchange of training programmes;

| 2.3.2 | calls for an extension of its institutional role in the formulation of European policy in support of civil protection arrangements; |
| --- | --- |

2.3.2

calls for an extension of its institutional role in the formulation of European policy in support of civil protection arrangements;

| 2.3.3 | calls for specific provision to be made for a representative of local and regional authorities to form part of the crisis management centre; |
| --- | --- |

2.3.3

calls for specific provision to be made for a representative of local and regional authorities to form part of the crisis management centre;

| 2.3.4 | suggests the promotion of fully organised local networks which would serve as operational centres and would have strong alarm and coordination capacities for emergency situations, while being able to communicate with the relevant actors at national and supranational levels and to alert them; |
| --- | --- |

2.3.4

suggests the promotion of fully organised local networks which would serve as operational centres and would have strong alarm and coordination capacities for emergency situations, while being able to communicate with the relevant actors at national and supranational levels and to alert them;

| 2.3.5 | reiterates its call for the setting-up of a European Observatory for urban safety which would bring together representatives of the local and regional authorities of the Member States and provide the CoR and all other relevant European institutional bodies with all information on the planning of policies, the promotion and coordination of research, and the collection, organisation and processing of security data, particularly through the dissemination of examples and best practice and the building of regional and local partnerships. |
| --- | --- |

2.3.5

reiterates its call for the setting-up of a European Observatory for urban safety which would bring together representatives of the local and regional authorities of the Member States and provide the CoR and all other relevant European institutional bodies with all information on the planning of policies, the promotion and coordination of research, and the collection, organisation and processing of security data, particularly through the dissemination of examples and best practice and the building of regional and local partnerships.

2.4   Protection of critical infrastructure in the fight against terrorism

| 2.4.1 | proposes that a commission be set up with special responsibility for drawing up the criteria which the Member States will propose for defining critical infrastructure, and requests institutional provision for the participation in it of a representative of local and regional authorities for each Member State, with the aim of assisting the establishment and implementation of the European programme for protection of critical infrastructure; |
| --- | --- |

2.4.1

proposes that a commission be set up with special responsibility for drawing up the criteria which the Member States will propose for defining critical infrastructure, and requests institutional provision for the participation in it of a representative of local and regional authorities for each Member State, with the aim of assisting the establishment and implementation of the European programme for protection of critical infrastructure;

| 2.4.2 | advocates the establishment at national level of centres for the protection of each piece of critical infrastructure, which would include representatives of the local and regional authorities and would help to solve problems and put forward solutions by communicating and cooperating directly among themselves at horizontal level; |
| --- | --- |

2.4.2

advocates the establishment at national level of centres for the protection of each piece of critical infrastructure, which would include representatives of the local and regional authorities and would help to solve problems and put forward solutions by communicating and cooperating directly among themselves at horizontal level;

| 2.4.3 | recommends that certain members of the critical infrastructure services be systematically encouraged to acquire specialised training in the field of monitoring systems and IT networks. |
| --- | --- |

2.4.3

recommends that certain members of the critical infrastructure services be systematically encouraged to acquire specialised training in the field of monitoring systems and IT networks.

Brussels, 12 October 2005.

The President

of the Committee of the Regions

Peter STRAUB

---

(1)  OJ C 73 of 23.3.2004, p. 41.

1

(2)  OJ C 244 of 10.10.2003, p. 53.

2

(3)  OJ C 43 of 18.2.2005, p. 38.

3

(4)  OJ C 43 of 18.2.2005, p. 10.

4

---

| 4.4.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 81/6 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

4.4.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 81/6

---

Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on Better Lawmaking 2004 and Better Regulation for Growth and Jobs in the European Union

(2006/C 81/02)

THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS,

Having regard to the European Commission report of 21 March 2005 on Better Lawmaking 2004 COM(2005) 98 final and its annex SEC(2005) 364;

Having regard to the Communication from the European Commission of 16 March 2005 on Better Regulation for Growth and Jobs in the European Union COM(2005) 97 final and its annex SEC(2005) 175;

Having regard to the decision of the European Commission on 21 March 2005 to consult it on this subject, under the first paragraph of Article 265 of the Treaty establishing the European Community;

Having regard to the decision of its President of 20 January 2005 to instruct the Commission for Constitutional Affairs and European Governance to draw up an opinion on this subject;

Having regard to the Protocol governing arrangements for cooperation between the European Commission and the Committee of the Regions signed by their respective presidents on 20 September 2001 (DI CdR 81/2001 rev. 1);

Having regard to the White Paper on European governance of 25 July 2001 COM(2001) 428 final;

Having regard to its global opinion of 2 July 2003 on the Follow-up to the White Paper on European Governance (CdR 19/2003 fin (1));

Having regard to its opinion of 20 November 2003 on Better lawmaking 2002 and Updating and simplifying the Community acquis (CdR 62/2003 fin (2));

Having regard to the draft opinion of its Commission for Constitutional Affairs and European Governance on The application and monitoring of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality (CdR 220/2004);

Having regard to its draft opinion (CdR 121/2005 rev. 1) adopted on 14 June 2005 by its Commission for Constitutional Affairs and European Governance (rapporteur: Mr Delebarre, former Minister of State — Mayor of Dunkirk (FR/PES);

| 1) | Whereas it is important to take more account of the principles of subsidiarity, proportionality and proximity in order to develop simple and clear European legislation that can be readily understood by European citizens; |
| --- | --- |

1)

Whereas it is important to take more account of the principles of subsidiarity, proportionality and proximity in order to develop simple and clear European legislation that can be readily understood by European citizens;

| 2) | Whereas regional and local authorities, if appropriately involved in the preparation of legislative acts, can play a key role in transposing and implementing them in their own areas; |
| --- | --- |

2)

Whereas regional and local authorities, if appropriately involved in the preparation of legislative acts, can play a key role in transposing and implementing them in their own areas;

| 3) | Whereas new methods of European governance, such as extended impact assessments and the partnership approach of target-based tripartite contracts and agreements — to the success of which the Committee can make an active contribution — can bring added value; |
| --- | --- |

3)

Whereas new methods of European governance, such as extended impact assessments and the partnership approach of target-based tripartite contracts and agreements — to the success of which the Committee can make an active contribution — can bring added value;

adopted the following opinion unanimously at its 61st plenary session, held on 12 and 13 October 2005 (meeting of 12 October):

1.   The Committee of the Regions' views

1.1   Applying the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality

The Committee of the Regions

| 1.1.1 | wishes to expand upon the various opinions
   (3) on European governance and the constitutional process, which enshrines these principles, as well as upon its draft opinion on applying the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality
   (4); |
| --- | --- |

1.1.1

wishes to expand upon the various opinions
   (3) on European governance and the constitutional process, which enshrines these principles, as well as upon its draft opinion on applying the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality
   (4);

| 1.1.2 | notes the progress described in the European Commission's 12th annual review on Better lawmaking and emphasises the importance that should be attached to a more in-depth analysis of the methods of consultation and interinstitutional dialogue, prospective studies and impact assessments; |
| --- | --- |

1.1.2

notes the progress described in the European Commission's 12th annual review on Better lawmaking and emphasises the importance that should be attached to a more in-depth analysis of the methods of consultation and interinstitutional dialogue, prospective studies and impact assessments;

| 1.1.3 | believes that ‘better legislation’ and ‘better implementation’ of the EU's legislative acts — produced as a result of these consultations — are key objectives for both the European Commission and itself, and emphasises the role which its Bureau, at its meeting of 19 March 2004, decided it should play in coordinating this dialogue; |
| --- | --- |

1.1.3

believes that ‘better legislation’ and ‘better implementation’ of the EU's legislative acts — produced as a result of these consultations — are key objectives for both the European Commission and itself, and emphasises the role which its Bureau, at its meeting of 19 March 2004, decided it should play in coordinating this dialogue;

| 1.1.4 | points out that its recommendations have led to the adoption of an approach which ensures the closer involvement of local and regional authorities in implementing Community legislation (5), and appreciates the European Commission's mention of this fact in its report entitled Better lawmaking 2004; |
| --- | --- |

1.1.4

points out that its recommendations have led to the adoption of an approach which ensures the closer involvement of local and regional authorities in implementing Community legislation (5), and appreciates the European Commission's mention of this fact in its report entitled Better lawmaking 2004;

| 1.1.5 | regrets, however, that the European Commission has not given sufficient weight to its previous recommendations on the importance of consulting local and regional government in the early stages of drafting legislation
   (6), and hopes that the European Commission will in the future carry out reasonable assessments of the impact that certain measures could have on the financial requirements of local and regional authorities; |
| --- | --- |

1.1.5

regrets, however, that the European Commission has not given sufficient weight to its previous recommendations on the importance of consulting local and regional government in the early stages of drafting legislation
   (6), and hopes that the European Commission will in the future carry out reasonable assessments of the impact that certain measures could have on the financial requirements of local and regional authorities;

| 1.1.6 | appreciates the fact that the European Commission is following up the interinstitutional agreement adopted by the European Parliament, the Council of the European Union and the European Commission in December 2003 (7), in line with the action plan of June 2002; |
| --- | --- |

1.1.6

appreciates the fact that the European Commission is following up the interinstitutional agreement adopted by the European Parliament, the Council of the European Union and the European Commission in December 2003 (7), in line with the action plan of June 2002;

| 1.1.7 | welcomes the European Commission's plans to implement a framework programme for simplifying the acquis 2005-2009, as from October 2005, which takes on board the following recommendations made at The Hague (8), by the high-level meeting on Governance and the EU, which are crucial for regional and local authorities:






  — | application of the subsidiarity principle; |
| --- | --- | --- |

1.1.7

welcomes the European Commission's plans to implement a framework programme for simplifying the acquis 2005-2009, as from October 2005, which takes on board the following recommendations made at The Hague (8), by the high-level meeting on Governance and the EU, which are crucial for regional and local authorities:

—

application of the subsidiarity principle;

| — | follow-up of the White Paper of the European Commission — particularly on tripartite contracts or agreements and dialogue with local and regional associations; |
| --- | --- |

—

follow-up of the White Paper of the European Commission — particularly on tripartite contracts or agreements and dialogue with local and regional associations;

| — | application of EU law at regional and local level and the search for better regulation. |
| --- | --- |

—

application of EU law at regional and local level and the search for better regulation.

1.2   Structured dialogue, consultation processes and contract-based partnerships

The Committee of the Regions

| 1.2.1 | welcomes the fact that the European Commission has long (9) advocated developing strong ‘interaction with regional and local government and civil society’, at an early stage of policy framing, by introducing ongoing and systematic dialogue
   (10), with the added impetus of extensive consultation with regional authorities on areas for which they are responsible for transposition or implementation, including both itself and the relevant associations; |
| --- | --- |

1.2.1

welcomes the fact that the European Commission has long (9) advocated developing strong ‘interaction with regional and local government and civil society’, at an early stage of policy framing, by introducing ongoing and systematic dialogue
   (10), with the added impetus of extensive consultation with regional authorities on areas for which they are responsible for transposition or implementation, including both itself and the relevant associations;

| 1.2.2 | is pleased to note that the Spring European Council (11) has recently stated that ‘Alongside the governments, all the other players concerned — parliaments, regional and local bodies, social partners and civil society — should be stakeholders in the (Lisbon) Strategy and take an active part in attaining its objectives’; |
| --- | --- |

1.2.2

is pleased to note that the Spring European Council (11) has recently stated that ‘Alongside the governments, all the other players concerned — parliaments, regional and local bodies, social partners and civil society — should be stakeholders in the (Lisbon) Strategy and take an active part in attaining its objectives’;

| 1.2.3 | welcomes the signing of the first target-based tripartite agreement on urban transport mobility between the European Union, Italy and the region of Lombardy; |
| --- | --- |

1.2.3

welcomes the signing of the first target-based tripartite agreement on urban transport mobility between the European Union, Italy and the region of Lombardy;

| 1.2.4 | believes that by implementing the partnership principle, the weaknesses of the current system could be overcome and so provide real added value, promoting rapid realisation of well-defined joint objectives, without affecting the partners' institutional remits; |
| --- | --- |

1.2.4

believes that by implementing the partnership principle, the weaknesses of the current system could be overcome and so provide real added value, promoting rapid realisation of well-defined joint objectives, without affecting the partners' institutional remits;

| 1.2.5 | hopes, firstly, that this type of contract will become an effective instrument for involving regional and local authorities in a national strategic reference framework which leaves the regions sufficient room for manoeuvre to define their specific objectives and, secondly, that it is the signatories of a contract or agreement with the European Commission that will hold these powers, be they legislative or executive; |
| --- | --- |

1.2.5

hopes, firstly, that this type of contract will become an effective instrument for involving regional and local authorities in a national strategic reference framework which leaves the regions sufficient room for manoeuvre to define their specific objectives and, secondly, that it is the signatories of a contract or agreement with the European Commission that will hold these powers, be they legislative or executive;

| 1.2.6 | firmly trusts that more flexible arrangements for vertical decentralisation, and cooperation between different tiers of territorial authority, will be appropriately supplemented by new mechanisms for horizontal interregional cooperation and a partnership based on contractual ties of varying degrees with other local authorities or with the representatives of civil society, and possibly recourse to the expertise of existing interregional organisations. |
| --- | --- |

1.2.6

firmly trusts that more flexible arrangements for vertical decentralisation, and cooperation between different tiers of territorial authority, will be appropriately supplemented by new mechanisms for horizontal interregional cooperation and a partnership based on contractual ties of varying degrees with other local authorities or with the representatives of civil society, and possibly recourse to the expertise of existing interregional organisations.

1.3   Extended impact assessment and expertise

The Committee of the Regions

| 1.3.1 | welcomes the introduction in 2004 of a new method of impact analysis for the European Commission's major initiatives and the use of an instrument which enables the study of the economic, environmental and regulatory effects of a proposal and provides for consultation with interested parties and relevant experts; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.1

welcomes the introduction in 2004 of a new method of impact analysis for the European Commission's major initiatives and the use of an instrument which enables the study of the economic, environmental and regulatory effects of a proposal and provides for consultation with interested parties and relevant experts;

| 1.3.2 | nevertheless, considers it vital to take the regional impact of the European Commission's key initiatives into progressively greater account in order to better coordinate Community action; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.2

nevertheless, considers it vital to take the regional impact of the European Commission's key initiatives into progressively greater account in order to better coordinate Community action;

| 1.3.3 | in connection the measures proposed by the European Commission, is particularly sensitive to:






  — | the impact that certain measures may have on the finances of regional and local authorities |
| --- | --- | --- |

1.3.3

in connection the measures proposed by the European Commission, is particularly sensitive to:

—

the impact that certain measures may have on the finances of regional and local authorities

| — | better impact assessments with due regard to the costs for companies |
| --- | --- |

—

better impact assessments with due regard to the costs for companies

| — | a review of pending proposals, possible changes made to them or their withdrawal |
| --- | --- |

—

a review of pending proposals, possible changes made to them or their withdrawal

| — | stepping up the simplification procedure to increase competitiveness |
| --- | --- |

—

stepping up the simplification procedure to increase competitiveness

| — | pilot projects which focus on reducing the administrative workload |
| --- | --- |

—

pilot projects which focus on reducing the administrative workload

| — | considering alternatives to legislation (co-regulation and self-regulation) |
| --- | --- |

—

considering alternatives to legislation (co-regulation and self-regulation)

| — | the use of external experts |
| --- | --- |

—

the use of external experts

| — | wider consultation of citizens, businesses and NGOs via the internet. |
| --- | --- |

—

wider consultation of citizens, businesses and NGOs via the internet.

2.   Recommendations of the Committee of the Regions

2.1   Recommendations on the entire Better Lawmaking package

The Committee of the Regions

| 2.1.1 | welcomes the priority strategic objective that the European Commission has set itself for its five-year term concerning the ‘Better lawmaking’ action and the inter-institutional cooperation initiated on the issue; regrets, however, that the local and regional dimension has not been adequately recognised in this initiative and strongly urges the presidencies of the Council, the European Parliament and the Commission to involve it more closely; |
| --- | --- |

2.1.1

welcomes the priority strategic objective that the European Commission has set itself for its five-year term concerning the ‘Better lawmaking’ action and the inter-institutional cooperation initiated on the issue; regrets, however, that the local and regional dimension has not been adequately recognised in this initiative and strongly urges the presidencies of the Council, the European Parliament and the Commission to involve it more closely;

| 2.1.2 | recalls that under the Protocol on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality, included in the Constitutional Treaty, account can be taken of the European Union's regional and local dimension through extensive consultations prior to the adoption of all legislative acts and that, for every European framework law, a ‘subsidiarity statement’ must be drawn up in which the European Commission is to assess the regulatory and financial consequences of the framework law for regional and local authorities; and urges the Commission to take account of this forthwith with regard to existing European legislation, regardless of developments in the ratification process; |
| --- | --- |

2.1.2

recalls that under the Protocol on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality, included in the Constitutional Treaty, account can be taken of the European Union's regional and local dimension through extensive consultations prior to the adoption of all legislative acts and that, for every European framework law, a ‘subsidiarity statement’ must be drawn up in which the European Commission is to assess the regulatory and financial consequences of the framework law for regional and local authorities; and urges the Commission to take account of this forthwith with regard to existing European legislation, regardless of developments in the ratification process;

| 2.1.3 | wishes to exploit the space opened up by the Protocol on the application of the subsidiarity and proportionality principles in order to play a vital role between local and regional authorities and the European institutions for consultations, in line with the Protocol of cooperation with the European Commission
   (12); |
| --- | --- |

2.1.3

wishes to exploit the space opened up by the Protocol on the application of the subsidiarity and proportionality principles in order to play a vital role between local and regional authorities and the European institutions for consultations, in line with the Protocol of cooperation with the European Commission
   (12);

| 2.1.4 | intends to strengthen its action during the pre-legislative phase which will become crucial with respect to the need for greater efficiency and transparency and stronger democratic legitimacy of the EU, and therefore repeats its wish to be able to be involved in ‘consultation 'upstream' of decision-making’ and in the implementation of ‘co-regulation’ instruments which ought to be ‘an effective way of achieving EU objectives’; |
| --- | --- |

2.1.4

intends to strengthen its action during the pre-legislative phase which will become crucial with respect to the need for greater efficiency and transparency and stronger democratic legitimacy of the EU, and therefore repeats its wish to be able to be involved in ‘consultation 'upstream' of decision-making’ and in the implementation of ‘co-regulation’ instruments which ought to be ‘an effective way of achieving EU objectives’;

| 2.1.5 | recalls that the Constitutional Treaty confers joint responsibility upon it to apply and monitor the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality, by granting it new rights and duties as regards the development and implementation of Community legislation, thus enhancing its institutional impact within the EU; |
| --- | --- |

2.1.5

recalls that the Constitutional Treaty confers joint responsibility upon it to apply and monitor the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality, by granting it new rights and duties as regards the development and implementation of Community legislation, thus enhancing its institutional impact within the EU;

| 2.1.6 | intends to exercise this new responsibility to the full and take up the role of guardian of subsidiarity, which the Constitutional Treaty entrusts to it, and, if circumstances so require, to use its right of appeal to the Court of Justice of the European Union not only to defend its own prerogatives but also in cases of infringement of the principle of subsidiarity. In this latter case, it will do once an opinion has been adopted, fulfilling its consultative function under the Treaty, and without necessarily having carried out a critical assessment of compliance with the principle of subsidiarity; |
| --- | --- |

2.1.6

intends to exercise this new responsibility to the full and take up the role of guardian of subsidiarity, which the Constitutional Treaty entrusts to it, and, if circumstances so require, to use its right of appeal to the Court of Justice of the European Union not only to defend its own prerogatives but also in cases of infringement of the principle of subsidiarity. In this latter case, it will do once an opinion has been adopted, fulfilling its consultative function under the Treaty, and without necessarily having carried out a critical assessment of compliance with the principle of subsidiarity;

| 2.1.7 | considers that the impact of Community intervention could be reinforced via the avenues opened up by proportionality insofar as the choice of recommended instruments and the scope and intensity of the legislative proposal are the key criteria; |
| --- | --- |

2.1.7

considers that the impact of Community intervention could be reinforced via the avenues opened up by proportionality insofar as the choice of recommended instruments and the scope and intensity of the legislative proposal are the key criteria;

| 2.1.8 | wishes to contribute towards the quality of legislation by fostering a comprehensive and cooperative approach and improving collaboration among the three European levels of power: the European institutions, Member States and local and regional authorities, and particularly by participating in the organisation of discussion platforms between the latter and civil society; |
| --- | --- |

2.1.8

wishes to contribute towards the quality of legislation by fostering a comprehensive and cooperative approach and improving collaboration among the three European levels of power: the European institutions, Member States and local and regional authorities, and particularly by participating in the organisation of discussion platforms between the latter and civil society;

| 2.1.9 | would also wish to enhance its role as intermediary between the EU institutions and local and regional authorities:






  — | by taking an active part in the organisation and running of exchange networks designed to formalise cooperation between the various levels of local and regional authority, in particular with regard to the territorialisation of EU policies; and |
| --- | --- | --- |

2.1.9

would also wish to enhance its role as intermediary between the EU institutions and local and regional authorities:

—

by taking an active part in the organisation and running of exchange networks designed to formalise cooperation between the various levels of local and regional authority, in particular with regard to the territorialisation of EU policies; and

| — | by being closely involved in the European political agenda and in achieving the objectives of better European governance; |
| --- | --- |

—

by being closely involved in the European political agenda and in achieving the objectives of better European governance;

| 2.1.10 | confirms its intention to prepare itself to monitor compliance with the principle of subsidiarity, by on the one hand, drawing up a subsidiarity screening system to be appended to its opinions and, on the other hand, by gradually developing a network of local and regional authorities in order to monitor subsidiarity; |
| --- | --- |

2.1.10

confirms its intention to prepare itself to monitor compliance with the principle of subsidiarity, by on the one hand, drawing up a subsidiarity screening system to be appended to its opinions and, on the other hand, by gradually developing a network of local and regional authorities in order to monitor subsidiarity;

| 2.1.11 | restates its request for local and regional authorities to be involved in the early stages of drafting legislation, even if only in the interests of proper application of the Protocol on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality in connection with the budgetary consequences for local and regional authorities and compliance with the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality. |
| --- | --- |

2.1.11

restates its request for local and regional authorities to be involved in the early stages of drafting legislation, even if only in the interests of proper application of the Protocol on the application of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality in connection with the budgetary consequences for local and regional authorities and compliance with the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality.

2.2   Recommendations on the tripartite agreements and contracts

The Committee of the Regions

| 2.2.1 | invites the European Commission to restart the signing of tripartite agreements and contracts as a way of bringing together local and regional authorities, Member States and the Community as partners, and to extend the use of this instrument to other Community policy areas, particularly concerning major European infrastructure projects and the implementation of cohesion policy
   (13); |
| --- | --- |

2.2.1

invites the European Commission to restart the signing of tripartite agreements and contracts as a way of bringing together local and regional authorities, Member States and the Community as partners, and to extend the use of this instrument to other Community policy areas, particularly concerning major European infrastructure projects and the implementation of cohesion policy
   (13);

| 2.2.2 | recommends that the tripartite agreements and contracts which have made for a long and positive collaboration between the interested parties be rapidly concluded; |
| --- | --- |

2.2.2

recommends that the tripartite agreements and contracts which have made for a long and positive collaboration between the interested parties be rapidly concluded;

| 2.2.3 | believes that the first tripartite agreement signed between the European Union, Italy, and the Lombardy region on urban mobility, together with the experimental pilot projects on environmental issues, which were drafted with the public authorities of Birmingham, Lille and Pescara, will enable results and ‘good practice’ to be identified, which will be helpful in defining the appropriate methodology for future tripartite contracts; |
| --- | --- |

2.2.3

believes that the first tripartite agreement signed between the European Union, Italy, and the Lombardy region on urban mobility, together with the experimental pilot projects on environmental issues, which were drafted with the public authorities of Birmingham, Lille and Pescara, will enable results and ‘good practice’ to be identified, which will be helpful in defining the appropriate methodology for future tripartite contracts;

| 2.2.4 | insists on the fact that tripartite contracts constitute a governance instrument which aims to ensure that legislation and programmes with a strong territorial impact can be more flexibly and effectively implemented; |
| --- | --- |

2.2.4

insists on the fact that tripartite contracts constitute a governance instrument which aims to ensure that legislation and programmes with a strong territorial impact can be more flexibly and effectively implemented;

| 2.2.5 | calls upon the European Commission to establish specific financial provisions ensuring that local and regional authorities have the means they need to rapidly implement tripartite agreements and contracts, enabling them to perform their operational role in the field to the full and free of obstacle; |
| --- | --- |

2.2.5

calls upon the European Commission to establish specific financial provisions ensuring that local and regional authorities have the means they need to rapidly implement tripartite agreements and contracts, enabling them to perform their operational role in the field to the full and free of obstacle;

| 2.2.6 | asks the European Commission to reinforce horizontal coordination by its secretariat-general in the management of this experimental phase and its follow-up and to encourage the communication and promotion of this instrument; |
| --- | --- |

2.2.6

asks the European Commission to reinforce horizontal coordination by its secretariat-general in the management of this experimental phase and its follow-up and to encourage the communication and promotion of this instrument;

| 2.2.7 | recommends that the Council of the European Union provides more explicit support for the continuation of this initiative which is helping to reform European methods of governance; |
| --- | --- |

2.2.7

recommends that the Council of the European Union provides more explicit support for the continuation of this initiative which is helping to reform European methods of governance;

| 2.2.8 | recommends that, in all the arrangements to reinvigorate the Lisbon strategy, the European Commission should give careful consideration to the contribution that target-based tripartite contracts and agreements could make towards the success of this strategic process by allowing those regions that so wish to play a greater part in ensuring this. |
| --- | --- |

2.2.8

recommends that, in all the arrangements to reinvigorate the Lisbon strategy, the European Commission should give careful consideration to the contribution that target-based tripartite contracts and agreements could make towards the success of this strategic process by allowing those regions that so wish to play a greater part in ensuring this.

2.3   Recommendations on the impact assessment

The Committee of the Regions

| 2.3.1 | proposes that the introduction of a new impact assessment method for the European Commission's major initiatives should lead to the local and regional dimension being taken into account to the greatest possible extent in the ex ante phase of the legislative process; |
| --- | --- |

2.3.1

proposes that the introduction of a new impact assessment method for the European Commission's major initiatives should lead to the local and regional dimension being taken into account to the greatest possible extent in the ex ante phase of the legislative process;

| 2.3.2 | asks the European Commission to entrust it with drawing up prospective analyses falling within its remit, and, in particular, all major initiatives with a territorial impact; |
| --- | --- |

2.3.2

asks the European Commission to entrust it with drawing up prospective analyses falling within its remit, and, in particular, all major initiatives with a territorial impact;

| 2.3.3 | considers that a preliminary assessment on its part would be particularly important in terms of the application of non-regulatory instruments (co-regulation and self-regulation) and all information and coordination activities carried out at local and regional level; |
| --- | --- |

2.3.3

considers that a preliminary assessment on its part would be particularly important in terms of the application of non-regulatory instruments (co-regulation and self-regulation) and all information and coordination activities carried out at local and regional level;

| 2.3.4 | believes that impact assessments must play a substantial role in reducing the administrative burdens of EU legislation on local and regional authorities and that, consequently, preliminary assessments must include an impact assessment of legislative acts at local and regional level, in financial terms; |
| --- | --- |

2.3.4

believes that impact assessments must play a substantial role in reducing the administrative burdens of EU legislation on local and regional authorities and that, consequently, preliminary assessments must include an impact assessment of legislative acts at local and regional level, in financial terms;

| 2.3.5 | recommends that in reviewing the protocol for cooperation signed with the European Commission
   (14), the extended impact assessments should be used in order to define detailed evaluation and quality criteria for those who are to carry them out, and in order to establish a real strategy for consulting the grass roots at regional and local level; |
| --- | --- |

2.3.5

recommends that in reviewing the protocol for cooperation signed with the European Commission
   (14), the extended impact assessments should be used in order to define detailed evaluation and quality criteria for those who are to carry them out, and in order to establish a real strategy for consulting the grass roots at regional and local level;

| 2.3.6 | invites the European Commission to foster a more proactive role in the pre-legislative phase of Community action in the form of outlook opinions on future Community policies, which would focus on the impact on local and regional authorities, and in the form of reports on the local and regional impact of certain directives; |
| --- | --- |

2.3.6

invites the European Commission to foster a more proactive role in the pre-legislative phase of Community action in the form of outlook opinions on future Community policies, which would focus on the impact on local and regional authorities, and in the form of reports on the local and regional impact of certain directives;

| 2.3.7 | renews its recommendation to the European Commission to create an independent expert advisory group to monitor impact assessments, assure objectivity and encourage good practice, and to keep it briefed on its work so it can strengthen its the political role during later phases of the decision-making process (15); |
| --- | --- |

2.3.7

renews its recommendation to the European Commission to create an independent expert advisory group to monitor impact assessments, assure objectivity and encourage good practice, and to keep it briefed on its work so it can strengthen its the political role during later phases of the decision-making process (15);

| 2.3.8 | asks to be informed of the progress of the working group on managing and monitoring impact assessments that was created within the European Parliament, so that it can take part in the interinstitutional cooperation group which was set up by the European Parliament and, with the help of the European Commission and the Council, develop a set of common criteria to evaluate the quality of impact assessments and quantify the costs arising from legislative proposals. |
| --- | --- |

2.3.8

asks to be informed of the progress of the working group on managing and monitoring impact assessments that was created within the European Parliament, so that it can take part in the interinstitutional cooperation group which was set up by the European Parliament and, with the help of the European Commission and the Council, develop a set of common criteria to evaluate the quality of impact assessments and quantify the costs arising from legislative proposals.

2.4   Recommendations on improving the rules on growth and employment in the European Union

The Committee of the Regions

| 2.4.1 | notes, with great interest, the Council's concerns about reinvigorating the Lisbon process and the content of the communications (16) submitted by the European Commission with a view to establishing better regulation to pursue this process, as it considers that simplification and improvement of the regulatory framework are crucial at both national and EU level; |
| --- | --- |

2.4.1

notes, with great interest, the Council's concerns about reinvigorating the Lisbon process and the content of the communications (16) submitted by the European Commission with a view to establishing better regulation to pursue this process, as it considers that simplification and improvement of the regulatory framework are crucial at both national and EU level;

| 2.4.2 | endorses the European Commission's recommendation that better regulation should become an integral part of the national action plans on the Lisbon strategy and calls for the establishment of a joint work plan on Better regulation; |
| --- | --- |

2.4.2

endorses the European Commission's recommendation that better regulation should become an integral part of the national action plans on the Lisbon strategy and calls for the establishment of a joint work plan on Better regulation;

| 2.4.3 | proposes that the national action plans include a regional dimension with a view to ensuring that local administrative procedures are more flexible and effective and that the national programmes on the simplification of legislation — such as the ones proposed by the European Commission — pave the way for consultation with local and regional authorities by providing more information on the reform at regional and local level. |
| --- | --- |

2.4.3

proposes that the national action plans include a regional dimension with a view to ensuring that local administrative procedures are more flexible and effective and that the national programmes on the simplification of legislation — such as the ones proposed by the European Commission — pave the way for consultation with local and regional authorities by providing more information on the reform at regional and local level.

2.5   General recommendations

The Committee of the Regions

| 2.5.1 | calls upon the European Commission in particular to ensure, together with itself, more specific follow-up in connection with the present proposal, by means of a swifter and more political response; |
| --- | --- |

2.5.1

calls upon the European Commission in particular to ensure, together with itself, more specific follow-up in connection with the present proposal, by means of a swifter and more political response;

| 2.5.2 | lastly, intends to regularly evaluate the actions outlined in the action plan on Better lawmaking, particularly as regards its annual consultation on the report of the European Commission, and hopes that the European Commission will introduce a computerised system to facilitate access to information on the ongoing legislative process and therefore ensure that local and regional authorities receive better information on all the various stages of legislation. |
| --- | --- |

2.5.2

lastly, intends to regularly evaluate the actions outlined in the action plan on Better lawmaking, particularly as regards its annual consultation on the report of the European Commission, and hopes that the European Commission will introduce a computerised system to facilitate access to information on the ongoing legislative process and therefore ensure that local and regional authorities receive better information on all the various stages of legislation.

Brussels, 12 October 2005.

The President

of the Committee of the Regions

Peter STRAUB

---

(1)  OJ C 256 of 24.10.2003, p. 24.

1

(2)  OJ C 73 of 23.3.2004, p. 38.

2

(3)  Opinion CdR 50/99 fin (Better lawmaking 1998) - Opinion CdR 18/2000 fin (Better lawmaking 1999) - Opinion CdR 62/2003 fin (Better lawmaking 2002).

3

Better lawmaking 1998

Better lawmaking 1999

Better lawmaking 2002

(4)  Draft opinion of its Commission for Constitutional Affairs and European Governance of 5 February 2005 on The application and monitoring of the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality (CdR 220/2004).

4

(5)  See, for example, COM(2003) 811 final, Dialogue with associations of regional and local authorities on the formulation of European Union policy of 19 December 2003.

5

(6)  See opinion CdR 62/2003 fin.

6

(7)  Communication from the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on the interinstitutional agreement on Better lawmaking - OJ 2003/C 321/01 of 31 December 2003.

7

Better lawmaking

(8)  Conclusions and recommendations of the High-level Group on Governance and the EU, The Hague - 9 and 10 December 2004.

8

(9)  Communication from the European Commission on Dialogue with associations of regional and local authorities on the formulation of European Union policy, COM(2003) 811 final of 23 November 2003.

9

European Commission

Dialogue with associations of regional and local authorities on the formulation of European Union policy,

(10)  White Paper on European governance COM(2001) 428 final of 25 July 2001.

10

(11)  Presidency Conclusions, Brussels European Council of 22-23 March, 7619/05.

11

(12)  Protocol on cooperation between the Committee of the Regions and the Commission, signed in Brussels on 20 September 2001.

12

(13)  Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the Proposal for a Council Regulation laying down general provisions on the European Regional Development Fund, the European Social Fund and the Cohesion Fund - CdR 232/2004 fin of 13 April 2005.

13

Proposal for a Council Regulation laying down general provisions on the European Regional Development Fund, the European Social Fund and the Cohesion Fund

(14)  Protocol governing arrangements for cooperation between the European Commission and the Committee of the Regions, signedby their respective presidents on 20 September 2001 - DI CdR 81/2001 rev. 1.

14

(15)  Opinion CdR 62/2003 fin.

15

(16)  Communication on Better Regulation for Growth and Jobs in the European Union of 16 March 2005 - COM(2005) 97 final andits annex SEC(2005) 175 and Better lawmaking 2004 of 21 March 2005 - COM(2005) 98 final and its annex SEC(2005) 364.

16

Better Regulation for Growth and Jobs in the European Union

Better lawmaking 2004

---

| 4.4.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 81/11 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

4.4.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 81/11

---

Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the Communication from the Commission Third progress report on cohesion: Towards a new partnership for growth, jobs and cohesion

(2006/C 81/03)

THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS,

Having regard to the Communication of the European Commission — Third progress report on cohesion: Towards a new partnership for growth, jobs and cohesion, adopted on 17 May 2005 COM(2005) 192 final, {SEC(2005)632};

Having regard to the decision of the European Commission of 17 May 2005, to consult it on this subject, under the first paragraph of Article 265 of the Treaty establishing the European Community;

Having regard to the decision of its President of 19 May 2005 to instruct its Commission for Territorial Cohesion Policy to draw up an opinion on this subject;

Having regard to the Third report on economic and social cohesion — A new partnership for cohesion, convergence, competitiveness and cooperation — COM(2004) 107 final, adopted by the European Commission on 18 February 2004;

Having regard to its opinion on the Third Report on Economic and Social Cohesion (CdR 120/2004 fin) (1);

Having regard to its opinion on the financial perspective: Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament: Building Our Common Future: Policy Challenges and Budgetary Means of the Enlarged Union 2007-2013 (CdR 162/2004 fin) (2);

Having regard to its opinion on the Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) (CdR 233/2004 fin) (3);

Having regard to its opinion on the Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the Cohesion Fund (CdR 234/2004 fin) (4);

Having regard to its opinion on the Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the European Social Fund (CdR 240/2004 fin) (5);

Having regard to its opinion on the Proposal for a Council Regulation laying down general provisions on the European Regional Development Fund, the European Social Fund and the Cohesion Fund (CdR 232/2004 fin) (6);

Having regard to its draft opinion (CdR 141/2005 rev. 1) adopted on 24 June 2005 by its Commission for Territorial Cohesion Policy (rapporteur: Mr Michael Schneider, State Secretary, representative of Saxony-Anhalt to the Federal Government (DE/EPP);

adopted the following opinion at its 61st plenary session, held on 12/13 October 2005 (meeting of 12 October):

The views of the Committee of the Regions

I.   Continuing economic and social disparities in the enlarged Union

The Committee of the Regions

| 1. | considers the third progress report on cohesion to be an important document in taking forward the debate on the future organisation of cohesion policy in Europe; |
| --- | --- |

1.

considers the third progress report on cohesion to be an important document in taking forward the debate on the future organisation of cohesion policy in Europe;

| 2. | notes that the regional disparities in the enlarged Union remain great and that the regional GDP in the ten most prosperous regions was 153 % of that in the ten least prosperous ones; |
| --- | --- |

2.

notes that the regional disparities in the enlarged Union remain great and that the regional GDP in the ten most prosperous regions was 153 % of that in the ten least prosperous ones;

| 3. | notes that a total of 64 regions in the enlarged Union currently have a GDP below 75 % of the Community average and this affects 90 % of the population of the new Member States; |
| --- | --- |

3.

notes that a total of 64 regions in the enlarged Union currently have a GDP below 75 % of the Community average and this affects 90 % of the population of the new Member States;

| 4. | renews, therefore, its call to give these regions in particular support from the EU's structural policy funds; |
| --- | --- |

4.

renews, therefore, its call to give these regions in particular support from the EU's structural policy funds;

| 5. | points out that 3.5 % of the EU population live in regions affected by the so-called statistical effect and reiterates its call for a common and appropriate solution to be found for these regions, in line with the convergence objectives set out in the Third Report on Economic and Social Cohesion; |
| --- | --- |

5.

points out that 3.5 % of the EU population live in regions affected by the so-called statistical effect and reiterates its call for a common and appropriate solution to be found for these regions, in line with the convergence objectives set out in the Third Report on Economic and Social Cohesion;

| 6. | notes that a further 4 % of the EU population live in areas whose good economic progress has taken them over the 75 % threshold and supports the call of these regions for an adequate period of transition to the new competition objective; |
| --- | --- |

6.

notes that a further 4 % of the EU population live in areas whose good economic progress has taken them over the 75 % threshold and supports the call of these regions for an adequate period of transition to the new competition objective;

| 7. | endorses the finding of the progress report that, despite substantial productivity gains in recent years, a higher and more measured increase in both productivity and employment is needed to achieve convergence; |
| --- | --- |

7.

endorses the finding of the progress report that, despite substantial productivity gains in recent years, a higher and more measured increase in both productivity and employment is needed to achieve convergence;

| 8. | is concerned that regional disparities in some Member States have increased and in the light of this calls for greater efforts at both European and national levels; stresses simultaneously that disparities have been falling across the EU since 1995. This fall has been more rapid between countries than between regions; |
| --- | --- |

8.

is concerned that regional disparities in some Member States have increased and in the light of this calls for greater efforts at both European and national levels; stresses simultaneously that disparities have been falling across the EU since 1995. This fall has been more rapid between countries than between regions;

| 9. | highlights the report's finding that many new Member States will need sustained high growth for generations to come in order to reduce disparities; |
| --- | --- |

9.

highlights the report's finding that many new Member States will need sustained high growth for generations to come in order to reduce disparities;

| 10. | welcomes, therefore, the report's finding that the present level of disparities in the EU makes the need for an active cohesion policy more than clear; |
| --- | --- |

10.

welcomes, therefore, the report's finding that the present level of disparities in the EU makes the need for an active cohesion policy more than clear;

| 11. | points out, in this connection, that assistance to regions in a particularly difficult socio-economic situation must also include help for them to make the structural change to a knowledge-based society; |
| --- | --- |

11.

points out, in this connection, that assistance to regions in a particularly difficult socio-economic situation must also include help for them to make the structural change to a knowledge-based society;

| 12. | highlights the Commission's view that an active cohesion policy should not be limited to the least prosperous regions if growth and employment are to be promoted; |
| --- | --- |

12.

highlights the Commission's view that an active cohesion policy should not be limited to the least prosperous regions if growth and employment are to be promoted;

| 13. | wishes to express the need to implement the cohesion policy in regions suffering from natural structural handicaps such as islands and mountainous or sparsely-populated areas. |
| --- | --- |

13.

wishes to express the need to implement the cohesion policy in regions suffering from natural structural handicaps such as islands and mountainous or sparsely-populated areas.

II.   The EU's cohesion policy and the Lisbon Agenda

The Committee of the Regions

| 14. | welcomes the report's finding that more than half the measures in many programmes implement the Lisbon Agenda specifically; |
| --- | --- |

14.

welcomes the report's finding that more than half the measures in many programmes implement the Lisbon Agenda specifically;

| 15. | stresses the importance of the planning process in developing regional aid hot spots and innovation strategies and calls for help to local and regional authorities as they administer and implement structural fund assistance; |
| --- | --- |

15.

stresses the importance of the planning process in developing regional aid hot spots and innovation strategies and calls for help to local and regional authorities as they administer and implement structural fund assistance;

| 16. | welcomes the increased use of structural funds, implemented in many mid-term evaluations, to promote growth and jobs; but at the same time stresses the need to simplify the procedures for redirecting and adapting structural fund programmes; |
| --- | --- |

16.

welcomes the increased use of structural funds, implemented in many mid-term evaluations, to promote growth and jobs; but at the same time stresses the need to simplify the procedures for redirecting and adapting structural fund programmes;

| 17. | reiterates, in this connection, its criticism of the Commission's present proposals for revising the procedure for allocating the performance reserve and its distribution in 2011 to the Member States by the Council. The Committee of the Regions considers that it should be the Member States, working closely with the Commission, that evaluate the performance mid-way through the programme and allocate commitment appropriations to operating programmes and to the priorities that they deem to be the most efficient; |
| --- | --- |

17.

reiterates, in this connection, its criticism of the Commission's present proposals for revising the procedure for allocating the performance reserve and its distribution in 2011 to the Member States by the Council. The Committee of the Regions considers that it should be the Member States, working closely with the Commission, that evaluate the performance mid-way through the programme and allocate commitment appropriations to operating programmes and to the priorities that they deem to be the most efficient;

| 18. | agrees with the Commission that the structural funds got off to a good start in the new Member States and reiterates the Committee's interest in keeping to the 4 % absorption ceiling for using structural funds in the Member States; |
| --- | --- |

18.

agrees with the Commission that the structural funds got off to a good start in the new Member States and reiterates the Committee's interest in keeping to the 4 % absorption ceiling for using structural funds in the Member States;

| 19. | notes that only nine of the thirteen Member States falling at least partially under Objective 1 have respected the additionality principle and in the light of this points out that when deciding if additionality is being observed under Article 11 of the Regulation laying down general provisions on the Structural Funds, (7) the following must all be taken into account: the relevant general economic conditions, specific economic conditions, privatisations and any exceptionally high level of public structural expenditure in the preceding period. It must be also stressed that the Structural Funds are having a significant leverage effect in urban and rural areas, in maintaining high levels of public investment compatible with their efforts to ensure sound public finances; |
| --- | --- |

19.

notes that only nine of the thirteen Member States falling at least partially under Objective 1 have respected the additionality principle and in the light of this points out that when deciding if additionality is being observed under Article 11 of the Regulation laying down general provisions on the Structural Funds, (7) the following must all be taken into account: the relevant general economic conditions, specific economic conditions, privatisations and any exceptionally high level of public structural expenditure in the preceding period. It must be also stressed that the Structural Funds are having a significant leverage effect in urban and rural areas, in maintaining high levels of public investment compatible with their efforts to ensure sound public finances;

| 20. | reiterates, therefore, its call to continue to allow private funding to be used together with structural fund expenditure to avoid even greater pressure on regional and local budgets, while keeping a high level of public investment at the regional and local level. |
| --- | --- |

20.

reiterates, therefore, its call to continue to allow private funding to be used together with structural fund expenditure to avoid even greater pressure on regional and local budgets, while keeping a high level of public investment at the regional and local level.

III.   The future of the cohesion policy and the agenda for growth and employment

The Committee of the Regions

| 21. | notes that its views on the future organisation of structural policy are in the main supported by the European Parliament and the European Economic and Social Committee; |
| --- | --- |

21.

notes that its views on the future organisation of structural policy are in the main supported by the European Parliament and the European Economic and Social Committee;

| 22. | stresses the need to mobilise local and regional players for the future implementation of the structural policy and reiterates its interest in continuing to play an active part, by holding joint events and conferences, in the debate on economic, social and regional cohesion; |
| --- | --- |

22.

stresses the need to mobilise local and regional players for the future implementation of the structural policy and reiterates its interest in continuing to play an active part, by holding joint events and conferences, in the debate on economic, social and regional cohesion;

| 23. | after the issues of the European Summit on 16-17 June, is concerned that Member States still hold widely differing views on the future financing of the European Union and is especially concerned that delayed agreement will jeopardise a smooth start to the next funding period, and lead to financial instability across the local and regional authorities of the EU. The current crisis will also have negative economic effects, above all in the new Member States; |
| --- | --- |

23.

after the issues of the European Summit on 16-17 June, is concerned that Member States still hold widely differing views on the future financing of the European Union and is especially concerned that delayed agreement will jeopardise a smooth start to the next funding period, and lead to financial instability across the local and regional authorities of the EU. The current crisis will also have negative economic effects, above all in the new Member States;

| 24. | calls on the Member States, therefore, to decide quickly on the future financing of the European Union; |
| --- | --- |

24.

calls on the Member States, therefore, to decide quickly on the future financing of the European Union;

| 25. | warns against losing sight of the cohesion policy goals at a time when state assistance is generally falling, and reiterates its interest in a balanced and adequate aid policy in the European Union which takes account of the conclusions of the Stockholm European Council, held on 23 and 24 March 2001; |
| --- | --- |

25.

warns against losing sight of the cohesion policy goals at a time when state assistance is generally falling, and reiterates its interest in a balanced and adequate aid policy in the European Union which takes account of the conclusions of the Stockholm European Council, held on 23 and 24 March 2001;

| 26. | welcomes the prompt presentation of the strategic guidelines for planning the new aid programmes and announces that the Committee will react to this in a separate report. |
| --- | --- |

26.

welcomes the prompt presentation of the strategic guidelines for planning the new aid programmes and announces that the Committee will react to this in a separate report.

Brussels, 12 October 2005

The President

of the Committee of the Regions

Peter STRAUB

---

(1)  OJ C 318 of 22.12.2004, p. 1.

1

(2)  OJ C 164 of 5.7.2005, p. 4.

2

(3)  OJ C 231 of 20.9.2005, p. 19.

3

(4)  OJ C 231 of 20.9.2005, p. 35.

4

(5)  OJ C 164 of 5.7.2005, p. 48.

5

(6)  OJ C 231 of 20.9.2005, p. 1.

6

(7)  Council Regulation (EC) No. 1260/1999 of 21 June 1999 laying down general provisions on the Structural Funds, OJ L 161 of 20.6.1999, p. 1.

7

---

| 4.4.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 81/13 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

4.4.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 81/13

---

Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the Integrated Guidelines for Growth and Jobs (2005-2008) Communication from the President, in agreement with vice-President Verheugen and Commissioners Almunia and Spidla including a Commission recommendation on the broad guidelines for the economic policies of the Member States and the Community (under Article 99 of the EC Treaty) and a Proposal for a Council Decision on guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States (under Article 128 of the EC Treaty)

(2006/C 81/04)

THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS,

Having regard to the Integrated guidelines for growth and jobs (2005-2008), including a Commission recommendation on the broad guidelines for the economic policies of the Member States and the Community (under Article 99 of the EC Treaty) and a Proposal for a Council Decision on guidelines for the employment policies of the Member States COM(2005) 141 final — 2005/0057 (CNS);

Having regard to the decision of the European Commission of 12 April 2005 and of the Council of 22 April 2005 to consult it on this subject, under the first paragraph of art. 265 and 128 of the Treaty establishing the European Community;

Having regard to its President's decision of 19 May 2005 to instruct the Commission for Economic and Social Policy to draw up an opinion on this subject;

Having regard to the Resolution of the Committee of the Regions on revitalising the Lisbon strategy adopted on 24 February 2005;

Having regard to its draft opinion (CdR 147/2005 rev. 1) adopted on 29 June 2005 by its Commission for Economic and Social Policy (Rapporteur: Mrs Pauliina Haijanen, Member of the Board, Regional Council of Southwest Finland, and member of Laitila Town Council (FI-EPP);

unanimously adopted the following opinion at its 61st plenary session, held on 12 and 13 October 2005 (meeting of 12 October):

1.   The Committee of the Regions' views

General comments

The Committee of the Regions

| 1.1 | believes that the approach to gear the integrated guidelines towards increasing growth and jobs must be implemented with the aim of achieving greater social cohesion improving public welfare and quality of life; greater competitiveness and investment and a sustained high level of social protection are pre-requisites to achieving this; |
| --- | --- |

1.1

believes that the approach to gear the integrated guidelines towards increasing growth and jobs must be implemented with the aim of achieving greater social cohesion improving public welfare and quality of life; greater competitiveness and investment and a sustained high level of social protection are pre-requisites to achieving this;

| 1.2 | reiterates its call for an intensified, more decentralised implementation of the Lisbon Strategy, in line with the conclusions of the Lisbon European Council which states that ‘A fully decentralised approach (to the implementation of the Lisbon Strategy) will be applied in line with the principle of subsidiarity in which the Union, the Member States, the regional and local levels, as well as the social partners and civil society, will be actively involved, using variable forms of partnership’; |
| --- | --- |

1.2

reiterates its call for an intensified, more decentralised implementation of the Lisbon Strategy, in line with the conclusions of the Lisbon European Council which states that ‘A fully decentralised approach (to the implementation of the Lisbon Strategy) will be applied in line with the principle of subsidiarity in which the Union, the Member States, the regional and local levels, as well as the social partners and civil society, will be actively involved, using variable forms of partnership’;

| 1.3 | nevertheless, considers that the integrated guidelines present an improved methodology in as much as they reflect compatibility between the European Union's economic and social policies and signal a willingness to move further towards simplifying the EU's macroeconomic governance instruments and making them easier to understand; |
| --- | --- |

1.3

nevertheless, considers that the integrated guidelines present an improved methodology in as much as they reflect compatibility between the European Union's economic and social policies and signal a willingness to move further towards simplifying the EU's macroeconomic governance instruments and making them easier to understand;

| 1.4 | believes that in improving growth and jobs the aim must be to maintain and increase the welfare of all citizens across the whole of the Community and to enable them to develop their full potential in society; |
| --- | --- |

1.4

believes that in improving growth and jobs the aim must be to maintain and increase the welfare of all citizens across the whole of the Community and to enable them to develop their full potential in society;

| 1.5 | believes that weak social development ultimately also slows economic growth; |
| --- | --- |

1.5

believes that weak social development ultimately also slows economic growth;

| 1.6 | considers wage growth to be an important measure of social development from an international perspective; |
| --- | --- |

1.6

considers wage growth to be an important measure of social development from an international perspective;

| 1.7 | believes that its proposals for assessing the added value created by devolution and ensuring the participation of local and regional authorities in preparing and implementing the guidelines have not been adequately applied; |
| --- | --- |

1.7

believes that its proposals for assessing the added value created by devolution and ensuring the participation of local and regional authorities in preparing and implementing the guidelines have not been adequately applied;

| 1.8 | underlines its willingness to actively participate in the new Lisbon process and contribute every year to the Spring European Council, believes that the increased participation of regional and local authorities in the governance cycle at the European level will provide active partnering opportunities in the development of European decision-making and raise the level of awareness with regard to the regional dimension. |
| --- | --- |

1.8

underlines its willingness to actively participate in the new Lisbon process and contribute every year to the Spring European Council, believes that the increased participation of regional and local authorities in the governance cycle at the European level will provide active partnering opportunities in the development of European decision-making and raise the level of awareness with regard to the regional dimension.

2.   The Committee of the Regions' recommendations

The Committee of the Regions

| 2.1 | considers it important for local and regional government to be actively involved in the practical implementation of the integrated guidelines and recommends further that the necessary conditions be established for taking the views of local and regional authorities into account, also during the phases of preparing and reviewing the guidelines; |
| --- | --- |

2.1

considers it important for local and regional government to be actively involved in the practical implementation of the integrated guidelines and recommends further that the necessary conditions be established for taking the views of local and regional authorities into account, also during the phases of preparing and reviewing the guidelines;

| 2.2 | believes it is important to improve the scope for local and regional authorities to shape and strengthen underlying economic conditions, which are the key to their vitality. Developing the services provided by local and regional authorities should be considered as one possible approach; |
| --- | --- |

2.2

believes it is important to improve the scope for local and regional authorities to shape and strengthen underlying economic conditions, which are the key to their vitality. Developing the services provided by local and regional authorities should be considered as one possible approach;

| 2.3 | considers it important that the services provided by local and regional authorities be developed so as to become more profitable and more competitive. To achieve this, services should be made easier to organise by removing rules and regulations and other obstacles, which hinder innovation and creativity in the development of competitive public services, provided national and EU minimum standards are respected; |
| --- | --- |

2.3

considers it important that the services provided by local and regional authorities be developed so as to become more profitable and more competitive. To achieve this, services should be made easier to organise by removing rules and regulations and other obstacles, which hinder innovation and creativity in the development of competitive public services, provided national and EU minimum standards are respected;

| 2.4 | considers it important in relation to extending and deepening the internal market for services that attention be paid to providing services to regions that are difficult to reach and sparsely populated; it is essential for the efficient functioning of the internal market to clarify what is meant by the concepts of the general economic interest and services of general interest; |
| --- | --- |

2.4

considers it important in relation to extending and deepening the internal market for services that attention be paid to providing services to regions that are difficult to reach and sparsely populated; it is essential for the efficient functioning of the internal market to clarify what is meant by the concepts of the general economic interest and services of general interest;

| 2.5 | considers it important to develop social dialogue in order to have a strong input from the social partners into the reform effort. |
| --- | --- |

2.5

considers it important to develop social dialogue in order to have a strong input from the social partners into the reform effort.

The integrated guidelines and national reform programmes

| 2.6 | proposes that in order to increase the involvement of regional and local authorities, social partners and civil society the integrated guidelines should in future mention the drawing up of concrete objectives based on the local and regional perspective; |
| --- | --- |

2.6

proposes that in order to increase the involvement of regional and local authorities, social partners and civil society the integrated guidelines should in future mention the drawing up of concrete objectives based on the local and regional perspective;

| 2.7 | believes it is important to ensure that the Member States have enough time to prepare the national reform programmes in collaboration with local and regional authorities, and therefore recommends that the Commission also prepare an indicative timetable for this phase of the guideline process; |
| --- | --- |

2.7

believes it is important to ensure that the Member States have enough time to prepare the national reform programmes in collaboration with local and regional authorities, and therefore recommends that the Commission also prepare an indicative timetable for this phase of the guideline process;

| 2.8 | recommends that more specific provisions be drafted for strengthening the proposed partnership with local and regional authorities. This factor should be considered not just in the guidelines but also in particular when preparing the European Social Fund strategies: the ESR strategies should support the partnership proposed in the guidelines, as well as the development of new models of cooperation between different spheres of government and the social partners; |
| --- | --- |

2.8

recommends that more specific provisions be drafted for strengthening the proposed partnership with local and regional authorities. This factor should be considered not just in the guidelines but also in particular when preparing the European Social Fund strategies: the ESR strategies should support the partnership proposed in the guidelines, as well as the development of new models of cooperation between different spheres of government and the social partners;

| 2.9 | suggests that citizens should be informed about the drawing up of the guidelines and national reform programmes in a way that emphasises the European nature of the objectives and reform needs and that also fosters the involvement of civil society throughout the Union in developing the new objectives and measures; |
| --- | --- |

2.9

suggests that citizens should be informed about the drawing up of the guidelines and national reform programmes in a way that emphasises the European nature of the objectives and reform needs and that also fosters the involvement of civil society throughout the Union in developing the new objectives and measures;

| 2.10 | considers it important to ensure that preparation of the reform programme is seen in the context of the objectives of the cohesion and social funds, the social inclusion programmes and the Community's training policy processes; |
| --- | --- |

2.10

considers it important to ensure that preparation of the reform programme is seen in the context of the objectives of the cohesion and social funds, the social inclusion programmes and the Community's training policy processes;

| 2.11 | considers it important to assess the extent to which abolishing state aids is a realistic option in those sparsely populated regions where competing private entities are not available as an alternative to publicly funded services; |
| --- | --- |

2.11

considers it important to assess the extent to which abolishing state aids is a realistic option in those sparsely populated regions where competing private entities are not available as an alternative to publicly funded services;

| 2.12 | notes that investment in developing human resources is critical and promotes economic growth and jobs in many ways, e.g. by encouraging innovations and their application, and by making it easier for employees and organisations to adapt to the challenges of change; |
| --- | --- |

2.12

notes that investment in developing human resources is critical and promotes economic growth and jobs in many ways, e.g. by encouraging innovations and their application, and by making it easier for employees and organisations to adapt to the challenges of change;

| 2.13 | recommends that the Member States encourage local and regional authorities to learn from the experiences of other EU countries with reforming services in different types of municipalities and regions; |
| --- | --- |

2.13

recommends that the Member States encourage local and regional authorities to learn from the experiences of other EU countries with reforming services in different types of municipalities and regions;

| 2.14 | urges that steps be taken to establish how remuneration schemes can be developed to take better account of regional productivity differences; |
| --- | --- |

2.14

urges that steps be taken to establish how remuneration schemes can be developed to take better account of regional productivity differences;

| 2.15 | considers it important that the ability of local and regional authorities to compete for skilled labour should properly be taken into account when the national reform programmes are drawn up and that the means be provided to maintain the fitness for work and motivation of older staff; |
| --- | --- |

2.15

considers it important that the ability of local and regional authorities to compete for skilled labour should properly be taken into account when the national reform programmes are drawn up and that the means be provided to maintain the fitness for work and motivation of older staff;

| 2.16 | draws attention to the role of education and training policy in underpinning democratic society and developing human resources; |
| --- | --- |

2.16

draws attention to the role of education and training policy in underpinning democratic society and developing human resources;

| 2.17 | emphasises the role of local and regional stakeholders in forecasting demand for and supply of manpower and training and in coordinating information, and proposes that examples of good practice be compiled here; |
| --- | --- |

2.17

emphasises the role of local and regional stakeholders in forecasting demand for and supply of manpower and training and in coordinating information, and proposes that examples of good practice be compiled here;

| 2.18 | considers it important to develop wide-ranging qualifications that allow people to move from one activity to another with further training; |
| --- | --- |

2.18

considers it important to develop wide-ranging qualifications that allow people to move from one activity to another with further training;

| 2.19 | emphasises that national decision-making powers and national requirements should be taken into account when organising training services and improving the equivalence of vocational qualifications; |
| --- | --- |

2.19

emphasises that national decision-making powers and national requirements should be taken into account when organising training services and improving the equivalence of vocational qualifications;

| 2.20 | notes that increasing the employment rate and lifelong learning require an extensive network of training services that responds flexibly to demand. Distance learning can be one means of achieving this. Labour policy training and vocational training should be clearly defined and duplication eliminated; |
| --- | --- |

2.20

notes that increasing the employment rate and lifelong learning require an extensive network of training services that responds flexibly to demand. Distance learning can be one means of achieving this. Labour policy training and vocational training should be clearly defined and duplication eliminated;

| 2.21 | recommends that flexible learning approaches be developed to meet the needs of young people and adults, and that on-the-job training be promoted. When developing training schemes it is important to reconcile the needs and capacities of employers and staff, and to take the special training needs of business owners into account; |
| --- | --- |

2.21

recommends that flexible learning approaches be developed to meet the needs of young people and adults, and that on-the-job training be promoted. When developing training schemes it is important to reconcile the needs and capacities of employers and staff, and to take the special training needs of business owners into account;

| 2.22 | endorses promotion of the lifecycle approach to work and development of inclusive labour markets, but stresses that extra tasks must not be imposed on local and regional authorities without providing them with the necessary resources. Reform must not be implemented in a way that would put the services and staff of local and regional authorities at a disadvantage compared with other players; |
| --- | --- |

2.22

endorses promotion of the lifecycle approach to work and development of inclusive labour markets, but stresses that extra tasks must not be imposed on local and regional authorities without providing them with the necessary resources. Reform must not be implemented in a way that would put the services and staff of local and regional authorities at a disadvantage compared with other players;

| 2.23 | considers it important to develop and strengthen measures to settle immigrants and integrate them into society and working life, and recommends that more information be made available on the results of studies relating to integration and on good practice; |
| --- | --- |

2.23

considers it important to develop and strengthen measures to settle immigrants and integrate them into society and working life, and recommends that more information be made available on the results of studies relating to integration and on good practice;

| 2.24 | urges that ways be sought of enabling employers who recruit staff from abroad to take part in designing and funding measures to promote integration, and of developing cooperation in this area between local and regional authorities; |
| --- | --- |

2.24

urges that ways be sought of enabling employers who recruit staff from abroad to take part in designing and funding measures to promote integration, and of developing cooperation in this area between local and regional authorities;

| 2.25 | highlights the need for measures to improve capacity to forecast the impact of globalisation on regional business activity and to develop measures that help companies to adapt and remain competitive and also measures which facilitate rapid retraining and re-employment of workers in case of closure or relocation. |
| --- | --- |

2.25

highlights the need for measures to improve capacity to forecast the impact of globalisation on regional business activity and to develop measures that help companies to adapt and remain competitive and also measures which facilitate rapid retraining and re-employment of workers in case of closure or relocation.

Brussels, 12 October 2005.

The President

of the Committee of the Regions

Peter STRAUB

---

| 4.4.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 81/16 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

4.4.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 81/16

---

Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the Communication from the Commission: Mobilising the brainpower of Europe: enabling universities to make their full contribution to the Lisbon Strategy

(2006/C 81/05)

THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS,

Having regard to the Communication from the Commission: Mobilising the brainpower of Europe: enabling universities to make their full contribution to the Lisbon Strategy (COM(2005) 152 final);

Having regard to the decision of the European Commission of 3 June 2005 to consult it on this subject, under the first paragraph of Article 265 of the Treaty establishing the European Community;

Having regard to the decision of its Bureau of 12 April 2005 to instruct its Commission for Culture and Education to draw up an opinion on this subject;

Having regard to the decision of the Lisbon European Council approving the concept of the European Research Area and thus laying the foundations for a common European policy on science and technology;

Having regard to the opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the Mid-term review of the Lisbon Strategy (CdR 152/2004 fin) (1);

Having regard to the Communication from the Commission ‘The role of universities in the Europe of knowledge’
   (2) and the outlook opinion of the CoR on The role of universities in local and regional development within the context of a Europe of knowledge (CdR 89/2003 fin) (3);

Having regard to the opinion of the Committee of the Regions on Establishing an integrated action programme in the field of lifelong learning (CdR 258/2004 fin);

Having regard to the opinion of the Commission for Culture and Education, adopted on 11 July 2005 (CdR 154/2005 rev. 1) (rapporteur: Mr Gerd Harms, Delegate to the Federation and for European Affairs of the Land of Brandenburg, State Secretary in the State Chancellery (DE/PES));

Whereas:

| 1. | the Commission's Communication must be seen in the context of the general European ‘Growth Through Knowledge’ strategy. A society's capacity to innovate depends on education and research. The objectives of the Lisbon Strategy can only be achieved by means of global competition in which research, education and training play a key role. This means that universities have a key role to play in the Lisbon process; |
| --- | --- |

1.

the Commission's Communication must be seen in the context of the general European ‘Growth Through Knowledge’ strategy. A society's capacity to innovate depends on education and research. The objectives of the Lisbon Strategy can only be achieved by means of global competition in which research, education and training play a key role. This means that universities have a key role to play in the Lisbon process;

| 2. | in 20 years time, only 5 % of the world's population will live and work in Europe, compared with 52 % in Asia. These statistics reflect the urgent need for radical measures to make the European educational and research environment more attractive. The attractiveness of universities is a key factor in Europe's efforts to build up the brainpower which it needs to secure its future; |
| --- | --- |

2.

in 20 years time, only 5 % of the world's population will live and work in Europe, compared with 52 % in Asia. These statistics reflect the urgent need for radical measures to make the European educational and research environment more attractive. The attractiveness of universities is a key factor in Europe's efforts to build up the brainpower which it needs to secure its future;

| 3. | access to education must be as inclusive as possible, not only in order to secure the future of a Europe of knowledge, but also to serve as a basis for the social cohesion of European countries and of Europe as a whole. The main challenges faced at all levels are to remove barriers to education, to make lifelong learning options available to all, and to enhance the quality of education systems; |
| --- | --- |

3.

access to education must be as inclusive as possible, not only in order to secure the future of a Europe of knowledge, but also to serve as a basis for the social cohesion of European countries and of Europe as a whole. The main challenges faced at all levels are to remove barriers to education, to make lifelong learning options available to all, and to enhance the quality of education systems;

| 4. | as part of its efforts to give the Lisbon strategy a new impetus, the European Commission has proposed a package of measures to meet these challenges proactively. The Seventh Research Framework Programme is one of the main activities within the remit of the European Commission. Reforms of education and higher education are needed to ensure that the potential identified in the framework programme can be incorporated into the European innovation process; |
| --- | --- |

4.

as part of its efforts to give the Lisbon strategy a new impetus, the European Commission has proposed a package of measures to meet these challenges proactively. The Seventh Research Framework Programme is one of the main activities within the remit of the European Commission. Reforms of education and higher education are needed to ensure that the potential identified in the framework programme can be incorporated into the European innovation process;

| 5. | the European regions, which have significant powers in relation to scientific education and research, have a special role to play in this process. The Committee of the Regions recognises that local and regional authorities have a special role to play, particularly as a communication channel to all citizens. Local and regional authorities can also promote collaboration between networks in order to create synergies between the various stakeholders. The development of European regions is closely dependent on how they use scientific, research and innovation potential. The process of building up this potential in Europe can only succeed with the involvement of the regions; |
| --- | --- |

5.

the European regions, which have significant powers in relation to scientific education and research, have a special role to play in this process. The Committee of the Regions recognises that local and regional authorities have a special role to play, particularly as a communication channel to all citizens. Local and regional authorities can also promote collaboration between networks in order to create synergies between the various stakeholders. The development of European regions is closely dependent on how they use scientific, research and innovation potential. The process of building up this potential in Europe can only succeed with the involvement of the regions;

unanimously adopted the following opinion at its 61st plenary session (meeting of 12 October), held on 12-13 October 2005:

1.   The Committee of the Regions' views and recommendations

General comments

The Committee of the Regions

| 1.1 | welcomes the Communication from the Commission: Mobilising the brainpower of Europe: enabling universities to make their full contribution to the Lisbon Strategy, and sees it as an important boost for the much-needed Europe-wide debate on improving university education; |
| --- | --- |

1.1

welcomes the Communication from the Commission: Mobilising the brainpower of Europe: enabling universities to make their full contribution to the Lisbon Strategy, and sees it as an important boost for the much-needed Europe-wide debate on improving university education;

| 1.2 | reiterates that higher education establishments and universities, referred to as ‘universities’ in the Communication, are very diverse. The present opinion also uses the term in this broader sense; |
| --- | --- |

1.2

reiterates that higher education establishments and universities, referred to as ‘universities’ in the Communication, are very diverse. The present opinion also uses the term in this broader sense;

| 1.3 | shares the Commission's view that future growth and social welfare will rely increasingly on knowledge-intensive industries and services, and that ever more jobs will require tertiary qualifications; |
| --- | --- |

1.3

shares the Commission's view that future growth and social welfare will rely increasingly on knowledge-intensive industries and services, and that ever more jobs will require tertiary qualifications;

| 1.4 | acknowledges the need for a fundamental shift in European higher education policy, taking into account the needs of local and regional authorities while enabling research and teaching of sufficient standard to compete at international level; |
| --- | --- |

1.4

acknowledges the need for a fundamental shift in European higher education policy, taking into account the needs of local and regional authorities while enabling research and teaching of sufficient standard to compete at international level;

| 1.5 | would point out in this context that there are excellent universities in Europe, where research achievements and the teaching of future scientists are outstanding even by international standards; however, at the same time there are many universities which are unable to deliver their full potential, as discussed in the Commission's Communication; |
| --- | --- |

1.5

would point out in this context that there are excellent universities in Europe, where research achievements and the teaching of future scientists are outstanding even by international standards; however, at the same time there are many universities which are unable to deliver their full potential, as discussed in the Commission's Communication;

| 1.6 | welcomes the clear reference to subsidiarity, but would place additional emphasis on the role of the regions, as set out in the White Paper on European Governance 2001 and enshrined in the draft constitutional Treaty; |
| --- | --- |

1.6

welcomes the clear reference to subsidiarity, but would place additional emphasis on the role of the regions, as set out in the White Paper on European Governance 2001 and enshrined in the draft constitutional Treaty;

| 1.7 | emphasises that, economic considerations aside, university education also offers social and cultural added value which, although not measurable in terms of economic benefits, still constitutes the foundation of a developed society; |
| --- | --- |

1.7

emphasises that, economic considerations aside, university education also offers social and cultural added value which, although not measurable in terms of economic benefits, still constitutes the foundation of a developed society;

| 1.8 | emphasises that the ambitious goals which prompted the Communication can only be achieved if the basic conditions are in place in terms of general school and pre-school education, and acknowledges that the regional level has a special role to play here; |
| --- | --- |

1.8

emphasises that the ambitious goals which prompted the Communication can only be achieved if the basic conditions are in place in terms of general school and pre-school education, and acknowledges that the regional level has a special role to play here;

| 1.9 | believes that universities should be more closely involved in the concept of lifelong learning with a view to achieving the objectives of the Lisbon strategy; |
| --- | --- |

1.9

believes that universities should be more closely involved in the concept of lifelong learning with a view to achieving the objectives of the Lisbon strategy;

| 1.10 | is of the opinion that rapidly changing social expectations of higher education can be most effectively met by means of flexible structures. Although establishing such structures is primarily a matter for universities, national and regional government also bear responsibility for ensuring that the conditions for flexibility are in place by removing legal restrictions and providing the necessary resources; |
| --- | --- |

1.10

is of the opinion that rapidly changing social expectations of higher education can be most effectively met by means of flexible structures. Although establishing such structures is primarily a matter for universities, national and regional government also bear responsibility for ensuring that the conditions for flexibility are in place by removing legal restrictions and providing the necessary resources;

| 1.11 | regrets that the European Commission was unable to draft an inter-departmental communication covering all aspects of European higher education policy, including research. The European Research Area and the ‘Regions of Knowledge’ heading in the Commission's proposal for the Seventh Research Framework Programme are of special relevance to higher education in Europe, particularly with regard to achieving the Lisbon objectives; |
| --- | --- |

1.11

regrets that the European Commission was unable to draft an inter-departmental communication covering all aspects of European higher education policy, including research. The European Research Area and the ‘Regions of Knowledge’ heading in the Commission's proposal for the Seventh Research Framework Programme are of special relevance to higher education in Europe, particularly with regard to achieving the Lisbon objectives;

| 1.12 | notes that treating research as a separate category severs the link between research, training of future scientists and academic qualifications for a scientific career, and between university and non-university research. |
| --- | --- |

1.12

notes that treating research as a separate category severs the link between research, training of future scientists and academic qualifications for a scientific career, and between university and non-university research.

2.   Increasing challenges

The Committee of the Regions

| 2.1 | shares the Commission's concern that the educational resources of European countries are not being sufficiently developed, and considers the Commission's analysis to be a useful basis for approaching areas in which change is needed; |
| --- | --- |

2.1

shares the Commission's concern that the educational resources of European countries are not being sufficiently developed, and considers the Commission's analysis to be a useful basis for approaching areas in which change is needed;

| 2.2 | feels, however, that the statistics included in the Communication give a distorted picture of the actual situation in many European countries. In particular, the low percentage of university students and graduates does not take into account the many European students studying at polytechnics or participating in vocational training, whereas in North America and Asia comparable courses are offered by universities; |
| --- | --- |

2.2

feels, however, that the statistics included in the Communication give a distorted picture of the actual situation in many European countries. In particular, the low percentage of university students and graduates does not take into account the many European students studying at polytechnics or participating in vocational training, whereas in North America and Asia comparable courses are offered by universities;

| 2.3 | agrees with the analysis of factors preventing dynamic development of the higher education sector, in particular a marked tendency for universities to isolate themselves from business and society, over-regulation of higher education systems due to ex-ante checks by government, and the relative poverty of the European higher education sector as a result of its dependency on state funding; |
| --- | --- |

2.3

agrees with the analysis of factors preventing dynamic development of the higher education sector, in particular a marked tendency for universities to isolate themselves from business and society, over-regulation of higher education systems due to ex-ante checks by government, and the relative poverty of the European higher education sector as a result of its dependency on state funding;

| 2.4 | would emphasise that the quality of higher education establishments in Europe is still generally high, and that many universities have long since undertaken the necessary changes described in the Communication, or are in the process of doing so, although in many cases without deliberately aligning themselves with the Lisbon objectives. The fact that many universities have not heard of the Bologna process does not warrant a negative assessment of European universities; |
| --- | --- |

2.4

would emphasise that the quality of higher education establishments in Europe is still generally high, and that many universities have long since undertaken the necessary changes described in the Communication, or are in the process of doing so, although in many cases without deliberately aligning themselves with the Lisbon objectives. The fact that many universities have not heard of the Bologna process does not warrant a negative assessment of European universities;

| 2.5 | supports the endeavours of the Bologna process to set up a common higher education area, but notes that this should reflect the diversity of national and regional approaches to higher education. The Committee of the Regions does not share the concerns expressed in the Communication with regard to linguistic diversity. |
| --- | --- |

2.5

supports the endeavours of the Bologna process to set up a common higher education area, but notes that this should reflect the diversity of national and regional approaches to higher education. The Committee of the Regions does not share the concerns expressed in the Communication with regard to linguistic diversity.

3.   The core modernisation agenda: attractiveness, governance, funding

The Committee of the Regions

| 3.1 | reiterates its view that the Bologna process sets concrete and relevant objectives for developing higher education in the EU, with the aim of creating a European area of higher education by the year 2010. In particular, these concern adopting a system of comparable degrees, based on two-cycle credit systems, mobility, quality assurance and promotion of the European dimension. The Committee notes that not enough has yet been done to achieve these objectives, and that not only universities, but also regions, Member States and the European Union will have to step up their efforts; |
| --- | --- |

3.1

reiterates its view that the Bologna process sets concrete and relevant objectives for developing higher education in the EU, with the aim of creating a European area of higher education by the year 2010. In particular, these concern adopting a system of comparable degrees, based on two-cycle credit systems, mobility, quality assurance and promotion of the European dimension. The Committee notes that not enough has yet been done to achieve these objectives, and that not only universities, but also regions, Member States and the European Union will have to step up their efforts;

| 3.2 | shares the Commission's view that universities need local support in order to make the necessary changes. Local and regional authorities have long collaborated with universities and other establishments to provide support for the requisite measures; |
| --- | --- |

3.2

shares the Commission's view that universities need local support in order to make the necessary changes. Local and regional authorities have long collaborated with universities and other establishments to provide support for the requisite measures;

| 3.3 | welcomes the call for an across-the-board ‘culture of excellence’, and sees scientific faculties and networks of innovative scientists as key players in the process of calling for and promoting excellence. Incentives for excellence in teaching and research must be consistently enhanced and supported; |
| --- | --- |

3.3

welcomes the call for an across-the-board ‘culture of excellence’, and sees scientific faculties and networks of innovative scientists as key players in the process of calling for and promoting excellence. Incentives for excellence in teaching and research must be consistently enhanced and supported;

| 3.4 | acknowledges and agrees with the Commission's analysis of the factors involved in making universities more attractive. Human resources is one area in which there are numerous opportunities for universities to become more European in outlook; |
| --- | --- |

3.4

acknowledges and agrees with the Commission's analysis of the factors involved in making universities more attractive. Human resources is one area in which there are numerous opportunities for universities to become more European in outlook;

| 3.5 | welcomes the Erasmus programme's more ambitious aim to cover 3 million students; |
| --- | --- |

3.5

welcomes the Erasmus programme's more ambitious aim to cover 3 million students;

| 3.6 | endorses the Commission's view that partnership between higher education and industry is especially important, but feels that other areas of the economy, public administration, culture and social organisations are partners. Given the contribution of science to regional development, the restriction to partnerships with industry is too narrow; |
| --- | --- |

3.6

endorses the Commission's view that partnership between higher education and industry is especially important, but feels that other areas of the economy, public administration, culture and social organisations are partners. Given the contribution of science to regional development, the restriction to partnerships with industry is too narrow;

| 3.7 | is concerned that universities have not yet sufficiently taken on board the need to open themselves up to new groups of learners, to emphasise lifelong learning and to offer wider access to academic education, as essential conditions for coping with demographic and structural changes over the next few decades. It therefore welcomes moves to place this issue at the top of the agenda for a Europe-wide debate, and promises to support the Commission in doing so; |
| --- | --- |

3.7

is concerned that universities have not yet sufficiently taken on board the need to open themselves up to new groups of learners, to emphasise lifelong learning and to offer wider access to academic education, as essential conditions for coping with demographic and structural changes over the next few decades. It therefore welcomes moves to place this issue at the top of the agenda for a Europe-wide debate, and promises to support the Commission in doing so;

| 3.8 | notes that competition and rising standards in higher education must not cause European regions to drift apart in terms of scientific achievements; Europe is characterised by its broad educational base, and this must be preserved. Every European region must have higher education facilities which meet European quality standards; |
| --- | --- |

3.8

notes that competition and rising standards in higher education must not cause European regions to drift apart in terms of scientific achievements; Europe is characterised by its broad educational base, and this must be preserved. Every European region must have higher education facilities which meet European quality standards;

| 3.9 | emphasises that, while the Commission's call for more and better financial backing for universities is understandable, it does not adequately reflect the actual circumstances of many European regions, where (non-higher) education and training are often the budgetary priorities; |
| --- | --- |

3.9

emphasises that, while the Commission's call for more and better financial backing for universities is understandable, it does not adequately reflect the actual circumstances of many European regions, where (non-higher) education and training are often the budgetary priorities;

| 3.10 | stresses that the local and regional authorities represented in the Committee of the Regions are willing to enter into joint discussions with universities on institutional modernisation strategies, and to implement them wherever possible. This would involve multi-annual contracts, support for innovative university management and even greater openness on the part of universities to partnerships with industry. |
| --- | --- |

3.10

stresses that the local and regional authorities represented in the Committee of the Regions are willing to enter into joint discussions with universities on institutional modernisation strategies, and to implement them wherever possible. This would involve multi-annual contracts, support for innovative university management and even greater openness on the part of universities to partnerships with industry.

4.   Priorities for action

The Committee of the Regions

| 4.1 | recommends compiling a summary of priorities in the fields of education, higher education and research, in order to focus attention on links and on the resulting options for implementation of the Lisbon strategy; |
| --- | --- |

4.1

recommends compiling a summary of priorities in the fields of education, higher education and research, in order to focus attention on links and on the resulting options for implementation of the Lisbon strategy;

| 4.2 | emphasises that comprehensive and Europe-wide recognition of degrees is a pre-condition for effective structural change in universities. The quantitative comparability of studies envisaged by the Bologna process is an important basis for such recognition. To ensure equitable and effective access to the European Higher Education Area for all regions, it would be useful to build on such measures by launching a debate at European level on qualitative standards; |
| --- | --- |

4.2

emphasises that comprehensive and Europe-wide recognition of degrees is a pre-condition for effective structural change in universities. The quantitative comparability of studies envisaged by the Bologna process is an important basis for such recognition. To ensure equitable and effective access to the European Higher Education Area for all regions, it would be useful to build on such measures by launching a debate at European level on qualitative standards;

| 4.3 | points out that Marie Curie actions have already proved useful in promoting the mobility of scientists under the European research framework programme. Additional measures at European level in this area as suggested in the Communication would dissipate resources and makes no sense. The Committee encourages the Commission to further strengthen the Marie Curie actions promoting mobility of scientists and to take steps to improve the conditions for mobility, as set out in the European Charter for Researchers; |
| --- | --- |

4.3

points out that Marie Curie actions have already proved useful in promoting the mobility of scientists under the European research framework programme. Additional measures at European level in this area as suggested in the Communication would dissipate resources and makes no sense. The Committee encourages the Commission to further strengthen the Marie Curie actions promoting mobility of scientists and to take steps to improve the conditions for mobility, as set out in the European Charter for Researchers;

| 4.4 | emphasises that the debate on study fees can only be conducted in a national or regional context; |
| --- | --- |

4.4

emphasises that the debate on study fees can only be conducted in a national or regional context;

| 4.5 | rejects the Commission's proposal to guide student choices by introducing differential fee and grant systems. The freedom of individuals to make educational choices must not be constrained by attempts at state control; |
| --- | --- |

4.5

rejects the Commission's proposal to guide student choices by introducing differential fee and grant systems. The freedom of individuals to make educational choices must not be constrained by attempts at state control;

| 4.6 | endorses the Commission's view that all sources of EU funding should be mobilised for the modernisation of universities, but urges the Commission to include appropriate provisions in the Structural Funds regulations to strengthen the position of science in the competition for national resources, and to emphasise the need for development in the field of higher education; |
| --- | --- |

4.6

endorses the Commission's view that all sources of EU funding should be mobilised for the modernisation of universities, but urges the Commission to include appropriate provisions in the Structural Funds regulations to strengthen the position of science in the competition for national resources, and to emphasise the need for development in the field of higher education;

| 4.7 | emphasises the need for universities to have as much freedom in organising teaching and research as possible, within the framework of national and regional remits. Strategic multi-annual framework agreements should be used to define the balance between freedom and responsibility, thus enabling transparent and effective ex-post surveillance of progress towards objectives. With this in mind, the Committee of the Regions would emphasise the role of the regions in the development of higher education and the contribution of universities to regional development. |
| --- | --- |

4.7

emphasises the need for universities to have as much freedom in organising teaching and research as possible, within the framework of national and regional remits. Strategic multi-annual framework agreements should be used to define the balance between freedom and responsibility, thus enabling transparent and effective ex-post surveillance of progress towards objectives. With this in mind, the Committee of the Regions would emphasise the role of the regions in the development of higher education and the contribution of universities to regional development.

| 4.8 | calls on the Commission to take appropriate measures to achieve recognition for regions, municipalities and towns in the context of boosting the regional involvement of universities and research institutes, stimulating interaction between science, business and public administration, and enhancing the social impact of scientific institutions. This could be achieved through a competition. |
| --- | --- |

4.8

calls on the Commission to take appropriate measures to achieve recognition for regions, municipalities and towns in the context of boosting the regional involvement of universities and research institutes, stimulating interaction between science, business and public administration, and enhancing the social impact of scientific institutions. This could be achieved through a competition.

Brussels, 12 October 2005.

The President

of the Committee of the Regions

Peter STRAUB

---

(1)  OJ C 43, 18.2.2005, p. 1.

1

(2)  COM(2003) 58 final.

2

(3)  OJ C 73, 23.3.2004, p. 22.

3

---

| 4.4.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 81/20 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

4.4.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 81/20

---

Own-initiative Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on EU maritime policy — a question of sustainable development for local and regional authorities

(2006/C 81/06)

THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS,

HAVING REGARD TO the decision of the Bureau of the Committee of the Regions, at its meeting on 25 January 2005, to instruct the Commission for Sustainable Development (DEVE) to draw up an own-initiative opinion under Article 265 of the EC Treaty on EU maritime policy — a question of sustainable development for local and regional authorities;

HAVING REGARD TO the 2005 work programme (1) of the Committee of the Regions' Commission for Sustainable Development (DEVE), which is to pay ‘particular attention to the integrated, horizontal approach to EU maritime policy’;

HAVING REGARD TO Articles I-13 and I-14 of the Treaty establishing a Constitution for Europe (2), which refers to aspects of maritime policy;

HAVING REGARD TO the opinion of the Committee of the Regions of 9 April 2003 on the Commission Communication Towards a strategy to protect and conserve the marine environment, COM(2002) 539 final (3);

HAVING REGARD TO the Commission Communication of 2 March 2005Towards a future EU maritime policy: a European vision for oceans and seas;

HAVING REGARD TO the Commission Communication of 26 January 2005 on Strategic objectives 2005-2009
   (4), which refers to the particular need for ‘an all-embracing maritime policy aimed at developing a thriving maritime economy and the full potential of sea-based activity in an environmentally sustainable manner’;

HAVING REGARD TO the Recommendation of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 May 2002 concerning the implementation of integrated coastal zone management in Europe (5);

HAVING REGARD TO the White Paper European transport policy for 2010: time to decide of 12 September 2001 (6);

HAVING REGARD TO the draft opinion adopted on 28 June 2005 by the Commission for Sustainable Development (CdR 84/2005 rev. 1) (rapporteur: Mr Döring, Minister for Justice, Employment and European Affairs of Schleswig-Holstein, DE-PES);

Whereas:

| 1. | the sea is fundamental to the physical and economic survival of the human race and the continent of Europe has been particularly influenced by the sea, as the European Union including the islands lying offshore has around 325 000 km of coastline and, if its outermost regions are taken into account, the EU has the largest maritime territory in the world, one-third of the EU's 450 million people live on or near the coast, and over 100 regions border directly on the sea; |
| --- | --- |

1.

the sea is fundamental to the physical and economic survival of the human race and the continent of Europe has been particularly influenced by the sea, as the European Union including the islands lying offshore has around 325 000 km of coastline and, if its outermost regions are taken into account, the EU has the largest maritime territory in the world, one-third of the EU's 450 million people live on or near the coast, and over 100 regions border directly on the sea;

| 2. | the sea is of crucial importance to the lives of more than 14 million people in the European Union who live on islands and is the most significant factor in the socio-economic development of all island regions; |
| --- | --- |

2.

the sea is of crucial importance to the lives of more than 14 million people in the European Union who live on islands and is the most significant factor in the socio-economic development of all island regions;

| 3. | the seas, which cover around 1,4 billion km2, are the world's largest habitat; |
| --- | --- |

3.

the seas, which cover around 1,4 billion km2, are the world's largest habitat;

| 4. | the sea and the climate are closely interlinked, with 70 % of the oxygen we breathe being produced by marine flora; |
| --- | --- |

4.

the sea and the climate are closely interlinked, with 70 % of the oxygen we breathe being produced by marine flora;

| 5. | the various maritime sectors of the economy, such as transport, energy and food will need to face the difficult task of boosting economic growth in a sustainable manner in line with the objective of preserving resources; |
| --- | --- |

5.

the various maritime sectors of the economy, such as transport, energy and food will need to face the difficult task of boosting economic growth in a sustainable manner in line with the objective of preserving resources;

| 6. | the preamble of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea states, inter alia, that ‘issues relating to the law of the sea’ are to be settled ‘in a spirit of mutual understanding and cooperation’, that ‘the problems of ocean space are closely interrelated and need to be considered as a whole’, that ‘international communication’ should be facilitated, and that an ‘equitable and efficient utilisation of their resources’ and ‘the conservation of their living resources, and the ... protection and preservation of the marine environment’ should be promoted; |
| --- | --- |

6.

the preamble of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea states, inter alia, that ‘issues relating to the law of the sea’ are to be settled ‘in a spirit of mutual understanding and cooperation’, that ‘the problems of ocean space are closely interrelated and need to be considered as a whole’, that ‘international communication’ should be facilitated, and that an ‘equitable and efficient utilisation of their resources’ and ‘the conservation of their living resources, and the ... protection and preservation of the marine environment’ should be promoted;

| 7. | regional and local authorities in coastal areas have a particular wealth of experience that ought to be used in developing future maritime policy; |
| --- | --- |

7.

regional and local authorities in coastal areas have a particular wealth of experience that ought to be used in developing future maritime policy;

adopted the following opinion at its 61st plenary session, held on 12 and 13 October 2005 (meeting of 12 October):

1.   Views of the Committee of the Regions

The Committee of the Regions

Introduction

| 1.1 | notes that, for the first time, the sea as a whole is the subject of political focus in the European Union, and that the individual EU measures, some of which have been in operation for many years, can thus be brought together constructively, under a common approach that takes their synergies into account, to form a modern European maritime policy so that maximum benefit can be gained from them; |
| --- | --- |

1.1

notes that, for the first time, the sea as a whole is the subject of political focus in the European Union, and that the individual EU measures, some of which have been in operation for many years, can thus be brought together constructively, under a common approach that takes their synergies into account, to form a modern European maritime policy so that maximum benefit can be gained from them;

| 1.2 | expects the European Commission to go beyond a mere stocktaking exercise and to introduce, during this term of office, initial measures for a European maritime policy and put forward relevant legislative proposals; |
| --- | --- |

1.2

expects the European Commission to go beyond a mere stocktaking exercise and to introduce, during this term of office, initial measures for a European maritime policy and put forward relevant legislative proposals;

| 1.3 | welcomes the European Commission's decision to draw up a Green Paper on maritime affairs with the aim of taking stock and establishing a basis for a sustainable European maritime economy as a key initiative for 2010; |
| --- | --- |

1.3

welcomes the European Commission's decision to draw up a Green Paper on maritime affairs with the aim of taking stock and establishing a basis for a sustainable European maritime economy as a key initiative for 2010;

| 1.4 | supports the initiatives of individual regions and regional networks aimed at providing thorough-going support for this process; |
| --- | --- |

1.4

supports the initiatives of individual regions and regional networks aimed at providing thorough-going support for this process;

| 1.5 | also welcomes the Communication of 2 March 2005 entitled Towards a Future EU Maritime Policy: A European Vision for Oceans and Seas and the conclusions and aims concerning the EU maritime sector contained in that communication; |
| --- | --- |

1.5

also welcomes the Communication of 2 March 2005 entitled Towards a Future EU Maritime Policy: A European Vision for Oceans and Seas and the conclusions and aims concerning the EU maritime sector contained in that communication;

| 1.6 | stresses the central importance of the European Commission's decision to carry out during the drafting of the Green Paper a wide-ranging consultation in which European regional and local authorities will have a pivotal role to play; |
| --- | --- |

1.6

stresses the central importance of the European Commission's decision to carry out during the drafting of the Green Paper a wide-ranging consultation in which European regional and local authorities will have a pivotal role to play;

Integrated approach as the overarching principle

| 1.7 | considers that the aim must be to recognise and preserve the great potential of Europe's seas and to design an active maritime policy in such a way that future generations can also share in the economic, biological and cultural wealth of the sea; |
| --- | --- |

1.7

considers that the aim must be to recognise and preserve the great potential of Europe's seas and to design an active maritime policy in such a way that future generations can also share in the economic, biological and cultural wealth of the sea;

| 1.8 | stresses that a sustainable and effective European maritime policy must have as its overarching principle an integrated approach aimed at strategically merging various individual policies; |
| --- | --- |

1.8

stresses that a sustainable and effective European maritime policy must have as its overarching principle an integrated approach aimed at strategically merging various individual policies;

| 1.9 | points out that there are already a number of examples of integrated maritime policy outside the European Union; |
| --- | --- |

1.9

points out that there are already a number of examples of integrated maritime policy outside the European Union;

| 1.10 | hopes that an integrated approach to European maritime policy will also facilitate an effective relaunch of the Barcelona process, taking account of the contribution that regional and local authorities can make here. |
| --- | --- |

1.10

hopes that an integrated approach to European maritime policy will also facilitate an effective relaunch of the Barcelona process, taking account of the contribution that regional and local authorities can make here.

Individual policies

| 1.11 | points out that European maritime policy affects a large number of sectoral policy areas, some of which are regulated at European level but have not as yet been brought together in an integrated approach; |
| --- | --- |

1.11

points out that European maritime policy affects a large number of sectoral policy areas, some of which are regulated at European level but have not as yet been brought together in an integrated approach;

| 1.12 | lists the following important individual policies that an active maritime policy must cover: |
| --- | --- |

1.12

lists the following important individual policies that an active maritime policy must cover:

Trade, transport, shipbuilding and port industries

| 1.13 | stresses the vital interest of the European Union's regions in the competitiveness of shipping, shipbuilding, and port industries. The development of inland waterway and shipping routes is indispensable, given the geographical circumstances, Europe's heavily export-based economy, and the increase in traffic volumes. The transfer of land-based traffic to sea routes offers part of the solution to the rise in traffic levels. In addition, a European maritime policy needs to create circumstances that ensure fair opportunities for economic players in European shipping, shipbuilding and port industries. At the same time, not only must there be clear, binding safety regulations governing globalised sea traffic and safety at sea, but these regulations must also be enforced; |
| --- | --- |

1.13

stresses the vital interest of the European Union's regions in the competitiveness of shipping, shipbuilding, and port industries. The development of inland waterway and shipping routes is indispensable, given the geographical circumstances, Europe's heavily export-based economy, and the increase in traffic volumes. The transfer of land-based traffic to sea routes offers part of the solution to the rise in traffic levels. In addition, a European maritime policy needs to create circumstances that ensure fair opportunities for economic players in European shipping, shipbuilding and port industries. At the same time, not only must there be clear, binding safety regulations governing globalised sea traffic and safety at sea, but these regulations must also be enforced;

| 1.14 | notes that Europe has a strategic advantage to gain by retaining a competitive commercial fleet and a thriving shipbuilding industry; this would require developing an active industrial policy based on innovation, research and scientific knowledge; |
| --- | --- |

1.14

notes that Europe has a strategic advantage to gain by retaining a competitive commercial fleet and a thriving shipbuilding industry; this would require developing an active industrial policy based on innovation, research and scientific knowledge;

| 1.15 | stresses that the infrastructure for repairing and maintaining ships must be developed in European ports and the safety standards raised, in order to help strengthen this sector; |
| --- | --- |

1.15

stresses that the infrastructure for repairing and maintaining ships must be developed in European ports and the safety standards raised, in order to help strengthen this sector;

| 1.16 | suggests that thought be given to ways of disposing of shipping waste in an environmentally sensitive manner such as the introduction of a specific port tax; |
| --- | --- |

1.16

suggests that thought be given to ways of disposing of shipping waste in an environmentally sensitive manner such as the introduction of a specific port tax;

Fisheries and mariculture

| 1.17 | notes that despite the EU's Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), traditional fishing — whilst it is a resource for some operating businesses — has been brought to the brink by overfishing, although the EU has the largest market in the world for processed fish products. Unless the CFP is implemented with determination and, where necessary, is supported by further specific measures for individual European seas, the collapse of large parts of European fish stocks and, as a result, the economic ruin of many fisheries businesses appears inevitable; |
| --- | --- |

1.17

notes that despite the EU's Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), traditional fishing — whilst it is a resource for some operating businesses — has been brought to the brink by overfishing, although the EU has the largest market in the world for processed fish products. Unless the CFP is implemented with determination and, where necessary, is supported by further specific measures for individual European seas, the collapse of large parts of European fish stocks and, as a result, the economic ruin of many fisheries businesses appears inevitable;

| 1.18 | stresses that, alongside traditional fishing, the development of mariculture for highly-priced fish, crustaceans and algae at sea and on land, as well as the harvesting and cultivation of natural products in the seas through the use of ‘blue’ biotechnology could, if carried out sustainably, make a significant contribution to economic growth; |
| --- | --- |

1.18

stresses that, alongside traditional fishing, the development of mariculture for highly-priced fish, crustaceans and algae at sea and on land, as well as the harvesting and cultivation of natural products in the seas through the use of ‘blue’ biotechnology could, if carried out sustainably, make a significant contribution to economic growth;

Energy, marine minerals, marine technology

| 1.19 | notes that, in the area of offshore energy, alongside oil and gas extraction, wind energy in particular is gaining in economic significance as a form of renewable energy. In the context of the European Union's increasing dependence on energy imports, the development of this sea-based energy should also be promoted; |
| --- | --- |

1.19

notes that, in the area of offshore energy, alongside oil and gas extraction, wind energy in particular is gaining in economic significance as a form of renewable energy. In the context of the European Union's increasing dependence on energy imports, the development of this sea-based energy should also be promoted;

| 1.20 | notes that marine minerals are very extensive and that their exploitation is in some cases just beginning and must take place in a way that does not destroy the long-term ecological balance; |
| --- | --- |

1.20

notes that marine minerals are very extensive and that their exploitation is in some cases just beginning and must take place in a way that does not destroy the long-term ecological balance;

| 1.21 | stresses the innovative potential of a many-faceted marine technology with a wide range of applications, such as the whole sea transport sector including ship maintenance, port industries and shipyards, equipment for offshore activities, hydrography, mariculture and the environment. Environmental technology, too, opens up significant economic opportunities. Marine technology, with its high innovative potential, is thus both an important economic factor and a powerful engine for research and development; |
| --- | --- |

1.21

stresses the innovative potential of a many-faceted marine technology with a wide range of applications, such as the whole sea transport sector including ship maintenance, port industries and shipyards, equipment for offshore activities, hydrography, mariculture and the environment. Environmental technology, too, opens up significant economic opportunities. Marine technology, with its high innovative potential, is thus both an important economic factor and a powerful engine for research and development;

Marine environment

| 1.22 | stresses that the sea's physical, chemical and biological makeup is influenced by outside factors such as increasing pollution, including the build-up of persistent pollutants and the inappropriate exploitation of some of the sea's biological and non-biological raw materials and climate change, which are threatening the future of the sea as a source of biodiversity and a vital economic resource for millions of people throughout the EU, and thus urgently require appropriate corrective measures. Examples of this are the EU Water Framework Directive and the efforts that have been made over many years to improve the state of the Baltic Sea, which has recently almost become a sea within the EU; |
| --- | --- |

1.22

stresses that the sea's physical, chemical and biological makeup is influenced by outside factors such as increasing pollution, including the build-up of persistent pollutants and the inappropriate exploitation of some of the sea's biological and non-biological raw materials and climate change, which are threatening the future of the sea as a source of biodiversity and a vital economic resource for millions of people throughout the EU, and thus urgently require appropriate corrective measures. Examples of this are the EU Water Framework Directive and the efforts that have been made over many years to improve the state of the Baltic Sea, which has recently almost become a sea within the EU;

Tourism

| 1.23 | notes that sporting and healthcare facilities, high-quality bathing water, clean beaches, unspoilt coastlines, restrictions on urban development, and culture and leisure facilities influence holidaymakers' choice of coastal resort for their holidays. The further development of the European maritime tourist industry, including marinas for sail and motor craft, remains a key precondition for this. The promotion of coastal areas as places in which to invest with their high employment rates must be given proper consideration in any European maritime policy; |
| --- | --- |

1.23

notes that sporting and healthcare facilities, high-quality bathing water, clean beaches, unspoilt coastlines, restrictions on urban development, and culture and leisure facilities influence holidaymakers' choice of coastal resort for their holidays. The further development of the European maritime tourist industry, including marinas for sail and motor craft, remains a key precondition for this. The promotion of coastal areas as places in which to invest with their high employment rates must be given proper consideration in any European maritime policy;

Coastal protection

| 1.24 | recalls that rising sea levels and coastal erosion call for direct structural measures to protect coastlines and that, at the same time, the potential consequences of climate change must be investigated and assessed in economic terms in order to ensure the further development of coastal protection; in this context, it would seem vital to foster exchange of best practice on integrated coastal zone management in order to establish procedures which meet the requirements of coastal areas, thus ensuring that both the quality of these areas and maritime regional identity are preserved. Similarly, it is vital to draw up measures to protect the natural resources of coastal areas, which are the most productive marine environments; |
| --- | --- |

1.24

recalls that rising sea levels and coastal erosion call for direct structural measures to protect coastlines and that, at the same time, the potential consequences of climate change must be investigated and assessed in economic terms in order to ensure the further development of coastal protection; in this context, it would seem vital to foster exchange of best practice on integrated coastal zone management in order to establish procedures which meet the requirements of coastal areas, thus ensuring that both the quality of these areas and maritime regional identity are preserved. Similarly, it is vital to draw up measures to protect the natural resources of coastal areas, which are the most productive marine environments;

Island dimension

| 1.25 | considers that European maritime policy must take account of the specific characteristics of islands and must be able to help them to overcome the natural handicaps they suffer and which give rise to additional structural costs that place them at a disadvantage when competing with continental Europe; |
| --- | --- |

1.25

considers that European maritime policy must take account of the specific characteristics of islands and must be able to help them to overcome the natural handicaps they suffer and which give rise to additional structural costs that place them at a disadvantage when competing with continental Europe;

| 1.26 | is of the view that, because island economies depend heavily on maritime transport, EU maritime policy should be a useful mechanism for helping island markets to operate in the single market on an equal footing with regions in continental Europe; |
| --- | --- |

1.26

is of the view that, because island economies depend heavily on maritime transport, EU maritime policy should be a useful mechanism for helping island markets to operate in the single market on an equal footing with regions in continental Europe;

Marine resources in the foreign policy dimension and in the neighbourhood policy

| 1.27 | believes that it is clearly in the interests of the EU, as a global player, to use marine resources in a way that is fair to all countries and also takes global sustainability into consideration; in this context, the applicable international conventions and in particular International Maritime Organisation (IMO) legislation must be considered; |
| --- | --- |

1.27

believes that it is clearly in the interests of the EU, as a global player, to use marine resources in a way that is fair to all countries and also takes global sustainability into consideration; in this context, the applicable international conventions and in particular International Maritime Organisation (IMO) legislation must be considered;

Instruments of an integrated maritime policy

Research and education

| 1.28 | notes that marine research must become not only an integral part of European research policy, but also one of its priorities; |
| --- | --- |

1.28

notes that marine research must become not only an integral part of European research policy, but also one of its priorities;

| 1.29 | supports the Galway Declaration of European maritime research institutes of 13 May 2004 in favour of support for marine science and technology in the seventh research framework programme; and stresses that, alongside sectoral technical areas such as materials and technology research, health and food research, climate and marine biological research and non-technical areas such as trade and tourism, there is an urgent need to support overarching international research institutions that can collect comprehensive data on horizontal issues; |
| --- | --- |

1.29

supports the Galway Declaration of European maritime research institutes of 13 May 2004 in favour of support for marine science and technology in the seventh research framework programme; and stresses that, alongside sectoral technical areas such as materials and technology research, health and food research, climate and marine biological research and non-technical areas such as trade and tourism, there is an urgent need to support overarching international research institutions that can collect comprehensive data on horizontal issues;

| 1.30 | approves the promotion of a training system for the maritime professions in the Member States and regions, based on the needs of all of Europe's labour markets. |
| --- | --- |

1.30

approves the promotion of a training system for the maritime professions in the Member States and regions, based on the needs of all of Europe's labour markets.

Spatial planning and monitoring

| 1.31 | considers that spatial planning instruments are an important part of an integrated maritime policy. Appropriate monitoring systems and their evaluation could produce important data for the development over time of the various marine parameters and their use. The management of the territorial waters and of the exclusive economic zone of the EU could be optimised within an integrated approach. This is in Europe's common interest, not least because of the high infrastructure costs involved; |
| --- | --- |

1.31

considers that spatial planning instruments are an important part of an integrated maritime policy. Appropriate monitoring systems and their evaluation could produce important data for the development over time of the various marine parameters and their use. The management of the territorial waters and of the exclusive economic zone of the EU could be optimised within an integrated approach. This is in Europe's common interest, not least because of the high infrastructure costs involved;

| 1.32 | supports in this context the Recommendation of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 May 2002 concerning the implementation of Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) in Europe. The ICZM covers: a holistic approach to land, coast and open sea; balancing the various interests within and between the economy, the environment, social policy and security; and the involvement of politicians, administrations and social groups in order to recognise and resolve conflicts at an early stage; |
| --- | --- |

1.32

supports in this context the Recommendation of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 May 2002 concerning the implementation of Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) in Europe. The ICZM covers: a holistic approach to land, coast and open sea; balancing the various interests within and between the economy, the environment, social policy and security; and the involvement of politicians, administrations and social groups in order to recognise and resolve conflicts at an early stage;

Public awareness

| 1.33 | regrets that it took spectacular shipping disasters involving ships that did not meet EU standards, such as the Erika and the Prestige, for the public to become aware throughout Europe of the sea's existence as a resource. It will only be possible to successfully implement a European maritime policy if, through the use of appropriate instruments, the people affected on the ground are involved in its formulation and implementation at local and regional level. The many examples of best practice in Europe's regions should be taken into consideration here; |
| --- | --- |

1.33

regrets that it took spectacular shipping disasters involving ships that did not meet EU standards, such as the Erika and the Prestige, for the public to become aware throughout Europe of the sea's existence as a resource. It will only be possible to successfully implement a European maritime policy if, through the use of appropriate instruments, the people affected on the ground are involved in its formulation and implementation at local and regional level. The many examples of best practice in Europe's regions should be taken into consideration here;

Inland dimension

| 1.34 | considers that the inland dimension plays an important role in maritime policy, as inland activities have significant effects on coastal areas and the seas. |
| --- | --- |

1.34

considers that the inland dimension plays an important role in maritime policy, as inland activities have significant effects on coastal areas and the seas.

2.   The Committee of the Regions' recommendations

The Committee of the Regions

| 2.1 | supports the active inclusion of a European maritime policy in the overarching aims of the Lisbon strategy; |
| --- | --- |

2.1

supports the active inclusion of a European maritime policy in the overarching aims of the Lisbon strategy;

| 2.2 | requests the Commission to recognise the positive and multifaceted contribution of local and regional authorities to managing maritime resources and to ensure that this role is built into the future Maritime Policy; |
| --- | --- |

2.2

requests the Commission to recognise the positive and multifaceted contribution of local and regional authorities to managing maritime resources and to ensure that this role is built into the future Maritime Policy;

| 2.3 | recommends that the Commission should take account of three key themes: a) building the Capacity and facility construction of Coastal Areas for businesses and communities — including support for innovation, skills and enterprise, especially for new maritime technology development including adequate resourcing for such facilities and development of required human resources; b) using the Sea and our Coasts to Support Economic Development including support for coastal regeneration, and countryside based activities where there are social and economic outputs, c) assisting Coastal Settlements and Hinterlands by supporting improved access with wider rural areas, as well as to regional towns and cities; |
| --- | --- |

2.3

recommends that the Commission should take account of three key themes: a) building the Capacity and facility construction of Coastal Areas for businesses and communities — including support for innovation, skills and enterprise, especially for new maritime technology development including adequate resourcing for such facilities and development of required human resources; b) using the Sea and our Coasts to Support Economic Development including support for coastal regeneration, and countryside based activities where there are social and economic outputs, c) assisting Coastal Settlements and Hinterlands by supporting improved access with wider rural areas, as well as to regional towns and cities;

| 2.4 | recommends that an overview of existing laws and regulations with maritime aspects be drawn up, and that Regional Policy instruments, the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development Regulation, the lifelong learning fund regulations, and the 7th Community Framework Programme for Research & Development be checked as to whether they give adequate consideration to those maritime aspects; |
| --- | --- |

2.4

recommends that an overview of existing laws and regulations with maritime aspects be drawn up, and that Regional Policy instruments, the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development Regulation, the lifelong learning fund regulations, and the 7th Community Framework Programme for Research & Development be checked as to whether they give adequate consideration to those maritime aspects;

| 2.5 | wishes to see the maritime dimension of the Union taken into account in future competitiveness and cooperation objectives, especially as regards the transnational and cross-border aspects of the combating of pollution, the enhancement of safety at sea, and the management of airport systems and waterways in the 2007-2013 regional policy programming period and recommends that existing EU financial instruments be checked and coordinated with respect to maritime affairs; |
| --- | --- |

2.5

wishes to see the maritime dimension of the Union taken into account in future competitiveness and cooperation objectives, especially as regards the transnational and cross-border aspects of the combating of pollution, the enhancement of safety at sea, and the management of airport systems and waterways in the 2007-2013 regional policy programming period and recommends that existing EU financial instruments be checked and coordinated with respect to maritime affairs;

| 2.6 | calls on the Commission to do everything possible to collect data on the economic and environmental value of individual marine resources and to evaluate the current and planned use of marine resources and, if appropriate, deduce what changes may be necessary; |
| --- | --- |

2.6

calls on the Commission to do everything possible to collect data on the economic and environmental value of individual marine resources and to evaluate the current and planned use of marine resources and, if appropriate, deduce what changes may be necessary;

| 2.7 | calls on the Commission to indicate the various sectors of the maritime economy's current and future potential for wealth and job creation and to put forward proposals as to how that potential might be realised; |
| --- | --- |

2.7

calls on the Commission to indicate the various sectors of the maritime economy's current and future potential for wealth and job creation and to put forward proposals as to how that potential might be realised;

| 2.8 | encourages the Commission to continue to work together with Member States to strengthen, improve and develop shipping routes and to ensure that they are given proper consideration as part of the trans-European networks; |
| --- | --- |

2.8

encourages the Commission to continue to work together with Member States to strengthen, improve and develop shipping routes and to ensure that they are given proper consideration as part of the trans-European networks;

| 2.9 | requests that, in order to improve transport links with the islands and their access to continental markets, development of secondary networks be stepped up and islands should be fully connected to the ‘motorways of the sea’; |
| --- | --- |

2.9

requests that, in order to improve transport links with the islands and their access to continental markets, development of secondary networks be stepped up and islands should be fully connected to the ‘motorways of the sea’;

| 2.10 | calls for sound spatial planning, for example by implementing ICZM and distribution or reservation of areas that might be required for different uses; |
| --- | --- |

2.10

calls for sound spatial planning, for example by implementing ICZM and distribution or reservation of areas that might be required for different uses;

| 2.11 | supports the EU shipbuilding industry's LeaderSHIP 2015 initiative, and calls on the Commission to support the competitiveness of high-quality European shipbuilding; |
| --- | --- |

2.11

supports the EU shipbuilding industry's LeaderSHIP 2015 initiative, and calls on the Commission to support the competitiveness of high-quality European shipbuilding;

| 2.12 | calls on the Commission to make the avoidance of shipping accidents on the high seas, in coastal areas and in ports one of the priorities of the European Union and to increase security levels already established in international conventions that are binding under public international law, such as the IMO's SOLAS and MARPOL conventions, by means of EU initiatives, speed up the ratification of these conventions and improve their implementation and monitoring; in this context thought should be given to the extent to which the Structural Funds could be used for risk management; |
| --- | --- |

2.12

calls on the Commission to make the avoidance of shipping accidents on the high seas, in coastal areas and in ports one of the priorities of the European Union and to increase security levels already established in international conventions that are binding under public international law, such as the IMO's SOLAS and MARPOL conventions, by means of EU initiatives, speed up the ratification of these conventions and improve their implementation and monitoring; in this context thought should be given to the extent to which the Structural Funds could be used for risk management;

| 2.13 | calls for increased efforts to expand the capacity and/or develop infrastructure for land access to port facilities, construction of logistical distribution networks and new infrastructure and, to diversify existing infrastructure in ports, paying particular attention to the port infrastructure of islands, while complying with measures to protect the natural resources of coastal areas; |
| --- | --- |

2.13

calls for increased efforts to expand the capacity and/or develop infrastructure for land access to port facilities, construction of logistical distribution networks and new infrastructure and, to diversify existing infrastructure in ports, paying particular attention to the port infrastructure of islands, while complying with measures to protect the natural resources of coastal areas;

| 2.14 | calls for greater consideration to be paid to social facilities in ports, for example accommodation for crews; |
| --- | --- |

2.14

calls for greater consideration to be paid to social facilities in ports, for example accommodation for crews;

| 2.15 | urges that safety strategies and measures in port installations and their immediate surroundings be adapted to the new threat of terrorism without further delay; |
| --- | --- |

2.15

urges that safety strategies and measures in port installations and their immediate surroundings be adapted to the new threat of terrorism without further delay;

| 2.16 | calls on the Commission to continue its reform of fisheries policy, in order to safeguard fish stocks in European waters and the livelihoods of fishermen in the long term; |
| --- | --- |

2.16

calls on the Commission to continue its reform of fisheries policy, in order to safeguard fish stocks in European waters and the livelihoods of fishermen in the long term;

| 2.17 | asks the Commission and the Council that the relaunch of Euromed policy gives a central role to the common fisheries policy, inter alia in view of the creation by 2010 of the Mediterranean free trade area; |
| --- | --- |

2.17

asks the Commission and the Council that the relaunch of Euromed policy gives a central role to the common fisheries policy, inter alia in view of the creation by 2010 of the Mediterranean free trade area;

| 2.18 | appeals to the Commission to facilitate the further development of wind farms in the EU. The potential of other renewable energy sources, such as tidal flows, should be looked into more carefully and, if appropriate, included in support measures; |
| --- | --- |

2.18

appeals to the Commission to facilitate the further development of wind farms in the EU. The potential of other renewable energy sources, such as tidal flows, should be looked into more carefully and, if appropriate, included in support measures;

| 2.19 | requests the Commission to ensure environmentally-friendly underwater oil and gas extraction in the EU's waters; |
| --- | --- |

2.19

requests the Commission to ensure environmentally-friendly underwater oil and gas extraction in the EU's waters;

| 2.20 | calls on the Commission to develop scenarios for coastal protection measures that may be necessary, based on the various forecasts for the rise in sea levels; |
| --- | --- |

2.20

calls on the Commission to develop scenarios for coastal protection measures that may be necessary, based on the various forecasts for the rise in sea levels;

| 2.21 | calls for the development for the maritime sector of an instrument similar to the INSPIRE spatial information infrastructure, thereby enabling the various user interests to be weighed against each other on the basis of sound data; |
| --- | --- |

2.21

calls for the development for the maritime sector of an instrument similar to the INSPIRE spatial information infrastructure, thereby enabling the various user interests to be weighed against each other on the basis of sound data;

| 2.22 | recommends more targeted support for shipbuilding and marine technology, such as the introduction of double-hulled tankers or the forthcoming dismantling over the next few years of around 200 offshore oil and gas platforms; |
| --- | --- |

2.22

recommends more targeted support for shipbuilding and marine technology, such as the introduction of double-hulled tankers or the forthcoming dismantling over the next few years of around 200 offshore oil and gas platforms;

| 2.23 | calls on the Commission to promote the creation of national strategic plans and support trans-regional and trans-national ICZM approaches; |
| --- | --- |

2.23

calls on the Commission to promote the creation of national strategic plans and support trans-regional and trans-national ICZM approaches;

| 2.24 | calls on the Commission to boost funding for marine research and to focus it on promoting new technologies, such as polar technology, and to harmonise conditions across the EU, for example for mariculture, and to involve business therein at an early stage; |
| --- | --- |

2.24

calls on the Commission to boost funding for marine research and to focus it on promoting new technologies, such as polar technology, and to harmonise conditions across the EU, for example for mariculture, and to involve business therein at an early stage;

| 2.25 | requests the Commission, for the purpose of improving public awareness, to develop a systematic strategy for a modern maritime policy in order to have it firmly embedded at grassroots level and to ensure that it actually gets implemented; |
| --- | --- |

2.25

requests the Commission, for the purpose of improving public awareness, to develop a systematic strategy for a modern maritime policy in order to have it firmly embedded at grassroots level and to ensure that it actually gets implemented;

| 2.26 | requests the Commission to take into consideration the inland dimension and the interactions between inland areas, coastal areas and the sea, so that all regions — not only those immediately next to the sea — are involved in maritime policy; |
| --- | --- |

2.26

requests the Commission to take into consideration the inland dimension and the interactions between inland areas, coastal areas and the sea, so that all regions — not only those immediately next to the sea — are involved in maritime policy;

| 2.27 | requests the Commission to take into consideration broader regional approaches, particularly those that already exist in the four large European maritime areas of the North East Atlantic, the Baltic, the Mediterranean and the Black Sea; |
| --- | --- |

2.27

requests the Commission to take into consideration broader regional approaches, particularly those that already exist in the four large European maritime areas of the North East Atlantic, the Baltic, the Mediterranean and the Black Sea;

| 2.28 | recommends that the Commission should specifically take account of cultural interests and local knowledge in maritime communities and incorporate this into planning, management and related policy development. Further, it is imperative to encourage continued cultural contact between coastal communities and the sea especially where the sea contribute to the sustainability of communities. This will add value to the tourism product; |
| --- | --- |

2.28

recommends that the Commission should specifically take account of cultural interests and local knowledge in maritime communities and incorporate this into planning, management and related policy development. Further, it is imperative to encourage continued cultural contact between coastal communities and the sea especially where the sea contribute to the sustainability of communities. This will add value to the tourism product;

| 2.29 | calls on the Commission to ensure that the regional and local dimension is included in the formulation and implementation of European maritime policy and that the wide-ranging expertise existing at regional level is taken into consideration when drafting the Green Paper. In particular, examples of best practice and also model maritime regions could be very significant for the introduction of integrated policies. Further the highly successful LEADER model should be considered to ensure a local dimension in delivery; |
| --- | --- |

2.29

calls on the Commission to ensure that the regional and local dimension is included in the formulation and implementation of European maritime policy and that the wide-ranging expertise existing at regional level is taken into consideration when drafting the Green Paper. In particular, examples of best practice and also model maritime regions could be very significant for the introduction of integrated policies. Further the highly successful LEADER model should be considered to ensure a local dimension in delivery;

| 2.30 | recommends that over the course of the broad consultation on the Green Paper and until its publication, various regional conferences be held in coastal regions in order, on the one hand, to bring regional and local expertise to bear, and, on the other, to help raise public awareness of maritime issues. Conferences should be balanced between those regions with large industrial ports and those with smaller artisanal ports; |
| --- | --- |

2.30

recommends that over the course of the broad consultation on the Green Paper and until its publication, various regional conferences be held in coastal regions in order, on the one hand, to bring regional and local expertise to bear, and, on the other, to help raise public awareness of maritime issues. Conferences should be balanced between those regions with large industrial ports and those with smaller artisanal ports;

| 2.31 | offers to play a significant partnering role in the consultations that are to accompany the drafting of the Green Paper on maritime policy; and recommends a long-term publicity campaign involving local and regional authorities. |
| --- | --- |

2.31

offers to play a significant partnering role in the consultations that are to accompany the drafting of the Green Paper on maritime policy; and recommends a long-term publicity campaign involving local and regional authorities.

Brussels, 12 October 2005.

The President

of the Committee of the Regions

Peter STRAUB

---

(1)  CdR 7/2005 rev. 1.

1

(2)  OJ C 310 of 16.12.2004, p. 1.

2

(3)  CdR 24/2003 fin.

3

(4)  COM(2005) 12 final.

4

(5)  OJ L 148 of 6.6.2002, p. 24.

5

(6)  White Paper: European transport policy for 2010: time to decide, COM(2001) 370 final.

6

---

| 4.4.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 81/26 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

4.4.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 81/26

---

Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the Communication from the Commission to the Council, the European Parliament, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions: Winning the Battle Against Global Climate Change

(2006/C 81/07)

THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS,

Having regard to the Communication from the Commission to the Council, the European Parliament, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions: Winning the Battle Against Global Climate Change (COM(2005) 35 final);

Having regard to the decision of the European Commission of 9 February 2005 to consult it on this subject, under the first paragraph of Article 265 of the Treaty establishing the European Community;

Having regard to the decision of its Bureau, of 22 February 2005, to ask the Commission for Sustainable Development to draw up an opinion on this subject;

Having regard to the conclusions of the Council of 22 and 23 March 2005, and of the Environment Council of 7 March 2005;

Having regard to the European Parliament resolution of 12 May 2005 on the Seminar of Governmental Experts on Climate Change;

Having regard to its opinion of 18 November 1999 on the Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament, Preparing for Implementation of the Kyoto Protocol, COM(1999) 230 final — CdR 295/1999 fin (1);

Having regard to its opinion of 21 September 2000 on the Green Paper on Greenhouse-gas emissions trading within the European Union and the Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament on EU policies and measures to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions: Towards a European Climate Change Programme (ECCP), COM(2000) 87 final and COM(2000) 88 final — (CdR 189/2000 fin (2));

Having regard to its draft opinion (CdR 65/2005 rev. 1) adopted on 28 June 2005 by the Commission for Sustainable Development (rapporteur: José Macário Correia, Leader of Tavira Municipal Council (PT/EPP));

Whereas:

| 1. | there is a need to set out medium- and long-term strategies in order to win the battle against climate change in the EU and in cooperation with the international community; |
| --- | --- |

1.

there is a need to set out medium- and long-term strategies in order to win the battle against climate change in the EU and in cooperation with the international community;

| 2. | the EU Council of Ministers stated in 1996 that it ‘believes that global average temperatures should not exceed two degrees above pre-industrial levels’; |
| --- | --- |

2.

the EU Council of Ministers stated in 1996 that it ‘believes that global average temperatures should not exceed two degrees above pre-industrial levels’;

| 3. | the benefits of limiting the increase in the global average temperature to 2°C outweigh the costs of emission-reducing policies; |
| --- | --- |

3.

the benefits of limiting the increase in the global average temperature to 2°C outweigh the costs of emission-reducing policies;

| 4. | it is imperative to use the most efficient and least-cost mix of adjustment and mitigation actions over time to meet our environmental objectives while maintaining our economic competitiveness; |
| --- | --- |

4.

it is imperative to use the most efficient and least-cost mix of adjustment and mitigation actions over time to meet our environmental objectives while maintaining our economic competitiveness;

| 5. | climate change is a global problem that also overlaps with the remit of regional and local authorities; the Kyoto Protocol, which was signed by the EU and its Member States, is an international agreement that obliges Member States, and hence also regional and local authorities, to take action; |
| --- | --- |

5.

climate change is a global problem that also overlaps with the remit of regional and local authorities; the Kyoto Protocol, which was signed by the EU and its Member States, is an international agreement that obliges Member States, and hence also regional and local authorities, to take action;

adopted the following opinion unanimously, at its 61st plenary session, held on 12 and 13 October 2005 (meeting of 12 October):

1.   Views of the Committee of the Regions

The Committee of the Regions

| 1.1 | welcomes the Communication, which presents an accurate assessment of the current situation and analyses both the dangers posed by climate change and the instruments designed to combat this phenomenon effectively; |
| --- | --- |

1.1

welcomes the Communication, which presents an accurate assessment of the current situation and analyses both the dangers posed by climate change and the instruments designed to combat this phenomenon effectively;

| 1.2 | welcomes the entry into force of the Kyoto Protocol, the first phase in a global strategy to combat climate change; |
| --- | --- |

1.2

welcomes the entry into force of the Kyoto Protocol, the first phase in a global strategy to combat climate change;

| 1.3 | reiterates its support for an ambitious EU policy in this field; |
| --- | --- |

1.3

reiterates its support for an ambitious EU policy in this field;

| 1.4 | highlights the need for a considerable increase in the number of countries taking part in the battle against climate change — all the main sectors responsible for greenhouse-gas emissions should be involved, particularly the energy production, air and maritime transport sectors; |
| --- | --- |

1.4

highlights the need for a considerable increase in the number of countries taking part in the battle against climate change — all the main sectors responsible for greenhouse-gas emissions should be involved, particularly the energy production, air and maritime transport sectors;

| 1.5 | wishes to express its concern at the consequences of the lack of action at world level; |
| --- | --- |

1.5

wishes to express its concern at the consequences of the lack of action at world level;

| 1.6 | deplores the fact that some Member States are a long way from achieving the targets set for them under the ‘-8 %’ Community objective as defined in the Kyoto Protocol, but considers it important to assist such countries in progressing towards this objective; |
| --- | --- |

1.6

deplores the fact that some Member States are a long way from achieving the targets set for them under the ‘-8 %’ Community objective as defined in the Kyoto Protocol, but considers it important to assist such countries in progressing towards this objective;

| 1.7 | reinforces the Commission's recommendation that awareness-raising campaigns should be promoted, to help to increase public interest and concern about this issue, encouraging more sustainable lifestyles. It also highlights the importance of implementing and developing school projects in this field, because schools are considered to reflect society at large; |
| --- | --- |

1.7

reinforces the Commission's recommendation that awareness-raising campaigns should be promoted, to help to increase public interest and concern about this issue, encouraging more sustainable lifestyles. It also highlights the importance of implementing and developing school projects in this field, because schools are considered to reflect society at large;

| 1.8 | considers that spatial planning policy must take account of energy-efficiency objectives — by promoting a mix of compatible and complementary activities — in order to cut distances travelled and consequently fuel consumption; |
| --- | --- |

1.8

considers that spatial planning policy must take account of energy-efficiency objectives — by promoting a mix of compatible and complementary activities — in order to cut distances travelled and consequently fuel consumption;

| 1.9 | highlights the importance of preserving and creating green spaces, which must be incorporated into the strategic planning of urban areas; increasing the size of wooded areas is extremely important to making the process of carbon sequestration from the atmosphere more efficient; |
| --- | --- |

1.9

highlights the importance of preserving and creating green spaces, which must be incorporated into the strategic planning of urban areas; increasing the size of wooded areas is extremely important to making the process of carbon sequestration from the atmosphere more efficient;

| 1.10 | supports the creation of more sustainable mobility patterns, in which establishing pedestrianised zones and banning or reducing motor-vehicle traffic in city centres play a crucial role; it also considers that an attractive public transport system should be set up, to a large extent complementing individual transport and, in many cases, replacing it; |
| --- | --- |

1.10

supports the creation of more sustainable mobility patterns, in which establishing pedestrianised zones and banning or reducing motor-vehicle traffic in city centres play a crucial role; it also considers that an attractive public transport system should be set up, to a large extent complementing individual transport and, in many cases, replacing it;

| 1.11 | highlights the importance of all vehicles using cleaner fuels, including companies' and public administrations' fleets; invites public administrations to take the lead in achieving cleaner fleets; |
| --- | --- |

1.11

highlights the importance of all vehicles using cleaner fuels, including companies' and public administrations' fleets; invites public administrations to take the lead in achieving cleaner fleets;

| 1.12 | considers that providing facilities for selective waste collection, and public support for this practice, will both help to achieve these objectives; |
| --- | --- |

1.12

considers that providing facilities for selective waste collection, and public support for this practice, will both help to achieve these objectives;

| 1.13 | considers that sound energy performance must be a factor in the construction of new buildings and the renovation of existing ones; |
| --- | --- |

1.13

considers that sound energy performance must be a factor in the construction of new buildings and the renovation of existing ones;

| 1.14 | highlights the responsibilities of all local and regional authorities, together with national governments, to combat climate change through the measures described above. |
| --- | --- |

1.14

highlights the responsibilities of all local and regional authorities, together with national governments, to combat climate change through the measures described above.

2.   Recommendations of the Committee of the Regions

The Committee of the Regions

| 2.1 | points to the need for the Commission to promote the battle against climate change at all levels, including the local and regional levels; |
| --- | --- |

2.1

points to the need for the Commission to promote the battle against climate change at all levels, including the local and regional levels;

| 2.2 | calls for measures to prevent and combat forest fires to be stepped up, as a decisive means of controlling greenhouse-gas emissions; |
| --- | --- |

2.2

calls for measures to prevent and combat forest fires to be stepped up, as a decisive means of controlling greenhouse-gas emissions;

| 2.3 | calls for strengthened measures for the study and constant monitoring of European glaciers insofar as they are fragile ecosystems and highly sensitive to climatic change; |
| --- | --- |

2.3

calls for strengthened measures for the study and constant monitoring of European glaciers insofar as they are fragile ecosystems and highly sensitive to climatic change;

| 2.4 | urges that businesses be given substantial financial incentives to encourage them to use ‘clean technologies’ or to convert existing technologies; |
| --- | --- |

2.4

urges that businesses be given substantial financial incentives to encourage them to use ‘clean technologies’ or to convert existing technologies;

| 2.5 | advocates that an efficient monitoring policy be put in place as part of the efforts to control industrial activity, to ensure legitimacy for the battle against climate change; |
| --- | --- |

2.5

advocates that an efficient monitoring policy be put in place as part of the efforts to control industrial activity, to ensure legitimacy for the battle against climate change;

| 2.6 | supports incorporating alternative energies, such as biomass, into buildings' heating systems, and that this should apply to all sectors, including public administrations; points out, in this context, that existing sources of energy should be used more efficiently, for instance through the extended use of co-generation. This would lead to lower emission rates per unit of energy produced; |
| --- | --- |

2.6

supports incorporating alternative energies, such as biomass, into buildings' heating systems, and that this should apply to all sectors, including public administrations; points out, in this context, that existing sources of energy should be used more efficiently, for instance through the extended use of co-generation. This would lead to lower emission rates per unit of energy produced;

| 2.7 | calls for incentives for the preferential consumption of highly energy-efficient products or of those produced using renewable energies; |
| --- | --- |

2.7

calls for incentives for the preferential consumption of highly energy-efficient products or of those produced using renewable energies;

| 2.8 | recommends that subsidies for activities contributing to climate change be abolished; |
| --- | --- |

2.8

recommends that subsidies for activities contributing to climate change be abolished;

| 2.9 | supports and reiterates the Council proposal to set targets for the post-2012 period; like the Council, it considers that for developed countries, it would be appropriate to set reduction targets of between 15 % and 30 % by 2020 in relation to the reference values established by the Kyoto Protocol; beyond this date, it recommends that values should be set in line with the spirit of the conclusions adopted by the Environment Council (60 % to 80 % by 2050); |
| --- | --- |

2.9

supports and reiterates the Council proposal to set targets for the post-2012 period; like the Council, it considers that for developed countries, it would be appropriate to set reduction targets of between 15 % and 30 % by 2020 in relation to the reference values established by the Kyoto Protocol; beyond this date, it recommends that values should be set in line with the spirit of the conclusions adopted by the Environment Council (60 % to 80 % by 2050);

| 2.10 | proposes that the thematic strategy for the urban environment create incentives for combating climate change; |
| --- | --- |

2.10

proposes that the thematic strategy for the urban environment create incentives for combating climate change;

| 2.11 | recommends that the cost/benefit analysis of limiting temperature increases to 2oC should be studied/researched in greater detail; the concentration of greenhouse gases required to achieve the objective of 2°C and the costs associated with such a reduction must be established more precisely; |
| --- | --- |

2.11

recommends that the cost/benefit analysis of limiting temperature increases to 2oC should be studied/researched in greater detail; the concentration of greenhouse gases required to achieve the objective of 2°C and the costs associated with such a reduction must be established more precisely;

| 2.12 | suggests that towns continue to sign up to the LA21 process, and focus more on implementing this type of strategy. |
| --- | --- |

2.12

suggests that towns continue to sign up to the LA21 process, and focus more on implementing this type of strategy.

Brussels, 12 October 2005.

The President

of the Committee of the Regions

Peter STRAUB

---

(1)  OJ C 107, 3.5.2002, p. 76.

1

(2)  OJ C 192, 12.8.2002, p. 59.

2

---

| 4.4.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 81/28 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

4.4.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 81/28

---

Opinion of the Committee of the Regions Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament The 2005 Review of the EU Sustainable Development Strategy: Initial Stocktaking and Future Orientations

(2006/C 81/08)

THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS,

Having regard to the Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament on The 2005 Review of the EU Sustainable Development Strategy: Initial Stocktaking and Future Orientations, COM(2005) 37 final;

Having regard to the decision of the European Commission on 9 February 2005 to consult it on this subject, under Article 265(1) of the Treaty establishing the European Community;

Having regard to the decision taken by its Bureau on 12 April 2005 to instruct the Commission for Sustainable Development to draw up the opinion on the subject;

Having regard to the Communication from the Commission on A Sustainable Europe for a Better World: A European Union Strategy for Sustainable Development (Commission's proposal to the Gothenburg European Council), COM(2001)264 final;

Having regard to the Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions on

  Towards a global partnership for sustainable development

  , COM(2002) 82 final;

Having regard to the Communication from the Commission of 15 January 2002 to the Spring European Council in Barcelona on 15 and 16 March 2002, at which a new impetus was given to the strategy, adopted two years earlier at the Lisbon summit (COM(2002) 14), to make Europe the world's most dynamic, competitive and sustainable knowledge-based economy;

Having regard to the exploratory opinion from the European Economic and Social Committee adopted on 28 April 2004, NAT/229 — CESE 661/2004;

Having regard to the Declaration on Guiding Principles for Sustainable Development from the European Council on 16 and 17 June 2005;

Having regard to its opinion on the Communication on Towards a thematic strategy on the sustainable use of natural resources, COM(2003) 572 final — CdR 11/2004 fin (1));

Having regard to its opinion of 14 November 2001 on the Commission Communication entitled Ten years after Rio: Preparing for the World Summit on Sustainable Development in 2002, (COM(2001) 53) — CdR 37/2001 fin (2);

Having regard to its opinion of 15 June 2000 on the Proposal for a Decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on a Community framework for cooperation to promote sustainable urban development, (COM(1999) 557 final — 1999/0233 (COD)) — CdR 134/2000 fin (3);

Having regard to its opinion of 17 February on the Communication from the Commission to the Council, the European Parliament, the Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions on Directions towards sustainable agriculture, (COM(1999) 22 final) — CdR 183/1999 fin (4);

Having regard to its opinion on the Communication from the Commission on Trade and Development — Assisting developing countries to benefit from trade (COM(2002) 513 final) — CdR 100/2003 fin (5);

Having regard to its opinion on the Proposal for a Directive of the European Parliament and of the Council on Services in the internal market (COM(2004) 2 final-2004/0001 (COD) — CdR 154/2004 fin (6);

Having regard to its draft opinion (CdR 66/2005 rev. 1) adopted on 28 June 2005 by its Commission for sustainable development (rapporteur: Ms Mona-Lisa Norrman, Member of Jämtland County Council, (SE/PES));

Whereas

| 1) | Local and regional authorities are the decision-making and executive level which is closest to EU citizens. The measures needed to bring about sustainable development must be devised, accepted, implemented and monitored in dialogue with European Union citizens. |
| --- | --- |

1)

Local and regional authorities are the decision-making and executive level which is closest to EU citizens. The measures needed to bring about sustainable development must be devised, accepted, implemented and monitored in dialogue with European Union citizens.

| 2) | In the EU's 25 Member States it is the local and regional level where the practical coordination between different policy sectors must take place. Similarly, it is at local and regional level that EU cohesion policy is put into practice. |
| --- | --- |

2)

In the EU's 25 Member States it is the local and regional level where the practical coordination between different policy sectors must take place. Similarly, it is at local and regional level that EU cohesion policy is put into practice.

| 3) | It is through the combined impact of measures implemented locally and regionally, both within the EU and globally, that the unsustainable trends that we see today can be reversed. The appropriate slogan is: Think globally, act locally. |
| --- | --- |

3)

It is through the combined impact of measures implemented locally and regionally, both within the EU and globally, that the unsustainable trends that we see today can be reversed. The appropriate slogan is: Think globally, act locally.

adopted the following opinion unanimously at its 61st plenary session of 12 and 13 October 2005 (meeting of 12 October):

1.   The Committee of the Regions' views

General remarks

The Committee of the Regions

| 1.1 | welcomes the Commission Communication on the review of the EU Sustainable Development Strategy, which provides an initial assessment of the progress made and outlines a number of future orientations; |
| --- | --- |

1.1

welcomes the Commission Communication on the review of the EU Sustainable Development Strategy, which provides an initial assessment of the progress made and outlines a number of future orientations;

| 1.2 | stresses that not enough progress has been made since the Sustainable Development Strategy was adopted in Gothenburg in 2001; agrees with the Commission that the focus must now be on a proactive approach towards sustainable development and concrete action on the ground; |
| --- | --- |

1.2

stresses that not enough progress has been made since the Sustainable Development Strategy was adopted in Gothenburg in 2001; agrees with the Commission that the focus must now be on a proactive approach towards sustainable development and concrete action on the ground;

| 1.3 | points out that a three-dimensional approach to sustainable development, embracing economic, ecological and social aspects, is a precondition for growth, more and better jobs, increased welfare and a cleaner and healthier environment; |
| --- | --- |

1.3

points out that a three-dimensional approach to sustainable development, embracing economic, ecological and social aspects, is a precondition for growth, more and better jobs, increased welfare and a cleaner and healthier environment;

| 1.4 | emphasises the importance of integrating and highlighting sustainable development in all areas of EU policy. It is important that cohesion policy supports the economic as well as the ecological and social dimensions and that due regard is paid to the long-term effects of policy. Equally, the future European Policy on Development and policy on Africa should ensure consistent support for sustainable development in international activities; |
| --- | --- |

1.4

emphasises the importance of integrating and highlighting sustainable development in all areas of EU policy. It is important that cohesion policy supports the economic as well as the ecological and social dimensions and that due regard is paid to the long-term effects of policy. Equally, the future European Policy on Development and policy on Africa should ensure consistent support for sustainable development in international activities;

International trade

| 1.5 | stresses that the Lisbon Strategy is the basis for the EU's response to the impact of globalisations on competition, economy and labour force in Europe, but this should also reflect the impacts on sustainable development in Europe and internationally. The method to access sustainable development which is currently used, with regard to different international agreements, needs to be developed in order to better reflect the effect of globalization on public services and sustainable development at the local and regional level; |
| --- | --- |

1.5

stresses that the Lisbon Strategy is the basis for the EU's response to the impact of globalisations on competition, economy and labour force in Europe, but this should also reflect the impacts on sustainable development in Europe and internationally. The method to access sustainable development which is currently used, with regard to different international agreements, needs to be developed in order to better reflect the effect of globalization on public services and sustainable development at the local and regional level;

Dialogue and cooperation

| 1.6 | stresses the importance of effective dialogue with civil society. To this end the messages emanating from the Commission need to be consistent and well coordinated, and the strategy should be monitored and translated into concrete action; |
| --- | --- |

1.6

stresses the importance of effective dialogue with civil society. To this end the messages emanating from the Commission need to be consistent and well coordinated, and the strategy should be monitored and translated into concrete action;

The local and regional perspective

| 1.7 | would particularly highlight the role and responsibility of local and regional authorities in achieving sustainable development. All government levels should collaborate to determine and implement the changes necessary to achieve a sustainable society through strong leadership; |
| --- | --- |

1.7

would particularly highlight the role and responsibility of local and regional authorities in achieving sustainable development. All government levels should collaborate to determine and implement the changes necessary to achieve a sustainable society through strong leadership;

Focus on citizens

| 1.8 | stresses the importance of ensuring that efforts to promote sustainable development are geared to the needs and circumstances of EU citizens, in order to win their support. Local and regional authorities have an important role in this dialogue, and the Commission should support these efforts administratively and financially by:






  — | developing consultation arrangements and creating natural forums for dialogue and exchange of experiences; |
| --- | --- | --- |

1.8

stresses the importance of ensuring that efforts to promote sustainable development are geared to the needs and circumstances of EU citizens, in order to win their support. Local and regional authorities have an important role in this dialogue, and the Commission should support these efforts administratively and financially by:

—

developing consultation arrangements and creating natural forums for dialogue and exchange of experiences;

| — | supporting local and regional development projects, both within the EU and globally; |
| --- | --- |

—

supporting local and regional development projects, both within the EU and globally;

| — | increasing knowledge and awareness in the EU of the need for joint action to achieve a sustainable society; |
| --- | --- |

—

increasing knowledge and awareness in the EU of the need for joint action to achieve a sustainable society;

Public health, security and equality

| 1.9 | emphasises that public health, in the broad sense, is a key requirement for achieving sustainable development; |
| --- | --- |

1.9

emphasises that public health, in the broad sense, is a key requirement for achieving sustainable development;

| 1.10 | points out that security is a prerequisite for a good quality of life, and together with a broad public health perspective, lies at the heart of efforts to promote sustainable development; |
| --- | --- |

1.10

points out that security is a prerequisite for a good quality of life, and together with a broad public health perspective, lies at the heart of efforts to promote sustainable development;

| 1.11 | highlight also the need to incorporate an equal opportunities' perspective in initiatives to promote sustainable development; |
| --- | --- |

1.11

highlight also the need to incorporate an equal opportunities' perspective in initiatives to promote sustainable development;

Environmentally-driven businesses and green jobs

| 1.12 | endorses the Commission's view that our future quality of life will depend on our production and consumption patterns. We need to decouple economic growth from environmental degradation, through education and information on the health and environmental impact of goods and services. Environmental requirements in public procurement procedures also have an important part to play in changing production and consumption patterns; |
| --- | --- |

1.12

endorses the Commission's view that our future quality of life will depend on our production and consumption patterns. We need to decouple economic growth from environmental degradation, through education and information on the health and environmental impact of goods and services. Environmental requirements in public procurement procedures also have an important part to play in changing production and consumption patterns;

| 1.13 | underlines the need for measures to support the development of environmentally-driven businesses, especially SMEs. Research-intensive companies in the environmental technology sector should be specifically targeted for support in the context of the current proposal for the Seventh Framework Programme for Research, Technological Development and Demonstration (FP7); |
| --- | --- |

1.13

underlines the need for measures to support the development of environmentally-driven businesses, especially SMEs. Research-intensive companies in the environmental technology sector should be specifically targeted for support in the context of the current proposal for the Seventh Framework Programme for Research, Technological Development and Demonstration (FP7);

Objectives, measures and monitoring

| 1.14 | supports the Commission's plan to set clear objectives, targets and related deadlines. This will make it possible to monitor, measure and report on the progress made; |
| --- | --- |

1.14

supports the Commission's plan to set clear objectives, targets and related deadlines. This will make it possible to monitor, measure and report on the progress made;

| 1.15 | stresses the need for active measures and concrete action to promote sustainable development. The forthcoming action programme must also include tools for implementing and monitoring the various measures and include local and regional authorities as key partners in drawing up the action programme; |
| --- | --- |

1.15

stresses the need for active measures and concrete action to promote sustainable development. The forthcoming action programme must also include tools for implementing and monitoring the various measures and include local and regional authorities as key partners in drawing up the action programme;

Instruments for implementing sustainable development

| 1.16 | stresses the importance of devising new instruments and improving existing ones. This is necessary so that the measures needed to promote sustainable development can be implemented, evaluated and monitored. The following instruments should be developed and adapted so as to make an effective contribution towards achieving sustainable development: |
| --- | --- |

1.16

stresses the importance of devising new instruments and improving existing ones. This is necessary so that the measures needed to promote sustainable development can be implemented, evaluated and monitored. The following instruments should be developed and adapted so as to make an effective contribution towards achieving sustainable development:

—   Environmental management systems

The EU's Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) should be improved and adapted to sustainable development issues and needs. An environmental management system should be developed, including economic, ecological and social concerns.

—   Public procurement

Including environmental requirements in public procurement contracts is a powerful tool for encouraging changes in production and consumption patterns in society. It should be further strengthened by, for example, highlighting the possibility of taking into account the environmental benefits of locally produced goods and services. Public procurement currently accounts for 15 % of the EU's GDP, or around EUR 1,000 billion.

—   Technology procurement

Technology-procurement procedures should be developed, particularly in the fields of waste, energy, transport, water supply and sewerage, roads and other infrastructure. These are areas where the public sector has a responsibility at local and regional level.

Research and development

There is an urgent need to develop new and more environmentally sound technologies. The Commission's initiative to establish a number of technological platforms built on cooperation between the research community and the private business sector is a step in this direction. Discussions are being conducted by, for example, the European Parliament on the creation of ‘socially motivated research platforms’ for the express purpose of supporting and promoting sustainable development-related R&D. The Committee of the Regions endorses this initiative and would stress the need to extend it to include research and development in the fields of social and behavioural sciences. Specific initiatives are also needed to ensure that research results can be translated into practical action to further sustainable development at local and regional level.

—   Information and public awareness

The Commission has, inter alia, adopted minimum standards for stakeholder consultation prior to decision-making in the environmental field. In addition, various initiatives have been taken to encourage the involvement of the private business sector in the drive for sustainable development. The Commission is not always the best messenger here.

—   Cooperation and exchange of experience

The possibility to exchange experience and accumulate new knowledge through cooperation and interaction between various players are important parts of sustainable development efforts. A large number of organisations and networks within the EU are working to this end.

—   Monitoring and evaluation

Monitoring and evaluation tools are needed to enable effective and targeted action to be taken to promote sustainable development. Health and environmental impact assessments are two examples, but more needs to be done to develop these tools.

—   Market-based instruments

A number of market-based instruments are currently in use in the EU, such as environmentally-related taxes, emission-trading schemes and subsidies. These instruments need to be developed further, with the aim of ensuring that the prices of all economic activities reflect their true cost to society.

—   Spatial planning

Many of the measures needed to promote sustainable development touch upon land and water use at local and regional level and are linked to spatial planning, like the implementation of the EU water directive or the thematic strategies for the urban environment and waste.

—   Legislation

Legislation is another important tool for promoting sustainable development. However, some parts of both Community-wide and national legislation do not fully support efforts to promote sustainable development. Priority should be given to improving and developing existing legislation. In addition, coherence between different laws should be re-examined and improved, with the aim, inter alia, of establishing a simpler regulatory environment. Legislation should be backed up by new instruments and methods based on agreements between the social partners. Examples of this approach include agreements concluded in the context of the open coordination method, the Aalborg Charter and tripartite contracts.

2.   The Committee of the Regions' recommendations

The Committee of the Regions

| 2.1 | stresses the importance of giving centre stage to EU citizens in efforts to achieve a sustainable society. The dialogue on physical and economic measures and on changes in consumption and behaviour patterns must be conducted in the light of circumstances at local and regional level; |
| --- | --- |

2.1

stresses the importance of giving centre stage to EU citizens in efforts to achieve a sustainable society. The dialogue on physical and economic measures and on changes in consumption and behaviour patterns must be conducted in the light of circumstances at local and regional level;

| 2.2 | believes that the objectives and measures needed in the work to promote sustainable development must be based on and adapted to circumstances at local and regional level; |
| --- | --- |

2.2

believes that the objectives and measures needed in the work to promote sustainable development must be based on and adapted to circumstances at local and regional level;

| 2.3 | emphasises the importance of developing new instruments and improving existing ones. This is necessary so as to enable the implementation, evaluation and monitoring of the measures needed to deliver sustainable development; |
| --- | --- |

2.3

emphasises the importance of developing new instruments and improving existing ones. This is necessary so as to enable the implementation, evaluation and monitoring of the measures needed to deliver sustainable development;

| 2.4 | trusts that, in its ongoing review of the sustainable development strategy and its work on the action programme, the Commission will develop and deepen the dialogue with the local and regional level and intends to play an active role in ongoing efforts to achieve a sustainable society both within the European Union and globally. |
| --- | --- |

2.4

trusts that, in its ongoing review of the sustainable development strategy and its work on the action programme, the Commission will develop and deepen the dialogue with the local and regional level and intends to play an active role in ongoing efforts to achieve a sustainable society both within the European Union and globally.

Brussels, 12 October 2005.

The President

of the Committee of the Regions

Peter STRAUB

---

(1)  OJ C 121, 30.4.2004, p. 47

1

(2)  OJ C 107, 3.5.2002, p. 9

2

(3)  OJ C 317, 6.11.2000, p. 33

3

(4)  OJ C 156, 6.6.2000, p. 40

4

(5)  OJ C 23, 27.1.2004, p. 8

5

(6)  OJ C 43, 18.2.2005, p. 18

6

---

| 4.4.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 81/32 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

4.4.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 81/32

---

Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on The period of reflection: the structure, subjects and context for an assessment of the debate on the European Union

(2006/C 81/09)

THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS,

HAVING REGARD TO the decision of the European Parliament of 6 September 2005 to consult it on this matter, under the fourth paragraph of Article 265 of the Treaty establishing the European Community;

HAVING REGARD TO the decision of its President of 27 July 2005 to appoint, in accordance with Rule 40(2) of the Rules of Procedure, Mr Franz Schausberger, Representative of Land Salzburg in the Committee of the Regions (AT-EPP) and Cllr Lord Tope, Greater London Authority (UK/ALDE) as rapporteurs-general for the opinion on this matter;

HAVING REGARD TO the Treaty establishing a Constitution for Europe signed by the heads of state or government on 29 October 2004 (CIG 87/04 rev. 1, CIG 87/04 Add 1 rev. 1, CIG 87/04 Add 2 rev. 1);

HAVING REGARD TO its opinion of 17 November 2004 on the Treaty establishing a Constitution for Europe (CoR 354/2003 fin (1));

HAVING REGARD TO its report of 6 November 2001 on Proximity (CdR 436/2000 fin);

adopted the following opinion at its 61st plenary session, held on 12 and 13 October 2005 (meeting of 13 October):

VIEWS AND RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS

The Committee of the Regions:

(a)   Context

| 1. | believes that, in order to safeguard peace, freedom and prosperity, a politically strong and democratic European Union, strong European leadership and strong interinstitutional cooperation to relaunch the European project are needed; |
| --- | --- |

1.

believes that, in order to safeguard peace, freedom and prosperity, a politically strong and democratic European Union, strong European leadership and strong interinstitutional cooperation to relaunch the European project are needed;

| 2. | expresses concern that too long a period of reflection would damage the EU's public image, and urges all institutions to work to reclaim and relaunch the core European ideal and project; |
| --- | --- |

2.

expresses concern that too long a period of reflection would damage the EU's public image, and urges all institutions to work to reclaim and relaunch the core European ideal and project;

| 3. | considers it advisable to use this period for reflection to examine what the public in the Member States thinks about the European Union and to consolidate the fundamental aims, values and principles of the EU, such as solidarity, effectiveness, transparency and cooperation, based on the support of its citizens; |
| --- | --- |

3.

considers it advisable to use this period for reflection to examine what the public in the Member States thinks about the European Union and to consolidate the fundamental aims, values and principles of the EU, such as solidarity, effectiveness, transparency and cooperation, based on the support of its citizens;

| 4. | reiterates the importance of the fundamental rights of the Union as enshrined in the charter included in the Constitutional Treaty; |
| --- | --- |

4.

reiterates the importance of the fundamental rights of the Union as enshrined in the charter included in the Constitutional Treaty;

| 5. | believes that the European Union must take the results of the French and Dutch referenda seriously and must be seen to do so; considers that to proceed with the ratification process of the Constitutional Treaty without altering the original schedule and without serious reflection at European level would send a negative message to Europe's citizens and might engender further rejections in Member States; |
| --- | --- |

5.

believes that the European Union must take the results of the French and Dutch referenda seriously and must be seen to do so; considers that to proceed with the ratification process of the Constitutional Treaty without altering the original schedule and without serious reflection at European level would send a negative message to Europe's citizens and might engender further rejections in Member States;

| 6. | recognises however that the reasons for those rejections are many and varied and in some cases may not be in response to the Treaty itself; thus considers it fundamental to concentrate efforts above all on the context of the debate, focusing it on a successful agreement of the financial perspectives; reiterates however that more than a half of all Member States have already ratified the Treaty by their chosen method and the decisions of these Member States must count as much as those who voted against; |
| --- | --- |

6.

recognises however that the reasons for those rejections are many and varied and in some cases may not be in response to the Treaty itself; thus considers it fundamental to concentrate efforts above all on the context of the debate, focusing it on a successful agreement of the financial perspectives; reiterates however that more than a half of all Member States have already ratified the Treaty by their chosen method and the decisions of these Member States must count as much as those who voted against;

| 7. | reaffirms its commitment to the Constitutional Treaty and its advances which guarantee better European governance through its considerable improvement in the functioning, simplicity and transparency of the EU compared to the existing treaties; |
| --- | --- |

7.

reaffirms its commitment to the Constitutional Treaty and its advances which guarantee better European governance through its considerable improvement in the functioning, simplicity and transparency of the EU compared to the existing treaties;

| 8. | considers that in broadening out the debate on the future of the European Union its institutions should focus on the actual and potential practical benefits that membership and citizenship bring to its citizens; |
| --- | --- |

8.

considers that in broadening out the debate on the future of the European Union its institutions should focus on the actual and potential practical benefits that membership and citizenship bring to its citizens;

| 9. | in order to rebuild the trust of European citizens in the European project, calls on the EU institutions to:






  — | take decisions which are pending in those areas where the Union brings real added value to Europe's citizens; |
| --- | --- | --- |

9.

in order to rebuild the trust of European citizens in the European project, calls on the EU institutions to:

—

take decisions which are pending in those areas where the Union brings real added value to Europe's citizens;

| — | begin functioning in a much more decentralised manner, respecting and promoting the subsidiarity principle, which should be applied also on subnational levels; |
| --- | --- |

—

begin functioning in a much more decentralised manner, respecting and promoting the subsidiarity principle, which should be applied also on subnational levels;

| — | pro-actively demonstrate that a political union will not undermine Europe's cultural and linguistic diversity; |
| --- | --- |

—

pro-actively demonstrate that a political union will not undermine Europe's cultural and linguistic diversity;

| — | show that Europe will provide its citizens with opportunities to develop their personal and professional experience at a European level; |
| --- | --- |

—

show that Europe will provide its citizens with opportunities to develop their personal and professional experience at a European level;

| — | establish a permanent two-way dialogue with Europe's citizens; |
| --- | --- |

—

establish a permanent two-way dialogue with Europe's citizens;

| — | develop a culture of enhanced transparency, especially by making the workings of the Council more accessible, to enable citizens to better understand the EU decision-making process; |
| --- | --- |

—

develop a culture of enhanced transparency, especially by making the workings of the Council more accessible, to enable citizens to better understand the EU decision-making process;

| 10. | calls for the continuation of activities promoting the principle of subsidiarity in all areas and drawing on the advantages that the greater proximity of regional and local institutions can offer to citizens; |
| --- | --- |

10.

calls for the continuation of activities promoting the principle of subsidiarity in all areas and drawing on the advantages that the greater proximity of regional and local institutions can offer to citizens;

| 11. | calls upon the Member States to deepen political integration of the EU, which constitutes a fundamental basis to develop an enlarged Union, defining the aims, potential geographical limits and long term objectives of the integration process within the European Union; whereas EU membership shall entail respect for local and regional democratic self-government within the established constitutional framework of each country; |
| --- | --- |

11.

calls upon the Member States to deepen political integration of the EU, which constitutes a fundamental basis to develop an enlarged Union, defining the aims, potential geographical limits and long term objectives of the integration process within the European Union; whereas EU membership shall entail respect for local and regional democratic self-government within the established constitutional framework of each country;

| 12. | calls on politicians at Member State, regional and local levels to take the responsibility for their own actions in the areas falling in their responsibility and to refrain from the common habit of using ‘Brussels’ as scapegoat; underlines that the European Union can only succeed if politicians at European, national, regional and local level divide duties responsibly and acknowledge that institutional respect is essential for success, as a prerequisite for good governance; |
| --- | --- |

12.

calls on politicians at Member State, regional and local levels to take the responsibility for their own actions in the areas falling in their responsibility and to refrain from the common habit of using ‘Brussels’ as scapegoat; underlines that the European Union can only succeed if politicians at European, national, regional and local level divide duties responsibly and acknowledge that institutional respect is essential for success, as a prerequisite for good governance;

(b)   Structure of the debate

| 13. | believes that it is necessary for the EU institutions to engage in debate with the people and communities that they represent, reflecting the open approach taken to the drafting of the Treaty through a Convention that involved representatives of national parliaments, political parties, local and regional government, civil society as well as social partners. In this debate, it is essential to make clear to the public the added political, economic and social value of a European Union; |
| --- | --- |

13.

believes that it is necessary for the EU institutions to engage in debate with the people and communities that they represent, reflecting the open approach taken to the drafting of the Treaty through a Convention that involved representatives of national parliaments, political parties, local and regional government, civil society as well as social partners. In this debate, it is essential to make clear to the public the added political, economic and social value of a European Union;

| 14. | considers that in its capacity as institutional representative of local and regional government in the European Union, it has to play an active role in political and institutional initiatives during the period of reflection announced by the heads ofstate and government; to this end, proposes a roadmap (2) with a view to establishing a truly decentralised debate; |
| --- | --- |

14.

considers that in its capacity as institutional representative of local and regional government in the European Union, it has to play an active role in political and institutional initiatives during the period of reflection announced by the heads ofstate and government; to this end, proposes a roadmap (2) with a view to establishing a truly decentralised debate;

| 15. | calls on local and regional government to engage and inform their communities on the issues that affect them in the debate on the future of the European Union and to better explain the processes and practical achievements of European integration through a decentralised regional and local based information policy, believing that a debate conducted solely at the European level will fail to reach out to the general public, therefore necessitating structured debates with transnational elements led nationally, regionally and locally, involving its members and supported by the EU institutions; |
| --- | --- |

15.

calls on local and regional government to engage and inform their communities on the issues that affect them in the debate on the future of the European Union and to better explain the processes and practical achievements of European integration through a decentralised regional and local based information policy, believing that a debate conducted solely at the European level will fail to reach out to the general public, therefore necessitating structured debates with transnational elements led nationally, regionally and locally, involving its members and supported by the EU institutions;

| 16. | moreover, reaffirms the bottom-up approach, that is its hallmark, and commits itself, with the help of its members, to seek out and take on board the requests of regional and local authorities on Community policies and institutions, and to forward their input, not least in terms of political analysis and innovative proposals, to the European institutions; |
| --- | --- |

16.

moreover, reaffirms the bottom-up approach, that is its hallmark, and commits itself, with the help of its members, to seek out and take on board the requests of regional and local authorities on Community policies and institutions, and to forward their input, not least in terms of political analysis and innovative proposals, to the European institutions;

| 17. | recommends that dialogue with citizens should not be limited to one-off campaigns and should not focus on details of institutional workings; urges therefore the Union to focus on communicating information which is of direct practical benefit to citizens and which allows them to take advantage of EU opportunities available to them; |
| --- | --- |

17.

recommends that dialogue with citizens should not be limited to one-off campaigns and should not focus on details of institutional workings; urges therefore the Union to focus on communicating information which is of direct practical benefit to citizens and which allows them to take advantage of EU opportunities available to them;

| 18. | calls on the European institutions, Member States and the regional and local authorities to establish new and creative ways of interacting with citizens at grassroots, using for the debate modern electronic media (e.g. ‘Europe listens’ in Austria and ‘National forum on Europe’ in Ireland), and to ensure that the message is accessible in the native language of the citizen, and not only in selected EU languages; furthermore there is some responsibility on the institutions and Member States to counter factually incorrect statements about the European Union that citizens may be presented with, especially in the media; |
| --- | --- |

18.

calls on the European institutions, Member States and the regional and local authorities to establish new and creative ways of interacting with citizens at grassroots, using for the debate modern electronic media (e.g. ‘Europe listens’ in Austria and ‘National forum on Europe’ in Ireland), and to ensure that the message is accessible in the native language of the citizen, and not only in selected EU languages; furthermore there is some responsibility on the institutions and Member States to counter factually incorrect statements about the European Union that citizens may be presented with, especially in the media;

| 19. | recognises the vital role of the local and regional media, and in particular the local press, in this context, not least because they can communicate to citizens in lay terms and in their local language; |
| --- | --- |

19.

recognises the vital role of the local and regional media, and in particular the local press, in this context, not least because they can communicate to citizens in lay terms and in their local language;

(c)   Subjects for reflection

General scope

| 20. | considers that the provisions of the Constitutional Treaty relating to the Union's territorial dimension and the involvement of local and regional authorities, both institutionally through the CoR and more generally, constitute an important and positive development; |
| --- | --- |

20.

considers that the provisions of the Constitutional Treaty relating to the Union's territorial dimension and the involvement of local and regional authorities, both institutionally through the CoR and more generally, constitute an important and positive development;

| 21. | calls upon the EU institutions to help to develop a real ‘subsidiarity culture’ within the Union, its Member States, and its regional and local authorities, and to apply without delay the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality provided for in the Constitutional Treaty as a simple and effective way to demonstrate to citizens that the Union will act only where the added value is clear and in respect for its principle of better lawmaking; |
| --- | --- |

21.

calls upon the EU institutions to help to develop a real ‘subsidiarity culture’ within the Union, its Member States, and its regional and local authorities, and to apply without delay the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality provided for in the Constitutional Treaty as a simple and effective way to demonstrate to citizens that the Union will act only where the added value is clear and in respect for its principle of better lawmaking;

| 22. | calls for application of the concept of ‘proximity’ in the application of EU policies and law, as this would be a visible sign of the will to implement procedures for more transparency as an immediate reaction to citizens' concerns; in this context the introduction of a new legal instrument facilitating interregional and cross-border cooperation, including economic and social cooperation, could be seen, for instance, as a clear sign towards a closer Europe of the citizens; |
| --- | --- |

22.

calls for application of the concept of ‘proximity’ in the application of EU policies and law, as this would be a visible sign of the will to implement procedures for more transparency as an immediate reaction to citizens' concerns; in this context the introduction of a new legal instrument facilitating interregional and cross-border cooperation, including economic and social cooperation, could be seen, for instance, as a clear sign towards a closer Europe of the citizens;

| 23. | underlines that whereas it would be desirable for these elements to have a place in the Treaty, many of the actions and obligations arising from these provisions can be integrated immediately into the Community's activities, such as extending impact assessments to include the financial and administrative impact of new EU law on local and regional authorities; |
| --- | --- |

23.

underlines that whereas it would be desirable for these elements to have a place in the Treaty, many of the actions and obligations arising from these provisions can be integrated immediately into the Community's activities, such as extending impact assessments to include the financial and administrative impact of new EU law on local and regional authorities;

| 24. | has in particular welcomed the following points in the Treaty as articles of good governance and wishes to ensure that their safeguard and implementation are fully considered during the period of reflection:






  — | recognition of the role of local and regional authorities in EU governance; |
| --- | --- | --- |

24.

has in particular welcomed the following points in the Treaty as articles of good governance and wishes to ensure that their safeguard and implementation are fully considered during the period of reflection:

—

recognition of the role of local and regional authorities in EU governance;

| — | better consultation prior to publication of legislative proposals; |
| --- | --- |

—

better consultation prior to publication of legislative proposals;

| — | account to be taken of the financial and administrative burden falling on local or regional authorities; |
| --- | --- |

—

account to be taken of the financial and administrative burden falling on local or regional authorities;

| — | a broader definition of subsidiarity to incorporate local and regional government; |
| --- | --- |

—

a broader definition of subsidiarity to incorporate local and regional government;

| — | recognition of the cultural and linguistic diversity as a source of wealth to be preserved, alongside the fundamental principle of cooperation and integration; |
| --- | --- |

—

recognition of the cultural and linguistic diversity as a source of wealth to be preserved, alongside the fundamental principle of cooperation and integration;

| — | enhancement of the role of the Committee of the Regions, in particular introduction of the right of recourse to the European Court of Justice in respect of its own prerogatives or breaches of subsidiarity; |
| --- | --- |

—

enhancement of the role of the Committee of the Regions, in particular introduction of the right of recourse to the European Court of Justice in respect of its own prerogatives or breaches of subsidiarity;

| — | reference to representative associations (e.g. of local or regional government); |
| --- | --- |

—

reference to representative associations (e.g. of local or regional government);

Topical issues for the debate

| 25. | considers that it is vitally important that the EU has the appropriate level of resources to undertake the tasks assigned to it; recalls its support for the European Commission proposals for the financial perspective during 2007-13; |
| --- | --- |

25.

considers that it is vitally important that the EU has the appropriate level of resources to undertake the tasks assigned to it; recalls its support for the European Commission proposals for the financial perspective during 2007-13;

| 26. | considers that now is the appropriate time to start reflecting on the basis for funding the EU budget in the long term, and to reinforce democratic control of the budget through the European Parliament; |
| --- | --- |

26.

considers that now is the appropriate time to start reflecting on the basis for funding the EU budget in the long term, and to reinforce democratic control of the budget through the European Parliament;

| 27. | reminds Member States that cohesion policy is an area where the EU has long demonstrated its real added value, whose visibility enables citizens to appreciate daily the EU's practical and positive work, and which represents the basis of European solidarity and thus distinguishes the European social model from other examples of transnational integration; |
| --- | --- |

27.

reminds Member States that cohesion policy is an area where the EU has long demonstrated its real added value, whose visibility enables citizens to appreciate daily the EU's practical and positive work, and which represents the basis of European solidarity and thus distinguishes the European social model from other examples of transnational integration;

| 28. | reiterates its support for the Partnership for Growth and Jobs (Lisbon Strategy) as a balanced approach between the economic goals, sustainable development and the modernisation and advancement of Europe's social model; |
| --- | --- |

28.

reiterates its support for the Partnership for Growth and Jobs (Lisbon Strategy) as a balanced approach between the economic goals, sustainable development and the modernisation and advancement of Europe's social model;

| 29. | believes that strengthening the EU's competitiveness also requires helping Europe's citizens to develop their talents and creativity beyond national borders; furthermore, believes that the value of a culturally diverse Union will become much more tangible to Europeans when they begin to experience life in a European context; therefore, in order to strengthen competitiveness and to connect citizens with the European project, stresses the need for the EU to continue facilitating free movement of people and to promoting greater mobility within the Union; |
| --- | --- |

29.

believes that strengthening the EU's competitiveness also requires helping Europe's citizens to develop their talents and creativity beyond national borders; furthermore, believes that the value of a culturally diverse Union will become much more tangible to Europeans when they begin to experience life in a European context; therefore, in order to strengthen competitiveness and to connect citizens with the European project, stresses the need for the EU to continue facilitating free movement of people and to promoting greater mobility within the Union;

| 30. | endorses its support for the EU strategy on sustainable development and stresses in particular that Community actions and funding for improving the environment should have powerful effects at the national, regional and local levels; |
| --- | --- |

30.

endorses its support for the EU strategy on sustainable development and stresses in particular that Community actions and funding for improving the environment should have powerful effects at the national, regional and local levels;

| 31. | recalls the unique character of European citizenship, as an element of identity, which does not replace national citizenship; |
| --- | --- |

31.

recalls the unique character of European citizenship, as an element of identity, which does not replace national citizenship;

| 32. | calls for much greater investment and collaboration in education (including life-long learning opportunities for all citizens), research and innovation at European and national level as the best means to create more and better jobs for Europe's citizens and to strengthen Europe's competitiveness in the global economy; |
| --- | --- |

32.

calls for much greater investment and collaboration in education (including life-long learning opportunities for all citizens), research and innovation at European and national level as the best means to create more and better jobs for Europe's citizens and to strengthen Europe's competitiveness in the global economy;

| 33. | is convinced that to better explain Europe and its policies, national, regional and local authorities should implement educational efforts, for example via the introduction of special courses in schools, European dimension in the school curricula, post-school education and training for teachers; |
| --- | --- |

33.

is convinced that to better explain Europe and its policies, national, regional and local authorities should implement educational efforts, for example via the introduction of special courses in schools, European dimension in the school curricula, post-school education and training for teachers;

| 34. | is, moreover, convinced that a positive European culture must be disseminated among regional and local public officials, who in their daily work must deal with regulations; |
| --- | --- |

34.

is, moreover, convinced that a positive European culture must be disseminated among regional and local public officials, who in their daily work must deal with regulations;

(d)   Assessment

| 35. | invites the EU institutions and the Member States to listen to the citizens in order to evaluate the results of the debate during the period of reflection; |
| --- | --- |

35.

invites the EU institutions and the Member States to listen to the citizens in order to evaluate the results of the debate during the period of reflection;

| 36. | is conscious that during the period of reflection various different scenarios are likely to be discussed, but is against abandoning this Constitutional Treaty in favour of the Nice Treaty, and calls for a consensual approach towards ratification by 2009; |
| --- | --- |

36.

is conscious that during the period of reflection various different scenarios are likely to be discussed, but is against abandoning this Constitutional Treaty in favour of the Nice Treaty, and calls for a consensual approach towards ratification by 2009;

| 37. | wishes to actively participate in the relaunching of the constitutional process and offers to the European Parliament support for its efforts to secure a successful outcome. |
| --- | --- |

37.

wishes to actively participate in the relaunching of the constitutional process and offers to the European Parliament support for its efforts to secure a successful outcome.

Brussels, 13 October 2005.

The President

of the Committee of the Regions

Peter STRAUB

---

(1)  OJ C 71 2005 of 22.3.2005, p. 1

1

(2)  Appendix

2

---

APPENDIX

Proposed CoR roadmap for a decentralised debate during the period of reflection

Starting points

| — | The period of reflection should be an active and dynamic phase of the dialogue process, with European institutions reaching out to the public in order to launch a structured, decentralised and high-quality debate on Europe, focusing on the issues which are most relevant to ordinary Europeans. |
| --- | --- |

—

The period of reflection should be an active and dynamic phase of the dialogue process, with European institutions reaching out to the public in order to launch a structured, decentralised and high-quality debate on Europe, focusing on the issues which are most relevant to ordinary Europeans.

| — | The debate should focus on governance rather than on the ratification mechanism; in view of the need to act at a level as close as possible to ordinary citizens, it should be conducted in European local authorities and regions rather than in Brussels, and the subject of the debate should be the purpose and added value of the EU, its fundamental values and policies, rather than the Constitutional Treaty. |
| --- | --- |

—

The debate should focus on governance rather than on the ratification mechanism; in view of the need to act at a level as close as possible to ordinary citizens, it should be conducted in European local authorities and regions rather than in Brussels, and the subject of the debate should be the purpose and added value of the EU, its fundamental values and policies, rather than the Constitutional Treaty.

| — | Local and regional assemblies and executive bodies should become actively involved at an institutional level, and should participate fully in the debate on the future of the EU, while shouldering their responsibilities vis-à-vis the public. |
| --- | --- |

—

Local and regional assemblies and executive bodies should become actively involved at an institutional level, and should participate fully in the debate on the future of the EU, while shouldering their responsibilities vis-à-vis the public.

| — | Possible subjects for the debate: the role and importance of fundamental rights as enshrined in the Charter included in the Constitutional Treaty, the European social model, solidarity, subsidiarity and proportionality, the single market, competitiveness, growth and employment, the environment, sustainable development, energy policy, public services and how to fund them, economic aspects of economic and monetary union, the challenges of globalisation for SMEs, rights and freedoms and the sense of belonging linked to European citizenship, the area of security, freedom and justice, enlargement versus closer integration, policies on education, research and innovation. Moreover, the topics covered should be adapted to particular circumstances identified at local and regional levels. |
| --- | --- |

—

Possible subjects for the debate: the role and importance of fundamental rights as enshrined in the Charter included in the Constitutional Treaty, the European social model, solidarity, subsidiarity and proportionality, the single market, competitiveness, growth and employment, the environment, sustainable development, energy policy, public services and how to fund them, economic aspects of economic and monetary union, the challenges of globalisation for SMEs, rights and freedoms and the sense of belonging linked to European citizenship, the area of security, freedom and justice, enlargement versus closer integration, policies on education, research and innovation. Moreover, the topics covered should be adapted to particular circumstances identified at local and regional levels.

| — | The CoR is keen to play a proactive role, in partnership with the European Parliament; MEPs and local and regional elected representatives will have to join forces to contribute to the political and democratic debate during the period of reflection. |
| --- | --- |

—

The CoR is keen to play a proactive role, in partnership with the European Parliament; MEPs and local and regional elected representatives will have to join forces to contribute to the political and democratic debate during the period of reflection.

| — | To enable effective and appropriate implementation of the proposed measures, the CoR would like to obtain additional funding; a new budget heading could even be introduced for this purpose from 2006 onwards. |
| --- | --- |

—

To enable effective and appropriate implementation of the proposed measures, the CoR would like to obtain additional funding; a new budget heading could even be introduced for this purpose from 2006 onwards.

Measures envisaged for 2006-2009

| — | European Forums could be set up simultaneously in all the Member States to facilitate open exchange and discussion on Europe, its values, objectives and frontiers:






  — | 1st phase (October 2005 — March 2006): establishment of regional committees comprising ‘ambassadors’ from local and regional authorities and representing the network of CoR members, political parties, members of regional and national parliaments, the local and regional media, civil society as well as social and educational players; these would serve to raise public awareness, particularly among young people, and to raise the profile of European policies. |
| --- | --- | --- |

—

European Forums could be set up simultaneously in all the Member States to facilitate open exchange and discussion on Europe, its values, objectives and frontiers:

—

1st phase (October 2005 — March 2006): establishment of regional committees comprising ‘ambassadors’ from local and regional authorities and representing the network of CoR members, political parties, members of regional and national parliaments, the local and regional media, civil society as well as social and educational players; these would serve to raise public awareness, particularly among young people, and to raise the profile of European policies.

| — | 2nd phase (from January 2006 — June 2009): holding public meetings in European cities and regions, with the participation of CoR members and MEPs, to discuss problems which have been identified: |
| --- | --- |

—

2nd phase (from January 2006 — June 2009): holding public meetings in European cities and regions, with the participation of CoR members and MEPs, to discuss problems which have been identified:

| — | to identify target groups: local and regional administration, journalists, teachers, young people, etc.;






  — | in cooperation with the European Parliament and with the assistance of the media, to identify problems which ordinary Europeans feel to be particularly relevant, by listening to the problems and fears expressed by them at public meetings; |
| --- | --- | --- |

—

to identify target groups: local and regional administration, journalists, teachers, young people, etc.;

—

in cooperation with the European Parliament and with the assistance of the media, to identify problems which ordinary Europeans feel to be particularly relevant, by listening to the problems and fears expressed by them at public meetings;

| — | to prepare a range of communication tools for CoR members to use; |
| --- | --- |

—

to prepare a range of communication tools for CoR members to use;

| — | to communicate with local and national media; |
| --- | --- |

—

to communicate with local and national media;

| — | to use online forums for debate and create virtual regional forums; |
| --- | --- |

—

to use online forums for debate and create virtual regional forums;

| — | to publish information documents. |
| --- | --- |

—

to publish information documents.

| — | 3rd phase (from January 2007): to evaluate and consolidate the results of the debate conducted in the cities and regions of Europe. |
| --- | --- |

—

3rd phase (from January 2007): to evaluate and consolidate the results of the debate conducted in the cities and regions of Europe.

| — | To hold annual conferences in Brussels for the local and regional media; these would be organised by the CoR in cooperation with other European institutions, with financial support from the European Commission. The first of these would be held in 2006. |
| --- | --- |

—

To hold annual conferences in Brussels for the local and regional media; these would be organised by the CoR in cooperation with other European institutions, with financial support from the European Commission. The first of these would be held in 2006.

| — | The CoR's Press & Communications Unit could collaborate with local and regional representation offices in Brussels in drawing up a study on information activity; and links with the local and regional media. This subject could be chosen as the central theme of the CoR's Open Days in 2006. |
| --- | --- |

—

The CoR's Press & Communications Unit could collaborate with local and regional representation offices in Brussels in drawing up a study on information activity; and links with the local and regional media. This subject could be chosen as the central theme of the CoR's Open Days in 2006.

| — | To draft a targeted brochure on the added value of Community action and its relevance to ordinary Europeans; this brochure could be presented by CoR members and widely distributed. The brochure would be based on new ideas presented in an easy-to-understand, informative way so as to arouse public interest. |
| --- | --- |

—

To draft a targeted brochure on the added value of Community action and its relevance to ordinary Europeans; this brochure could be presented by CoR members and widely distributed. The brochure would be based on new ideas presented in an easy-to-understand, informative way so as to arouse public interest.

| — | To launch a public awareness-raising strategy targeted at young people in particular as the European citizens of the future who will be voting for the first time in 2009. |
| --- | --- |

—

To launch a public awareness-raising strategy targeted at young people in particular as the European citizens of the future who will be voting for the first time in 2009.

---

| 4.4.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 81/37 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

4.4.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 81/37

---

Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on Women and Poverty in the European Union

(2006/C 81/10)

THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS,

Having regard to the decision of the European Parliament of 11 May 2005 to consult it on the subject of Women and Poverty in the European Union, under the fourth paragraph of Article 265 of the Treaty establishing the European Community;

Having regard to the decision of its President of 19 May 2005 to instruct its Commission for Economic and Social Policy to draw up an opinion on this subject;

Having regard to Article 2 of the EC Treaty (1), which states that the promotion of equality between men and women is one of the tasks of the Community;

Having regard to Article 3 of the EC Treaty, which states that the Community shall aim to eliminate inequalities, and to promote equality, between men and women in all the policies of the European Union;

Having regard to Article 13 of the EC Treaty, which gives the Commission the right to take appropriate action to combat discrimination of all kinds, including discrimination based on sex;

Having regard to Article 141 of the EC Treaty, which stipulates that the principle of equal pay for male and female workers for equal work or work of equal value be applied;

Having regard to Article 23 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, which stipulates that the principle of equality between women and men must be ensured in all areas;

Having regard to the Conclusions of the Lisbon Summit (2000), which set the aim of achieving an overall employment rate of 70 % and to increase the number of women in employment to 60 % by 2010;

Having regard to the Council Decision establishing a Programme relating to the Community framework strategy on gender equality (2001-2005) (2);

Having regard to its Opinion on Equal Opportunities for Women and Men in the European Union (CdR 161/1996 fin);

Having regard to its Opinion on the Commission Communication Towards a Community framework strategy on gender equality (2001-2005) and the Proposal for a Council Decision establishing an action programme relating to the Community framework strategy on gender equality
   (3) (CdR 233/2000 fin);

Having regard to its Opinion on the Proposal for a Council Directive implementing the principle of equal treatment between women and men in the access to and supply of goods and services
   (4) (CdR 19/2004 fin);

Having regard to its Opinion on the Communication from the Commission on establishing the guidelines for the second round of the Community Initiative EQUAL concerning transnational cooperation to promote new means of combating all forms of discrimination and inequalities in connection with the labour market: Free movement of good ideas
   (5) (CdR 96/2004 fin);

Having regard to its Opinion of 18 November 2004 on the Green Paper on Equality and non-discrimination in an enlarged European Union
   (6) (CdR 241/2004 fin);

Having regard to its Opinion on the Proposal for a Regulation on the European Social Fund
   (7) and the Proposal for a Decision establishing a Community Programme for Employment and Social Solidarity — PROGRESS
   (8) (CdR 240/2004 fin);

Having regard to its Opinion on the Communication from the Commission on the Social Agenda
   (9) (CdR 80/2005 rev.1);

Having regard to the Declaration of the Fourth World Conference on Women adopted in Beijing on 15 September 1995 (Beijing Declaration), and the Platform for Action appended thereto;

Having regard to the Millennium Development Goals (MDG), and more especially the goals to ‘promote gender equality and empower women’ and to ‘improve maternal health’;

Whereas, in accordance with the Beijing Declaration, ‘eradication of poverty based on sustained economic growth, social development, environmental protection and social justice requires the involvement of women in economic and social development, equal opportunities and the full and equal participation of women and men as agents and beneficiaries of people-centred sustainable development’;

Having regard to its draft opinion (CdR 151/2005 rev.1) adopted on 29 June 2005 by the Commission for Economic and Social Policy (rapporteur: Ms Mireille Lacombe (FR/PES), Member of Puy-de-Dôme Council, France),

Unanimously adopted the following opinion at its 61st plenary session, held on 12 and 13 October 2005 (meeting of 13 October).

1.   The views of the Committee of the Regions

The Committee of the Regions

| 1.1 | considers that the European Parliament's referral should be assessed against the following background: |
| --- | --- |

1.1

considers that the European Parliament's referral should be assessed against the following background:

| 1.1.1 | Women, particularly older women and single mothers with one or more children, suffer to a greater extent than men from insecurity and poverty; 17 % of women still live below the at-risk of poverty threshold (10). |
| --- | --- |

1.1.1

Women, particularly older women and single mothers with one or more children, suffer to a greater extent than men from insecurity and poverty; 17 % of women still live below the at-risk of poverty threshold (10).

| 1.1.2 | For women, access to properly paid employment provides the best guarantee against insecurity, by ensuring their independence and autonomy and enabling them to cope with family breakdown. |
| --- | --- |

1.1.2

For women, access to properly paid employment provides the best guarantee against insecurity, by ensuring their independence and autonomy and enabling them to cope with family breakdown.

| 1.1.3 | In Europe, women make up almost half of the workforce (11). Across Europe, the norm is now for women to have paid employment. However, despite women's major advance into the labour market over time, the aim to increase the number of women in employment to 60 %, set at the Lisbon Summit in 2000, has not been achieved. Unemployment rates are still higher for women than for men in most countries. Similarly, women suffer disproportionately from long-term unemployment, particularly in southern Europe. |
| --- | --- |

1.1.3

In Europe, women make up almost half of the workforce (11). Across Europe, the norm is now for women to have paid employment. However, despite women's major advance into the labour market over time, the aim to increase the number of women in employment to 60 %, set at the Lisbon Summit in 2000, has not been achieved. Unemployment rates are still higher for women than for men in most countries. Similarly, women suffer disproportionately from long-term unemployment, particularly in southern Europe.

The Committee of the Regions

| 1.2 | stresses that the multiple forms of discrimination to which women are subject are also obstacles to the realisation of European objectives: |
| --- | --- |

1.2

stresses that the multiple forms of discrimination to which women are subject are also obstacles to the realisation of European objectives:

| 1.2.1 | Women's salaries remain lower than men's. Despite the 1975 Directive on the principle of equal pay for work of equal value, the wage gap between women and men still stands at around 15 %. (12) Wage inequalities reflect the real obstacles and resistance of the labour market to integrate women on an equal footing with men. |
| --- | --- |

1.2.1

Women's salaries remain lower than men's. Despite the 1975 Directive on the principle of equal pay for work of equal value, the wage gap between women and men still stands at around 15 %. (12) Wage inequalities reflect the real obstacles and resistance of the labour market to integrate women on an equal footing with men.

| 1.2.2 | Take-up of flexible forms of work is also greater amongst women, making them more vulnerable. In 2002, 33.5 % of women worked part-time, against 6.5 % of men. In ten years, the share of women in part-time work has increased twice as fast (4.7 points compared with 2.3 points). When women are not obliged to take up part-time work by employers, they are often forced to work part time as a result of the lack of high-quality care provision for children or elderly parents. Women's quality of life is eroded by the double shift. Although men do now believe they have a key role to play in gender equality, the actual division of domestic labour within the couple has changed very little. What women have gained in terms of autonomy through work has often been counterbalanced by declining quality of life in the most disadvantaged groups. In the face of these constraints, the ‘choices’ to work part time or to stop work after the birth of a child are individual responses to difficult situations. This heightens the risk of insecurity if family breakdown occurs. |
| --- | --- |

1.2.2

Take-up of flexible forms of work is also greater amongst women, making them more vulnerable. In 2002, 33.5 % of women worked part-time, against 6.5 % of men. In ten years, the share of women in part-time work has increased twice as fast (4.7 points compared with 2.3 points). When women are not obliged to take up part-time work by employers, they are often forced to work part time as a result of the lack of high-quality care provision for children or elderly parents. Women's quality of life is eroded by the double shift. Although men do now believe they have a key role to play in gender equality, the actual division of domestic labour within the couple has changed very little. What women have gained in terms of autonomy through work has often been counterbalanced by declining quality of life in the most disadvantaged groups. In the face of these constraints, the ‘choices’ to work part time or to stop work after the birth of a child are individual responses to difficult situations. This heightens the risk of insecurity if family breakdown occurs.

| 1.2.3 | Women make up the majority of the elderly (13) and there are considerable and significant gaps between monthly pension entitlements (14). |
| --- | --- |

1.2.3

Women make up the majority of the elderly (13) and there are considerable and significant gaps between monthly pension entitlements (14).

| 1.2.4 | The violence to which women are subjected is the greatest and gravest manifestation of the discrimination they face. Gender-based violence has a devastating impact on women, disrupting their personal lives, destabilising their working lives and contributing to exclusion. Such violence is cited as one of the reasons for women's disproportionately low participation in public and political life. Domestic violence is one of the main reasons for family breakdown. |
| --- | --- |

1.2.4

The violence to which women are subjected is the greatest and gravest manifestation of the discrimination they face. Gender-based violence has a devastating impact on women, disrupting their personal lives, destabilising their working lives and contributing to exclusion. Such violence is cited as one of the reasons for women's disproportionately low participation in public and political life. Domestic violence is one of the main reasons for family breakdown.

The Committee of the Regions

| 1.2.5 | regrets that EU primary legislation, despite its transnational nature and its primacy in all EU Member States, provides no specific legal basis for direct action to combat violence against women; |
| --- | --- |

1.2.5

regrets that EU primary legislation, despite its transnational nature and its primacy in all EU Member States, provides no specific legal basis for direct action to combat violence against women;

| 1.2.6 | points out that the issue of trafficking and prostitution remains acute: this problem does not only affect the countries of origin and destination, but also the countries of transit. The approach to this issue must transcend the purely repressive measures taken via the programmes managed by the European Commission's Directorate-General for Justice, Freedom and Security; it requires attention from all parties involved in the fight against exclusion, offering social integration, training and employment opportunities; |
| --- | --- |

1.2.6

points out that the issue of trafficking and prostitution remains acute: this problem does not only affect the countries of origin and destination, but also the countries of transit. The approach to this issue must transcend the purely repressive measures taken via the programmes managed by the European Commission's Directorate-General for Justice, Freedom and Security; it requires attention from all parties involved in the fight against exclusion, offering social integration, training and employment opportunities;

| 1.2.7 | draws attention to the specific situation of ethnic minority women within the European Union, for whom difficulties in accessing education contribute to exclusion, as does the weight of certain traditions, which hinder their integration into European society. |
| --- | --- |

1.2.7

draws attention to the specific situation of ethnic minority women within the European Union, for whom difficulties in accessing education contribute to exclusion, as does the weight of certain traditions, which hinder their integration into European society.

The Committee of the Regions

| 1.3 | offers the following diagnosis: it is unequal treatment between women and men that causes insecurity or the risk of insecurity, with the attendant risks of descent into poverty and exclusion; |
| --- | --- |

1.3

offers the following diagnosis: it is unequal treatment between women and men that causes insecurity or the risk of insecurity, with the attendant risks of descent into poverty and exclusion;

| 1.3.1 | welcomes the fact that EU legislation on combating discrimination is amongst the most advanced in the world and is generally considered to be an effective model; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.1

welcomes the fact that EU legislation on combating discrimination is amongst the most advanced in the world and is generally considered to be an effective model;

| 1.3.2 | points out that although the network of legal experts on the application of Community law on equal treatment between women and men considers that ‘the principle of equal treatment between men and women appears to have been implemented in all the national legal systems’, it also notes that difficulties still occur in defining the concepts of direct and indirect discrimination.
  The network also states that the definition of positive discrimination and application of the principle of reversal of the burden of proof remains problematic in some Member States. |
| --- | --- |

1.3.2

points out that although the network of legal experts on the application of Community law on equal treatment between women and men considers that ‘the principle of equal treatment between men and women appears to have been implemented in all the national legal systems’, it also notes that difficulties still occur in defining the concepts of direct and indirect discrimination.

The network also states that the definition of positive discrimination and application of the principle of reversal of the burden of proof remains problematic in some Member States.

The Committee of the Regions

| 1.3.3 | notes, however, that adequate steps have not been taken to implement the gender mainstreaming strategy, which involves integrating the gender equality dimension into all macro-economic policies; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.3

notes, however, that adequate steps have not been taken to implement the gender mainstreaming strategy, which involves integrating the gender equality dimension into all macro-economic policies;

| 1.3.4 | stresses that the EC's Court of Justice has considered, for example in its judgment in the case C-285/98 Tanja Kreil (11 January 2000), that the right not to suffer discrimination on the grounds of sex is a fundamental right in Community law and that any derogation from it must be interpreted strictly. The Court also specified in this judgment that, in determining the scope of any derogation from an individual right such as the equal treatment of men and women, the principle of proportionality must also be observed and that this principle requires that derogations remain within the limits of what is appropriate and necessary in order to achieve the aim in view; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.4

stresses that the EC's Court of Justice has considered, for example in its judgment in the case C-285/98 Tanja Kreil (11 January 2000), that the right not to suffer discrimination on the grounds of sex is a fundamental right in Community law and that any derogation from it must be interpreted strictly. The Court also specified in this judgment that, in determining the scope of any derogation from an individual right such as the equal treatment of men and women, the principle of proportionality must also be observed and that this principle requires that derogations remain within the limits of what is appropriate and necessary in order to achieve the aim in view;

| 1.3.5 | while pointing out that policies for improving work-life balance do not run counter to recognition of women's right to work, regrets policies aiming to encourage women to return to the home when such policies have the sole aim of reducing the unemployment figures; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.5

while pointing out that policies for improving work-life balance do not run counter to recognition of women's right to work, regrets policies aiming to encourage women to return to the home when such policies have the sole aim of reducing the unemployment figures;

| 1.3.6 | notes that, in all the Member States, part-time work — the share of which in total employment varies from 18 % in the EU-15 to 10 % in new Member States and candidate countries — remains the preserve of women, and, with the exception of Slovenia, the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Cyprus, the majority of women claim (as in Greece, Portugal, Italy, Finland and Sweden) that, given the option, they would prefer to work full-time. Women who have ‘chosen’ to work part-time (over 40 % in Denmark and Sweden, over 60 % in France, Luxembourg and the United Kingdom) usually do so because of family responsibilities; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.6

notes that, in all the Member States, part-time work — the share of which in total employment varies from 18 % in the EU-15 to 10 % in new Member States and candidate countries — remains the preserve of women, and, with the exception of Slovenia, the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Cyprus, the majority of women claim (as in Greece, Portugal, Italy, Finland and Sweden) that, given the option, they would prefer to work full-time. Women who have ‘chosen’ to work part-time (over 40 % in Denmark and Sweden, over 60 % in France, Luxembourg and the United Kingdom) usually do so because of family responsibilities;

| 1.3.7 | emphasises that striking an adequate balance between job flexibility and security is essential for achieving the fundamental goals of the Lisbon strategy, which advocates more flexible organisation of work. Such arrangements are intended to create favourable conditions for full employment, social cohesion and the establishment of a readily accessible labour market; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.7

emphasises that striking an adequate balance between job flexibility and security is essential for achieving the fundamental goals of the Lisbon strategy, which advocates more flexible organisation of work. Such arrangements are intended to create favourable conditions for full employment, social cohesion and the establishment of a readily accessible labour market;

| 1.3.8 | is in favour of more flexible work arrangements which do not conflict with the aim of achieving professional equality between men and women in the European Union; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.8

is in favour of more flexible work arrangements which do not conflict with the aim of achieving professional equality between men and women in the European Union;

| 1.3.9 | endorses the definition espoused at European level, i.e. that indirect discrimination occurs where an apparently neutral provision, criterion or practice would put persons of one sex at a particular disadvantage compared with persons of the other sex and is not objectively justified by a legitimate aim. Indirect discrimination has a destructive impact on women and stems from gender-blind public policies that fail to assess their different impacts on women and men sufficiently early in the policy-making process; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.9

endorses the definition espoused at European level, i.e. that indirect discrimination occurs where an apparently neutral provision, criterion or practice would put persons of one sex at a particular disadvantage compared with persons of the other sex and is not objectively justified by a legitimate aim. Indirect discrimination has a destructive impact on women and stems from gender-blind public policies that fail to assess their different impacts on women and men sufficiently early in the policy-making process;

| 1.3.10 | notes that although the principle of gender mainstreaming appears in planning documents for Member States' devolved regional policies, this principle has not been applied systematically when implementing programmes: gender is often merely cited, rather than being made a real consideration in project selection.
  The Committee calls on the EU's regional and local authorities to accord greater importance to the potential for change that could be achieved by a strategy of mainstreaming gender equality in all stages of planning and implementing regional policies. |
| --- | --- |

1.3.10

notes that although the principle of gender mainstreaming appears in planning documents for Member States' devolved regional policies, this principle has not been applied systematically when implementing programmes: gender is often merely cited, rather than being made a real consideration in project selection.

The Committee calls on the EU's regional and local authorities to accord greater importance to the potential for change that could be achieved by a strategy of mainstreaming gender equality in all stages of planning and implementing regional policies.

| 1.4 | The feminisation of poverty in the global context |
| --- | --- |

1.4

The feminisation of poverty in the global context

The Committee of the Regions

| 1.4.1 | has already welcomed the fact that the European Commission considers equality between women and men to be a key objective of the EU's external and development policy and an essential feature of the core labour standards adopted at international level (15).
  This is all the more important in the light of the International Labour Organisation's observation that 70 % of the world's 1.3 billion people living below the poverty line (i.e. on an income of less than one US dollar per day) are women; |
| --- | --- |

1.4.1

has already welcomed the fact that the European Commission considers equality between women and men to be a key objective of the EU's external and development policy and an essential feature of the core labour standards adopted at international level (15).

This is all the more important in the light of the International Labour Organisation's observation that 70 % of the world's 1.3 billion people living below the poverty line (i.e. on an income of less than one US dollar per day) are women;

| 1.4.2 | points out that in this context, the Beijing Platform for Action remains fully relevant, in particular the four strategic objectives relating to ‘women and poverty’:






  — | review, adopt and maintain macroeconomic policies and development strategies that address the needs and efforts of women in poverty; |
| --- | --- | --- |

1.4.2

points out that in this context, the Beijing Platform for Action remains fully relevant, in particular the four strategic objectives relating to ‘women and poverty’:

—

review, adopt and maintain macroeconomic policies and development strategies that address the needs and efforts of women in poverty;

| — | revise laws and administrative practices to ensure women's equal rights and access to economic resources; |
| --- | --- |

—

revise laws and administrative practices to ensure women's equal rights and access to economic resources;

| — | provide women with access to savings and credit mechanisms and institutions; |
| --- | --- |

—

provide women with access to savings and credit mechanisms and institutions;

| — | develop gender-based methodologies and conduct research to address the feminisation of poverty; |
| --- | --- |

—

develop gender-based methodologies and conduct research to address the feminisation of poverty;

| 1.4.3 | stresses, however, that the implementation of these strategic objectives should not be confined to the EU's external and development policies: it should also underpin the fight against the feminisation of poverty within the Union. |
| --- | --- |

1.4.3

stresses, however, that the implementation of these strategic objectives should not be confined to the EU's external and development policies: it should also underpin the fight against the feminisation of poverty within the Union.

2.   The recommendations of the Committee of the Regions

The Committee of the Regions

| 2.1 | considers local and regional authorities to be the level of government closest to the citizen and therefore best placed to combat exclusion; |
| --- | --- |

2.1

considers local and regional authorities to be the level of government closest to the citizen and therefore best placed to combat exclusion;

| 2.2 | believes that, whilst it is important to combat poverty, the priority must be to eradicate, at local and regional level, the inequalities which cause it; |
| --- | --- |

2.2

believes that, whilst it is important to combat poverty, the priority must be to eradicate, at local and regional level, the inequalities which cause it;

| 2.3 | calls on Member States to promote services of general interest which are capable of making women's employment more secure, consolidating social protection of individuals and combating the feminisation of poverty; |
| --- | --- |

2.3

calls on Member States to promote services of general interest which are capable of making women's employment more secure, consolidating social protection of individuals and combating the feminisation of poverty;

| 2.4 | highlights the restrictions on immigrant women's ability to access social protection, since they are often seen only as the wives or daughters of immigrant men; |
| --- | --- |

2.4

highlights the restrictions on immigrant women's ability to access social protection, since they are often seen only as the wives or daughters of immigrant men;

| 2.5 | urges the appropriate levels of government to take better account of the issue of violence against women; |
| --- | --- |

2.5

urges the appropriate levels of government to take better account of the issue of violence against women;

| 2.6 | calls on the relevant tiers of government to also consider the special circumstances of specific groups of women: women with disabilities, older women, and women living in rural areas, by offering solutions which address their specific additional difficulties; |
| --- | --- |

2.6

calls on the relevant tiers of government to also consider the special circumstances of specific groups of women: women with disabilities, older women, and women living in rural areas, by offering solutions which address their specific additional difficulties;

| 2.7 | calls on the Member States to establish more equitable rights in relation to paid parental leave so as to enable fathers to play a more active role in bringing up their children; |
| --- | --- |

2.7

calls on the Member States to establish more equitable rights in relation to paid parental leave so as to enable fathers to play a more active role in bringing up their children;

| 2.8 | points out that the EU accession of the central and eastern European countries led women in those countries to expect that the transposition of EU gender-equality legislation would improve equality and offer them new opportunities;
  therefore recommends that, with respect to the Member States which have experienced system change since 1989, gender disaggregated statistics be produced in order to investigate the effects of economic and political change on the gender equality situation on the ground. This study could form part of the work programme of the European institute for gender equality; |
| --- | --- |

2.8

points out that the EU accession of the central and eastern European countries led women in those countries to expect that the transposition of EU gender-equality legislation would improve equality and offer them new opportunities;

therefore recommends that, with respect to the Member States which have experienced system change since 1989, gender disaggregated statistics be produced in order to investigate the effects of economic and political change on the gender equality situation on the ground. This study could form part of the work programme of the European institute for gender equality;

| 2.9 | regrets the growing influence of various forms of religious fundamentalism which aim to restrict or abolish women's sexual and reproductive rights, and which have been evident for ten years at local and regional level across Europe; |
| --- | --- |

2.9

regrets the growing influence of various forms of religious fundamentalism which aim to restrict or abolish women's sexual and reproductive rights, and which have been evident for ten years at local and regional level across Europe;

| 2.10 | points out that encouraging women to take the opportunity of entrepreneurship in order to close the gender gap in European employment is crucial for the economic future and prosperity of the European Union, as is support from the relevant tiers of government to help women gain access to new technologies; |
| --- | --- |

2.10

points out that encouraging women to take the opportunity of entrepreneurship in order to close the gender gap in European employment is crucial for the economic future and prosperity of the European Union, as is support from the relevant tiers of government to help women gain access to new technologies;

| 2.11 | would nevertheless emphasise that the poorest women have only limited access to such opportunities, given their vulnerability, their precarious social position and the general reluctance of the credit sector and those providing access to financing for new businesses and economic activity to place confidence in them; |
| --- | --- |

2.11

would nevertheless emphasise that the poorest women have only limited access to such opportunities, given their vulnerability, their precarious social position and the general reluctance of the credit sector and those providing access to financing for new businesses and economic activity to place confidence in them;

| 2.12 | calls on the relevant tiers of government to put in place the necessary conditions for promoting women's participation in political life; |
| --- | --- |

2.12

calls on the relevant tiers of government to put in place the necessary conditions for promoting women's participation in political life;

| 2.13 | considers that introducing effective measures to combat the underlying inequalities must be the main priority. The key factors leading to the exclusion of the most disadvantaged groups are:






  — | the over-representation of women in low-skilled jobs resulting, on the one hand, from inadequate careers counselling and the frequent failure to recognise women's skills and qualifications and, on the other, from the fact that, once in these jobs, women tend to remain there, with no further career progress; |
| --- | --- | --- |

2.13

considers that introducing effective measures to combat the underlying inequalities must be the main priority. The key factors leading to the exclusion of the most disadvantaged groups are:

—

the over-representation of women in low-skilled jobs resulting, on the one hand, from inadequate careers counselling and the frequent failure to recognise women's skills and qualifications and, on the other, from the fact that, once in these jobs, women tend to remain there, with no further career progress;

| — | the development of forced part-time work, whose detrimental effect on women is heightened by the fact that it tends to go hand in hand with irregular shifts, thereby making balancing employment, family responsibilities and social participation still more difficult; |
| --- | --- |

—

the development of forced part-time work, whose detrimental effect on women is heightened by the fact that it tends to go hand in hand with irregular shifts, thereby making balancing employment, family responsibilities and social participation still more difficult;

| — | the nature of women's jobs, which have a wider impact on patterns of insecurity, beyond integration into employment; |
| --- | --- |

—

the nature of women's jobs, which have a wider impact on patterns of insecurity, beyond integration into employment;

| — | the unsuitability and inadequacy of care provision for small children and dependent older relatives: the existence of high-quality, affordable care is a prerequisite for women's participation in employment and social activities. |
| --- | --- |

—

the unsuitability and inadequacy of care provision for small children and dependent older relatives: the existence of high-quality, affordable care is a prerequisite for women's participation in employment and social activities.

The Committee of the Regions

| 2.14 | thinks that the fight against the feminisation of poverty both outside and inside the EU should give priority to equal access to education, eliminating female illiteracy, improving female access to vocational training, scientific and technical education, and further training, as well as female access to new information technologies, especially in rural communities; |
| --- | --- |

2.14

thinks that the fight against the feminisation of poverty both outside and inside the EU should give priority to equal access to education, eliminating female illiteracy, improving female access to vocational training, scientific and technical education, and further training, as well as female access to new information technologies, especially in rural communities;

| 2.15 | considers that women's talents must become a driving force for regional development:






  — | balancing work, family and personal life would be a major contribution to improving the employment rate and raising the birth-rate; |
| --- | --- | --- |

2.15

considers that women's talents must become a driving force for regional development:

—

balancing work, family and personal life would be a major contribution to improving the employment rate and raising the birth-rate;

| — | many women of child-bearing age have to 'choose' between a career and bringing up their children; |
| --- | --- |

—

many women of child-bearing age have to 'choose' between a career and bringing up their children;

| — | good policies supporting working parents could raise the birth and employment rates; |
| --- | --- |

—

good policies supporting working parents could raise the birth and employment rates;

| — | women who do take the option of dedicating themselves full time to their children during the pre-school years should have the opportunity to access advice and training in order to facilitate their re-entry into the labour market, and to minimise the impact on their career progression. |
| --- | --- |

—

women who do take the option of dedicating themselves full time to their children during the pre-school years should have the opportunity to access advice and training in order to facilitate their re-entry into the labour market, and to minimise the impact on their career progression.

| 2.16 | stresses the need to combat obstacles to the re-employment of women who have interrupted their careers: unequal access to housing, training, refresher courses and job opportunities, as well as discrimination on the labour market due to age and family responsibilities. |
| --- | --- |

2.16

stresses the need to combat obstacles to the re-employment of women who have interrupted their careers: unequal access to housing, training, refresher courses and job opportunities, as well as discrimination on the labour market due to age and family responsibilities.

The Committee of the Regions

| 2.17 | reiterates its commitment to strict respect for the subsidiarity principle:
  Community legislation must guarantee local authorities' freedom of choice with regard to the organisation and exercise of their powers, in accordance with national legislation;
  in the context of devolution, local and regional authorities are the appropriate tier of government for promoting dialogue with local communities, via their networks of elected representatives, and for assessing needs and providing practical solutions to problems relating to gender inequality; |
| --- | --- |

2.17

reiterates its commitment to strict respect for the subsidiarity principle:

Community legislation must guarantee local authorities' freedom of choice with regard to the organisation and exercise of their powers, in accordance with national legislation;

in the context of devolution, local and regional authorities are the appropriate tier of government for promoting dialogue with local communities, via their networks of elected representatives, and for assessing needs and providing practical solutions to problems relating to gender inequality;

| 2.18 | urges the Community budgetary authority to lower the financial eligibility thresholds for projects submitted under Community gender equality programmes, without lowering the ceilings. This would make it easier to match the projects (especially those for the exchange of good practice, but also those coming under decentralised cooperation projects) with the co-financing that can be mobilised by non-governmental organisations working at local and regional level. Women's organisations that operate at local, regional or national level and are capable of conducting transnational projects should also be able to access project funding; they should not be excluded on the grounds that they are not organised at EU level; |
| --- | --- |

2.18

urges the Community budgetary authority to lower the financial eligibility thresholds for projects submitted under Community gender equality programmes, without lowering the ceilings. This would make it easier to match the projects (especially those for the exchange of good practice, but also those coming under decentralised cooperation projects) with the co-financing that can be mobilised by non-governmental organisations working at local and regional level. Women's organisations that operate at local, regional or national level and are capable of conducting transnational projects should also be able to access project funding; they should not be excluded on the grounds that they are not organised at EU level;

| 2.19 | proposes that specific programmes be created for local and regional authorities, with a view to encouraging them to implement:






  — | programmes designed to integrate gender equality into all local and regional policies at all stages of the policy-making process (gender mainstreaming); |
| --- | --- | --- |

2.19

proposes that specific programmes be created for local and regional authorities, with a view to encouraging them to implement:

—

programmes designed to integrate gender equality into all local and regional policies at all stages of the policy-making process (gender mainstreaming);

| — | programmes to take better account of women's needs and the disaggregation of resources by gender when drawing up local and regional authority budgets (gender budgeting); |
| --- | --- |

—

programmes to take better account of women's needs and the disaggregation of resources by gender when drawing up local and regional authority budgets (gender budgeting);

| — | awareness-raising programmes for elected representatives and training programmes for local authority staff to enable them to conduct gender equality policies; |
| --- | --- |

—

awareness-raising programmes for elected representatives and training programmes for local authority staff to enable them to conduct gender equality policies;

| — | trans-national cooperation to circulate good practice in the area of gender equality; |
| --- | --- |

—

trans-national cooperation to circulate good practice in the area of gender equality;

| — | new forms of management and governance through which women can reach the most senior levels in all decision-making bodies in order to give gender equality issues greater political resonance; |
| --- | --- |

—

new forms of management and governance through which women can reach the most senior levels in all decision-making bodies in order to give gender equality issues greater political resonance;

| 2.20 | suggests that the European Commission draw up a handbook of good practice regarding the implementation of gender policies, for the benefit of the EU's local and regional authorities; |
| --- | --- |

2.20

suggests that the European Commission draw up a handbook of good practice regarding the implementation of gender policies, for the benefit of the EU's local and regional authorities;

| 2.21 | calls on the EU's local and regional authorities to make gender equality a fully fledged part of their decentralised cooperation projects, for example by means of projects focusing on female access to education, or to micro-funding for commercial activities; |
| --- | --- |

2.21

calls on the EU's local and regional authorities to make gender equality a fully fledged part of their decentralised cooperation projects, for example by means of projects focusing on female access to education, or to micro-funding for commercial activities;

| 2.22 | notes that on 31 May 2005 the Commission submitted a proposal for a decision on the European Year of Equal Opportunities for All (2007) — Towards a Just Society, which the Committee will address in a separate opinion.
  Nevertheless, in order to ensure that 2007 gives a new impetus to the practical application of European legislation to combat discrimination, and gender-based discrimination in particular, the CoR invites the EU institutions, as of now, to make use of its services as an information and action relay for the EU's local and regional authorities; |
| --- | --- |

2.22

notes that on 31 May 2005 the Commission submitted a proposal for a decision on the European Year of Equal Opportunities for All (2007) — Towards a Just Society, which the Committee will address in a separate opinion.

Nevertheless, in order to ensure that 2007 gives a new impetus to the practical application of European legislation to combat discrimination, and gender-based discrimination in particular, the CoR invites the EU institutions, as of now, to make use of its services as an information and action relay for the EU's local and regional authorities;

| 2.23 | draws attention to the requirement for territorial cohesion in the financial perspectives for 2007-2013 and stresses the importance of the future Structural Funds continuing to support women's initiatives at local level, especially in the most disadvantaged regions in the EU. |
| --- | --- |

2.23

draws attention to the requirement for territorial cohesion in the financial perspectives for 2007-2013 and stresses the importance of the future Structural Funds continuing to support women's initiatives at local level, especially in the most disadvantaged regions in the EU.

Brussels, 13 October 2005.

The President

of the Committee of the Regions

Peter STRAUB

---

(1)  References of the treaties in force (Nice Treaty).

1

(2)  OJ L 17 of 19.1.2001, p. 22.

2

(3)  OJ C 144 of 16.5.2001, p.47 (COM(2000) 335 final – 2000/0143 CNS).

3

(4)  OJ C 121 of 30.4.2003, p.25 (COM(2003) 657 final – 2003/0265 CNS).

4

(5)  OJ C 318 of 22.12.2004, p.15 (COM(2003) 840 final).

5

(6)  OJ C 71 of 23.2.2005, p.62 (COM(2004) 379 final).

6

(7)  OJ C 164 of 5.7.2005, p.48 (COM(2004) 493 final – 2004/0165 COD).

7

(8)  OJ C 164 of 5.7.2005, p.48 (COM(2004) 488 final – 2004/0158 COD).

8

(9)  COM(2005) 33 final.

9

(10)  EU-25 – The at-risk of poverty threshold is defined as 60 % of the average national income, including benefits. Eurostat 2001.

10

(11)  44 % of women of working age are in employment in the EU.

11

(12)  Eurostat 2003. The wage gap ranges from 4 % in Malta to 25 % in Cyprus.

12

(13)  60 % of the over 65s and almost 2/3 of the over 75s.

13

(14)  For example, the average gap between women's and men's monthly pensions in France is 42 % (EUR 848 as against EUR 1416); in Spain the gap is 37 % (EUR 405 as against EUR 650) and in Austria, the figures vary from EUR 734 to EUR 1334.

14

(15)  CoR opinion on the Communication from the Commission on the social dimension of globalisation – the EU's policy contribution on extending the benefits to all (COM(2004) 383 final).

15

---

| 4.4.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 81/42 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

4.4.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 81/42

---

Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the Proposal for a Council Decision on the principles, priorities and conditions contained in the European Partnership with Croatia

(2006/C 81/11)

THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS,

HAVING REGARD TO the Proposal for a Council Decision on the principles, priorities and conditions contained in the European Partnership with Croatia (COM(2004) 275 final);

HAVING REGARD TO the European Commission's decision of 17 November 2004 to consult it under the first paragraph of Article 265 of the Treaty establishing the European Community;

HAVING REGARD TO its Bureau's decision of 15 June 2004 to instruct the Commission for External Relations to draw up an opinion on the European Commission's strategy on progress in the enlargement process;

HAVING REGARD TO the Presidency Conclusions of the June 2003 Thessaloniki European Council and the December 2004 Brussels European Council;

HAVING REGARD TO the Council Decision of 13 September 2004 on the principles, priorities and conditions contained in the European Partnership with Croatia;

HAVING REGARD TO the European Parliament report on the application by Croatia for accession to the European Union (A5-0206/2004);

HAVING REGARD TO the 2003 European Commission report on stabilisation and association;

HAVING REGARD TO the April 2004 Communication from the Commission: Opinion on Croatia's application for membership of the European Union (COM (2004) 257 final);

HAVING REGARD TO the Council Decision concerning the conclusion of the association and stabilisation agreement between the European Communities and their Member States, of the one part, and the Republic of Croatia, of the other part;

HAVING REGARD TO the Council Decision of 3 October 2005 in favour of opening accession negotiations with Croatia;

HAVING REGARD TO the declarations and recommendations adopted by the EU-Croatia Joint Parliamentary Committee on 5 October 2005;

HAVING REGARD TO its draft opinion (CdR 499/2004 rev.2), adopted by the Commission for External Relations on 30 June 2005 (rapporteur: Mr Gottardo, member of the Friuli Venezia Giulia Regional Council (IT/EPP));

CONSIDERING the added value of Croatia's prospective accession to the European Union, in terms of political stability and consolidating democracy in the Balkans, providing an example for the other countries in the region;

WHEREAS respect for democratic principles, the rule of law, human rights, the rights of minorities and fundamental freedoms is essential if a country is to benefit from Community assistance for strengthening its institutions and preparing for accession to the European Union;

adopted the following opinion at its 61st plenary session, held on 12 and 13 October 2005 (meeting of 13 October):

The Committee of the Regions' comments and recommendations

The Committee of the Regions:

1.   Principles, priorities and conditions contained in the European Partnership with Croatia

| 1.1 | welcomes the introduction of the European partnership, based on the Thessaloniki Agenda for the Western Balkans, and the priorities highlighted by the Commission regarding Croatia; and expects to be involved in the assessment to be carried out at the end of the set period with regard to the short-term priorities and, in particular, political priorities such as democracy, the rule of law, human rights and the protection of minorities; |
| --- | --- |

1.1

welcomes the introduction of the European partnership, based on the Thessaloniki Agenda for the Western Balkans, and the priorities highlighted by the Commission regarding Croatia; and expects to be involved in the assessment to be carried out at the end of the set period with regard to the short-term priorities and, in particular, political priorities such as democracy, the rule of law, human rights and the protection of minorities;

| 1.2 | stresses that administrative capacity-building and training of administrative staff are absolutely essential in Croatia in order for it to address the priorities arising from its accession obligations and to undertake the necessary fight against corruption; |
| --- | --- |

1.2

stresses that administrative capacity-building and training of administrative staff are absolutely essential in Croatia in order for it to address the priorities arising from its accession obligations and to undertake the necessary fight against corruption;

| 1.3 | considers, in this connection, that twinning with EU Member States' regional and local administrations is one of the tools which can be used to help improve the work of the public administration; therefore invites the Association Council to make use of the CoR and its ability to provide a wide range of expertise in this area; |
| --- | --- |

1.3

considers, in this connection, that twinning with EU Member States' regional and local administrations is one of the tools which can be used to help improve the work of the public administration; therefore invites the Association Council to make use of the CoR and its ability to provide a wide range of expertise in this area;

| 1.4 | welcomes the constitutional guarantees for national minorities which are an integral part of Croatian society and their necessary representation in central, regional and local governments, and the endeavours to protect the Roma minority; also welcomes the creation of joint ‘minority-central government’ interministerial commissions; |
| --- | --- |

1.4

welcomes the constitutional guarantees for national minorities which are an integral part of Croatian society and their necessary representation in central, regional and local governments, and the endeavours to protect the Roma minority; also welcomes the creation of joint ‘minority-central government’ interministerial commissions;

| 1.5 | stresses the need to ensure bilingualism in local public administrations wherever there are indigenous communities or communities belonging to linguistic minorities other than the Croatian community, not just at municipal and town level but at county level too; therefore stresses the need to bring the law on the territories of regions, towns and municipalities into line with the constitutional law on the rights of national minorities and the law on the languages of national minorities, in order to ensure the effective use of two languages in those regions, towns and municipalities whose respective Statutes provide for both Croatian and the minority language to be official languages; |
| --- | --- |

1.5

stresses the need to ensure bilingualism in local public administrations wherever there are indigenous communities or communities belonging to linguistic minorities other than the Croatian community, not just at municipal and town level but at county level too; therefore stresses the need to bring the law on the territories of regions, towns and municipalities into line with the constitutional law on the rights of national minorities and the law on the languages of national minorities, in order to ensure the effective use of two languages in those regions, towns and municipalities whose respective Statutes provide for both Croatian and the minority language to be official languages;

| 1.6 | calls for a public evaluation of coordination and cooperation between central and local authorities regarding refugee return, reconstruction and repossession of houses, implementation of the legislation providing for compensation for lost tenancy and/or occupation rights, and combating discrimination on the grounds of nationality or ethnic group in employment — these are fundamental for social and economic reintegration of returnees, which should be based on regional programmes and seen as an integral part of local development; |
| --- | --- |

1.6

calls for a public evaluation of coordination and cooperation between central and local authorities regarding refugee return, reconstruction and repossession of houses, implementation of the legislation providing for compensation for lost tenancy and/or occupation rights, and combating discrimination on the grounds of nationality or ethnic group in employment — these are fundamental for social and economic reintegration of returnees, which should be based on regional programmes and seen as an integral part of local development;

| 1.7 | notes the call from national minorities for Croatian electoral law to recognise ‘dual voting’ (political and ethnic) for national minorities in Croatia, as provided for by the Constitution and by the Constitutional Law on National Minorities; |
| --- | --- |

1.7

notes the call from national minorities for Croatian electoral law to recognise ‘dual voting’ (political and ethnic) for national minorities in Croatia, as provided for by the Constitution and by the Constitutional Law on National Minorities;

| 1.8 | stresses the need for ethnic pluralism in Croatia to be duly represented in public radio and television services. |
| --- | --- |

1.8

stresses the need for ethnic pluralism in Croatia to be duly represented in public radio and television services.

2.   Entry into force of the Stabilisation and Association Agreement (SAA)

| 2.1 | welcomes the entry into force, on 1 February 2005, of the Stabilisation and Association Agreement with the Republic of Croatia, which forms the legal framework for EU-Croatia relations throughout the pre-accession period, and hopes that the SAA will genuinely advance the integration process and, at the same time, strengthen relations between the parties, providing a broad partnership which involves Croatian regional and local authorities in its implementation; |
| --- | --- |

2.1

welcomes the entry into force, on 1 February 2005, of the Stabilisation and Association Agreement with the Republic of Croatia, which forms the legal framework for EU-Croatia relations throughout the pre-accession period, and hopes that the SAA will genuinely advance the integration process and, at the same time, strengthen relations between the parties, providing a broad partnership which involves Croatian regional and local authorities in its implementation;

| 2.2 | points out that the SAA provides, in particular, for a Stabilisation and Association Parliamentary Committee to be set up, seeking to develop political dialogue between the parties in order to establish ‘close links of solidarity and new forms of cooperation’ (1); |
| --- | --- |

2.2

points out that the SAA provides, in particular, for a Stabilisation and Association Parliamentary Committee to be set up, seeking to develop political dialogue between the parties in order to establish ‘close links of solidarity and new forms of cooperation’ (1);

| 2.3 | notes, in particular, the intention expressed in the SAA to promote political dialogue between the parties using ‘any other means which would make a useful contribution to consolidating, developing and stepping up this dialogue’ (2); |
| --- | --- |

2.3

notes, in particular, the intention expressed in the SAA to promote political dialogue between the parties using ‘any other means which would make a useful contribution to consolidating, developing and stepping up this dialogue’ (2);

| 2.4 | at the same time, regrets that, unlike in the case of previous candidate countries, neither the SAA, nor the Stabilisation and Association Council, nor the Council decision on its Rules of Procedure provide for the specific creation of an association committee of regional and local representatives; |
| --- | --- |

2.4

at the same time, regrets that, unlike in the case of previous candidate countries, neither the SAA, nor the Stabilisation and Association Council, nor the Council decision on its Rules of Procedure provide for the specific creation of an association committee of regional and local representatives;

| 2.5 | therefore calls for the Stabilisation and Association Council, in order to make a useful contribution to consolidating, developing and stepping up political dialogue (3), to endeavour to create a CoR-Croatia joint consultative committee, which, as such, would promote political dialogue, rapprochement between Croatia and the European Union, regional cooperation and the development of good neighbourly relations, the culture of subsidiarity and the development of local democracy. |
| --- | --- |

2.5

therefore calls for the Stabilisation and Association Council, in order to make a useful contribution to consolidating, developing and stepping up political dialogue (3), to endeavour to create a CoR-Croatia joint consultative committee, which, as such, would promote political dialogue, rapprochement between Croatia and the European Union, regional cooperation and the development of good neighbourly relations, the culture of subsidiarity and the development of local democracy.

3.   Opening of accession negotiations

| 3.1 | points out that the mutual, ultimate aim in the negotiations is Croatia's full membership of the European Union; |
| --- | --- |

3.1

points out that the mutual, ultimate aim in the negotiations is Croatia's full membership of the European Union;

| 3.2 | trusts that any transitional measures and safeguard clauses introduced will respect the EU's interests, particularly as regards competition and the functioning of the internal market; |
| --- | --- |

3.2

trusts that any transitional measures and safeguard clauses introduced will respect the EU's interests, particularly as regards competition and the functioning of the internal market;

| 3.3 | stresses Croatia's natural suitability for EU membership and the Croatian people's sincere desire to join the European Union; the opening of negotiations has prevented that desire being further dampened and political stabilisation in the region being held back; |
| --- | --- |

3.3

stresses Croatia's natural suitability for EU membership and the Croatian people's sincere desire to join the European Union; the opening of negotiations has prevented that desire being further dampened and political stabilisation in the region being held back;

| 3.4 | welcomes the opening of accession negotiations for Croatia to join the EU, on the basis of a political decision which took into due account compliance with the Copenhagen criteria and with the stabilisation and association conditions established by the Council in 1997 (cooperation with the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia and regional cooperation, which is deemed to be an integral part of the Stabilisation and Association Agreement signed with Croatia); moreover, stresses the need, during the negotiations, to monitor, further consolidate and, if appropriate, require tangible progress to be made in the field of the rights of minorities, refugee return policy, non-discrimination in the purchase of real estate by Community citizens, and judicial reform; |
| --- | --- |

3.4

welcomes the opening of accession negotiations for Croatia to join the EU, on the basis of a political decision which took into due account compliance with the Copenhagen criteria and with the stabilisation and association conditions established by the Council in 1997 (cooperation with the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia and regional cooperation, which is deemed to be an integral part of the Stabilisation and Association Agreement signed with Croatia); moreover, stresses the need, during the negotiations, to monitor, further consolidate and, if appropriate, require tangible progress to be made in the field of the rights of minorities, refugee return policy, non-discrimination in the purchase of real estate by Community citizens, and judicial reform;

| 3.5 | points out the need to confirm the full cooperation of the Croatian government with the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY) throughout the accession negotiations process; |
| --- | --- |

3.5

points out the need to confirm the full cooperation of the Croatian government with the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY) throughout the accession negotiations process;

| 3.6 | considers the opening of negotiations to be a historic opportunity for the EU and the Balkans and welcomes the creation of a Croatia Task Force, which will give its opinion on full cooperation with the ICTY; |
| --- | --- |

3.6

considers the opening of negotiations to be a historic opportunity for the EU and the Balkans and welcomes the creation of a Croatia Task Force, which will give its opinion on full cooperation with the ICTY;

| 3.7 | welcomes the Commission's adoption of the negotiating framework and the proposal to increase the number of negotiating chapters to 35, breaking large chapters down into smaller ones and thereby facilitating the negotiation process and making it quicker and more effective, particularly where agricultural policy is concerned; asks to be consulted on the Commission's annual Regular Reports on Croatia's progress towards accession; |
| --- | --- |

3.7

welcomes the Commission's adoption of the negotiating framework and the proposal to increase the number of negotiating chapters to 35, breaking large chapters down into smaller ones and thereby facilitating the negotiation process and making it quicker and more effective, particularly where agricultural policy is concerned; asks to be consulted on the Commission's annual Regular Reports on Croatia's progress towards accession;

| 3.8 | calls upon the Commission to involve it in the formal process of monitoring and analysing transposal of the acquis, so that it can assist the Commission in the task of assessing how prepared Croatia is in specific areas of the negotiations, to which it could bring the benefit of its added value, particularly as regards the desired cooperation with regional and local authorities on the cohesion acquis (chapter 22); asks to be regularly updated by the Commission and the Council on the benchmark for this negotiating chapter; |
| --- | --- |

3.8

calls upon the Commission to involve it in the formal process of monitoring and analysing transposal of the acquis, so that it can assist the Commission in the task of assessing how prepared Croatia is in specific areas of the negotiations, to which it could bring the benefit of its added value, particularly as regards the desired cooperation with regional and local authorities on the cohesion acquis (chapter 22); asks to be regularly updated by the Commission and the Council on the benchmark for this negotiating chapter;

| 3.9 | stresses that, in order to ensure the rapid progress of the forthcoming negotiations and the transposal of the Community acquis, the Croatian institutions must build up capacity to manage the administrative and legal systems; this requires an efficient, independent judicial system and a properly-functioning public administration which reflects European standards and concerns itself with the procedures for selecting and hiring staff in all public bodies; proposes, to this end, that cooperation and twinning schemes be provided for right from the pre-negotiation phase, including between Croatian regional and local administrations and those of the EU Member States; |
| --- | --- |

3.9

stresses that, in order to ensure the rapid progress of the forthcoming negotiations and the transposal of the Community acquis, the Croatian institutions must build up capacity to manage the administrative and legal systems; this requires an efficient, independent judicial system and a properly-functioning public administration which reflects European standards and concerns itself with the procedures for selecting and hiring staff in all public bodies; proposes, to this end, that cooperation and twinning schemes be provided for right from the pre-negotiation phase, including between Croatian regional and local administrations and those of the EU Member States;

| 3.10 | encourages the Croatian authorities to continue to implement anti-corruption measures, particularly the awareness-raising campaign of the Office for the Suppression of Corruption and Organised Crime (USKOK); |
| --- | --- |

3.10

encourages the Croatian authorities to continue to implement anti-corruption measures, particularly the awareness-raising campaign of the Office for the Suppression of Corruption and Organised Crime (USKOK);

| 3.11 | calls for regional cooperation to be pursued in the Balkans in accordance with the Thessaloniki Agenda agreed in June 2003, in a spirit of cross-border cooperation — a tried and tested practice among the EU Member States; calls, in particular, for swift resolution of the regional dispute over the sea border with Slovenia and the Piran Bay; |
| --- | --- |

3.11

calls for regional cooperation to be pursued in the Balkans in accordance with the Thessaloniki Agenda agreed in June 2003, in a spirit of cross-border cooperation — a tried and tested practice among the EU Member States; calls, in particular, for swift resolution of the regional dispute over the sea border with Slovenia and the Piran Bay;

| 3.12 | encourages the Croatian counties to pursue their policy of active cross-border cooperation, and of participation in and creation of Euroregions, thereby confirming their European orientation. |
| --- | --- |

3.12

encourages the Croatian counties to pursue their policy of active cross-border cooperation, and of participation in and creation of Euroregions, thereby confirming their European orientation.

4.   Community pre-accession assistance

| 4.1 | welcomes the decision to extend to Croatia the pre-accession financial instruments (Phare, ISPA and Sapard) as of 2005 and the new pre-accession financial instrument as of 2007, and points out that the cofinancing mechanism should always be used with due regard for sound financial management and cost-effectiveness; |
| --- | --- |

4.1

welcomes the decision to extend to Croatia the pre-accession financial instruments (Phare, ISPA and Sapard) as of 2005 and the new pre-accession financial instrument as of 2007, and points out that the cofinancing mechanism should always be used with due regard for sound financial management and cost-effectiveness;

| 4.2 | stresses the need for the Commission, as the body responsible for the practical coordination of support measures, to monitor the rate of absorption of Community funds and assess the impact of the programmes set up in Croatia thus far, particularly the twinning programmes (Border Police, Customs, Statistical Agency, and Asylum), and asks to be regularly updated in this regard; |
| --- | --- |

4.2

stresses the need for the Commission, as the body responsible for the practical coordination of support measures, to monitor the rate of absorption of Community funds and assess the impact of the programmes set up in Croatia thus far, particularly the twinning programmes (Border Police, Customs, Statistical Agency, and Asylum), and asks to be regularly updated in this regard;

| 4.3 | calls upon the Commission, under the CARDS regulation and upon the expiry of the Country Strategy Paper for 2002-2006, to provide an assessment of the effectiveness of administrative capacity-building measures; |
| --- | --- |

4.3

calls upon the Commission, under the CARDS regulation and upon the expiry of the Country Strategy Paper for 2002-2006, to provide an assessment of the effectiveness of administrative capacity-building measures;

| 4.4 | recommends that, in future, Croatian regional and local authorities play an active role in the pre-accession assistance coordination mechanisms put in place by the Commission, and that they be involved in planning strategies and defining priorities for regional development; to this end, stresses the urgent need for pre-accession funds to be used to train the administrative staff of local and regional authorities for this task; |
| --- | --- |

4.4

recommends that, in future, Croatian regional and local authorities play an active role in the pre-accession assistance coordination mechanisms put in place by the Commission, and that they be involved in planning strategies and defining priorities for regional development; to this end, stresses the urgent need for pre-accession funds to be used to train the administrative staff of local and regional authorities for this task;

| 4.5 | highlights the great disparities between the levels of development of the different NUTS II areas in Croatia, and stresses the need for priority to be given in the use of European funds to measures for reducing unemployment, particularly in the most disadvantaged areas; |
| --- | --- |

4.5

highlights the great disparities between the levels of development of the different NUTS II areas in Croatia, and stresses the need for priority to be given in the use of European funds to measures for reducing unemployment, particularly in the most disadvantaged areas;

| 4.6 | highlights the benefit of basing national regional development policy on a single legal instrument in order to avoid different approaches being taken in the various measures, as has been the case thus far, and the benefit of planning national regional development measures on a multi-annual basis; |
| --- | --- |

4.6

highlights the benefit of basing national regional development policy on a single legal instrument in order to avoid different approaches being taken in the various measures, as has been the case thus far, and the benefit of planning national regional development measures on a multi-annual basis;

| 4.7 | calls for Croatia to be able to participate, as of 2007, in the interregional and cross-border projects provided for under the new cohesion policy cooperation objective; |
| --- | --- |

4.7

calls for Croatia to be able to participate, as of 2007, in the interregional and cross-border projects provided for under the new cohesion policy cooperation objective;

| 4.8 | proposes that the case be considered for enabling representatives of cross-border regions of the candidate countries to take part, at least as observers, in future European groupings of cross-border cooperation (EGCC); |
| --- | --- |

4.8

proposes that the case be considered for enabling representatives of cross-border regions of the candidate countries to take part, at least as observers, in future European groupings of cross-border cooperation (EGCC);

| 4.9 | calls upon the EU budgetary authority to provide appropriate financial instruments, for use by Croatian regional and local authorities in twinning or cooperation schemes with EU regional and local authorities and the CoR, to inform the public about the benefits of EU accession. |
| --- | --- |

4.9

calls upon the EU budgetary authority to provide appropriate financial instruments, for use by Croatian regional and local authorities in twinning or cooperation schemes with EU regional and local authorities and the CoR, to inform the public about the benefits of EU accession.

5.   Implementation of the 2001 constitutional reform on devolution

| 5.1 | points out that implementation of the subsidiarity principle in Croatia is one of the keys to bringing the Croatian people closer to the European project; |
| --- | --- |

5.1

points out that implementation of the subsidiarity principle in Croatia is one of the keys to bringing the Croatian people closer to the European project;

| 5.2 | welcomes the amendments made to the Croatian Constitution in 2001, relating to subsidiarity and regional and local self-government; |
| --- | --- |

5.2

welcomes the amendments made to the Croatian Constitution in 2001, relating to subsidiarity and regional and local self-government;

| 5.3 | notes the Commission's criticism in its 2003 Stabilisation and Association report for Croatia, particularly with regard to the sluggishness of the devolution process, and stresses the overall pessimism expressed regarding the ability of counties, towns and municipalities to cope with their new responsibilities because they lack financial and management autonomy; |
| --- | --- |

5.3

notes the Commission's criticism in its 2003 Stabilisation and Association report for Croatia, particularly with regard to the sluggishness of the devolution process, and stresses the overall pessimism expressed regarding the ability of counties, towns and municipalities to cope with their new responsibilities because they lack financial and management autonomy;

| 5.4 | is concerned about the effective lack of own revenue and of the necessary autonomy in tax collection, which is fundamental for the consolidation of a genuine devolution process; |
| --- | --- |

5.4

is concerned about the effective lack of own revenue and of the necessary autonomy in tax collection, which is fundamental for the consolidation of a genuine devolution process;

| 5.5 | calls for the laws on regional and local self-government, particularly in the education and health sectors, to remain true to the spirit of the 2001 constitutional reform and not to dilute the devolution process which started then. |
| --- | --- |

5.5

calls for the laws on regional and local self-government, particularly in the education and health sectors, to remain true to the spirit of the 2001 constitutional reform and not to dilute the devolution process which started then.

Brussels, 13 October 2005.

The President

of the Committee of the Regions

Peter STRAUB

---

(1)  Articles 7 and 9, Title II – Political dialogue (SAA), Article 116 (SAA)

1

(2)  Article 8, Title II – Political dialogue (SAA)

2

(3)  Article 8(2), Title II – Political dialogue (SAA)

3

---

| 4.4.2006 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 81/46 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

4.4.2006

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 81/46

---

Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament on the Tenth anniversary of the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership: A work programme to meet the challenges of the next five years

(2006/C 81/12)

THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS,

HAVING REGARD TO the Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament on the Tenth anniversary of the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership: A work programme to meet the challenges of the next five years (COM(2005) 139 final);

HAVING REGARD TO the European Commission's decision of 3 June 2005 to consult it under the first paragraph of Article 265 of the Treaty establishing the European Community;

HAVING REGARD TO the decision of its Bureau of 12 April 2005 to instruct its Commission for External Relations to draw up an opinion on this subject;

HAVING REGARD TO its outlook opinion of 21 April 2004 on The Euro-Mediterranean Partnership and local and regional authorities: the need for coordination and a specific instrument for decentralised cooperation (CdR 327/2003) (1);

HAVING REGARD TO the Conclusions of the conference Towards a new Euro-Mediterranean Area which, on its initiative, brought together local and regional representatives in Livorno, Italy on 31 October 2003 (CdR 350/2003);

HAVING REGARD TO the Conclusions of the First Session of the Euro-Mediterranean Parliamentary Assembly held in Cairo in March 2005;

HAVING REGARD TO the Conclusions of the 7th Euro-Mediterranean Ministerial Conference, held in Luxembourg on 30 and 31 May 2005;

HAVING REGARD TO the report on Euro-Mediterranean Partnership, Ten years after Barcelona: Achievements and Perspectives, prepared by FEMISE;

HAVING REGARD TO the report on Barcelona Plus: Towards a Euro-Mediterranean Community of Democratic States, prepared by EuroMeSCo;

HAVING REGARD TO the declaration of Euro-Mediterranean mayors approved by the Eurocities' Euromed Commission in Byblos on 27 September 2003;

HAVING REGARD TO its Resolution on the 6th Euro-Mediterranean Ministerial Conference (CdR 357/2003) (2);

HAVING REGARD TO its draft opinion (CdR 142/2005 rev. 1), adopted by the Commission for External Relations on 30 June 2005 (rapporteur: Ms Terron i Cusi, Secretary-General of the Patronat Catalá pro Europa — Government delegate of the Generalidad de Cataluña in Brussels (ES/PES));

unanimously adopted the following opinion at its 61st plenary session, held on 12 and 13 October 2005 (meeting of 13 October):

1.   Views of the Committee of the Regions

1.1   General comments

The Committee of the Regions,

| 1.1.1 | welcomes the Commission's Communication and greatly appreciates its continued full commitment to the Euro-Mediterranean partnership; |
| --- | --- |

1.1.1

welcomes the Commission's Communication and greatly appreciates its continued full commitment to the Euro-Mediterranean partnership;

| 1.1.2 | agrees that the Barcelona Process has developed a strong partnership on a basis of joint ownership, dialogue and cooperation; |
| --- | --- |

1.1.2

agrees that the Barcelona Process has developed a strong partnership on a basis of joint ownership, dialogue and cooperation;

| 1.1.3 | stresses that the strong links that exist between the EU and its Mediterranean partners are historical and strategic in nature, but that the EuroMed partners are also interdependent due to trade, financial, tourism and migration flows; |
| --- | --- |

1.1.3

stresses that the strong links that exist between the EU and its Mediterranean partners are historical and strategic in nature, but that the EuroMed partners are also interdependent due to trade, financial, tourism and migration flows;

| 1.1.4 | supports the idea that the tenth anniversary of the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership provides an opportunity to further develop cooperation between the two sides of the Mediterranean and give a new impetus to the Barcelona Process; |
| --- | --- |

1.1.4

supports the idea that the tenth anniversary of the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership provides an opportunity to further develop cooperation between the two sides of the Mediterranean and give a new impetus to the Barcelona Process;

| 1.1.5 | notes that the record of the 10 years is in general positive and shows significant achievements, although advances in some important matters have followed a very slow path; |
| --- | --- |

1.1.5

notes that the record of the 10 years is in general positive and shows significant achievements, although advances in some important matters have followed a very slow path;

| 1.1.6 | acknowledges the ambitious and well prepared work programme proposed by the Commission; |
| --- | --- |

1.1.6

acknowledges the ambitious and well prepared work programme proposed by the Commission;

| 1.1.7 | stresses that the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership is a very important dossier for the CoR and that from the start of the Barcelona Process it has backed and encouraged cooperation between the two sides of the Mediterranean; |
| --- | --- |

1.1.7

stresses that the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership is a very important dossier for the CoR and that from the start of the Barcelona Process it has backed and encouraged cooperation between the two sides of the Mediterranean;

| 1.1.8 | notes that further efforts have to be made in order to involve sub-state actors in the Barcelona Process, since they are key players who should contribute to the deepening and enhancing of the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership; |
| --- | --- |

1.1.8

notes that further efforts have to be made in order to involve sub-state actors in the Barcelona Process, since they are key players who should contribute to the deepening and enhancing of the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership;

| 1.1.9 | points out that it has consistently called for greater involvement of local and regional authorities in the Barcelona Process; |
| --- | --- |

1.1.9

points out that it has consistently called for greater involvement of local and regional authorities in the Barcelona Process;

| 1.1.10 | welcomes the Conclusions of the 7th Euro-Mediterranean Ministerial Conference regarding the role of regional and local authorities, which need to be more closely involved in the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership in order to take stock of their common challenges, and exchange experiences and best practice; |
| --- | --- |

1.1.10

welcomes the Conclusions of the 7th Euro-Mediterranean Ministerial Conference regarding the role of regional and local authorities, which need to be more closely involved in the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership in order to take stock of their common challenges, and exchange experiences and best practice;

| 1.1.11 | expresses its willingness to strengthen cooperation with existing institutions involved in the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership. |
| --- | --- |

1.1.11

expresses its willingness to strengthen cooperation with existing institutions involved in the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership.

1.2   Stocktaking of the Barcelona Process

The Committee of the Regions,

| 1.2.1 | agrees that cooperation has improved in the political and security dimension, although the pace has been slower than hoped for. On the positive side, one major achievement has been the creation of the Euro-Mediterranean Parliamentary Assembly in 2004 together with the operation of some confidence-building measures; |
| --- | --- |

1.2.1

agrees that cooperation has improved in the political and security dimension, although the pace has been slower than hoped for. On the positive side, one major achievement has been the creation of the Euro-Mediterranean Parliamentary Assembly in 2004 together with the operation of some confidence-building measures;

| 1.2.2 | considers that the Barcelona Process has not resulted in a significant advance in democratisation and has not had any direct effect on the major unresolved conflicts in the region, and especially on the Palestinian-Israeli conflict; |
| --- | --- |

1.2.2

considers that the Barcelona Process has not resulted in a significant advance in democratisation and has not had any direct effect on the major unresolved conflicts in the region, and especially on the Palestinian-Israeli conflict;

| 1.2.3 | endorses the view that progress in the Partnership has concentrated on the economic and commercial objectives of the Barcelona Declaration aimed at creating a Euro-Mediterranean Free Trade Area by 2010. The network of bilateral Euromed Association Agreements is now almost complete and tariff barriers for industrial goods have disappeared or are progressively been dismantled; |
| --- | --- |

1.2.3

endorses the view that progress in the Partnership has concentrated on the economic and commercial objectives of the Barcelona Declaration aimed at creating a Euro-Mediterranean Free Trade Area by 2010. The network of bilateral Euromed Association Agreements is now almost complete and tariff barriers for industrial goods have disappeared or are progressively been dismantled;

| 1.2.4 | stresses that insufficient progress has been made in achieving reciprocal liberalisation of agricultural trade, that foreign and domestic private investment in the partner countries remains low, and that the prosperity gap has not been reduced; |
| --- | --- |

1.2.4

stresses that insufficient progress has been made in achieving reciprocal liberalisation of agricultural trade, that foreign and domestic private investment in the partner countries remains low, and that the prosperity gap has not been reduced;

| 1.2.5 | considers that the limited progress in South-South integration is due to a number of factors, and notably to the low level of institutional development in the Mediterranean partner countries; |
| --- | --- |

1.2.5

considers that the limited progress in South-South integration is due to a number of factors, and notably to the low level of institutional development in the Mediterranean partner countries;

| 1.2.6 | notes moreover that foreign direct investment has increased very little. South-South integration has not improved. The ‘Agadir’ agreement signed in 2004 between Morocco, Tunisia, Jordan and Egypt has not been ratified yet; |
| --- | --- |

1.2.6

notes moreover that foreign direct investment has increased very little. South-South integration has not improved. The ‘Agadir’ agreement signed in 2004 between Morocco, Tunisia, Jordan and Egypt has not been ratified yet;

| 1.2.7 | agrees that in the human, cultural and social dimension, education is a key element. Cooperation with civil society has been strengthened, and the creation in 2004 of the Anna Lindh Foundation for Dialogue between Cultures will further promote exchanges in those fields; |
| --- | --- |

1.2.7

agrees that in the human, cultural and social dimension, education is a key element. Cooperation with civil society has been strengthened, and the creation in 2004 of the Anna Lindh Foundation for Dialogue between Cultures will further promote exchanges in those fields;

| 1.2.8 | welcomes the substantial progress that has been made in the financial aspects of the partnership through the creation of FEMIP (the Euro-Mediterranean Investment Facility), and in speeding up project and programme implementation of MEDA II; |
| --- | --- |

1.2.8

welcomes the substantial progress that has been made in the financial aspects of the partnership through the creation of FEMIP (the Euro-Mediterranean Investment Facility), and in speeding up project and programme implementation of MEDA II;

| 1.2.9 | reiterates that the lack of coordination between MEDA II and INTERREG III has limited involvement by local and regional authorities in the southern Mediterranean countries in cooperation projects implemented under INTERREG III owing to the lack of European co-financing for the Mediterranean partners; reaffirms the need for crossborder cooperation, and suggests that the new ENPI financial instrument be used for this purpose; |
| --- | --- |

1.2.9

reiterates that the lack of coordination between MEDA II and INTERREG III has limited involvement by local and regional authorities in the southern Mediterranean countries in cooperation projects implemented under INTERREG III owing to the lack of European co-financing for the Mediterranean partners; reaffirms the need for crossborder cooperation, and suggests that the new ENPI financial instrument be used for this purpose;

| 1.2.10 | reiterates that, as a consequence, this has prevented the dissemination, in accordance with the Barcelona spirit, of experience and good practice relating to the partnership at local and regional level, despite the fact that many regional and local authorities in the EU have forged close links with their counterparts on the southern side of the Mediterranean. |
| --- | --- |

1.2.10

reiterates that, as a consequence, this has prevented the dissemination, in accordance with the Barcelona spirit, of experience and good practice relating to the partnership at local and regional level, despite the fact that many regional and local authorities in the EU have forged close links with their counterparts on the southern side of the Mediterranean.

1.3   Proposed initiatives and work programme

The Committee of the Regions,

| 1.3.1 | agrees that in the field of human rights and democracy, further efforts have to be made in promoting gender equality, fundamental and social rights, independent judiciaries and pluralism, and in striving towards common views of the challenge of democratisation; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.1

agrees that in the field of human rights and democracy, further efforts have to be made in promoting gender equality, fundamental and social rights, independent judiciaries and pluralism, and in striving towards common views of the challenge of democratisation;

| 1.3.2 | stresses that, to that end, the involvement and engagement of sub-state actors (regional and local), together with civil society and social partners, is crucial to reach achievements in this field; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.2

stresses that, to that end, the involvement and engagement of sub-state actors (regional and local), together with civil society and social partners, is crucial to reach achievements in this field;

| 1.3.3 | believes that decentralised cooperation helps local and regional authorities in the southern Mediterranean countries to achieve higher levels of good governance by promoting social participation, private involvement, and public leadership in the promotion of local economic development, thus reinforcing the institutional role of local and regional authorities vis-à-vis central governments and decentralised State authorities; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.3

believes that decentralised cooperation helps local and regional authorities in the southern Mediterranean countries to achieve higher levels of good governance by promoting social participation, private involvement, and public leadership in the promotion of local economic development, thus reinforcing the institutional role of local and regional authorities vis-à-vis central governments and decentralised State authorities;

| 1.3.4 | points out that the promotion of economic and social development from a regional integration approach is one of the major objectives of the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.4

points out that the promotion of economic and social development from a regional integration approach is one of the major objectives of the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership;

| 1.3.5 | stresses that the creation of a truly regional market can contribute to economic and social development, and, in any event, is a necessary but insufficient condition for development; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.5

stresses that the creation of a truly regional market can contribute to economic and social development, and, in any event, is a necessary but insufficient condition for development;

| 1.3.6 | believes that a truly regional market can only be achieved by strengthening integration among Mediterranean partners, deepening reform through a comprehensive approach, involving civil society and sub-state actors, and showing a strong political will; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.6

believes that a truly regional market can only be achieved by strengthening integration among Mediterranean partners, deepening reform through a comprehensive approach, involving civil society and sub-state actors, and showing a strong political will;

| 1.3.7 | thinks that association agreements are bilateral in nature and do not really provide the Mediterranean partners with instruments for regional integration, which is a necessary step towards the creation of a truly regional market; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.7

thinks that association agreements are bilateral in nature and do not really provide the Mediterranean partners with instruments for regional integration, which is a necessary step towards the creation of a truly regional market;

| 1.3.8 | considers that the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) can contribute, through action plans, to qualitative changes in EuroMed relations, but that this must not be done at the expense of the multilateral dimension of the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership. The Barcelona Process should remain the central instrument for partnership and dialogue for the region; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.8

considers that the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) can contribute, through action plans, to qualitative changes in EuroMed relations, but that this must not be done at the expense of the multilateral dimension of the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership. The Barcelona Process should remain the central instrument for partnership and dialogue for the region;

| 1.3.9 | points out that the creation of the European Neighbourhood Policy Instrument (ENIP), which replaces existing programmes such as MEDA, calls for a renewed interest in fostering cooperation with the Mediterranean partner countries in order to complete the set of proposed action plans with them, without diluting the regional component which was present in the MEDA programme or reducing (in absolute or relative terms) the financial aid which the European Union offers its Mediterranean partners; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.9

points out that the creation of the European Neighbourhood Policy Instrument (ENIP), which replaces existing programmes such as MEDA, calls for a renewed interest in fostering cooperation with the Mediterranean partner countries in order to complete the set of proposed action plans with them, without diluting the regional component which was present in the MEDA programme or reducing (in absolute or relative terms) the financial aid which the European Union offers its Mediterranean partners;

| 1.3.10 | stresses that the creation of FEMIP and its provisions for co-financing bring an urgent need to assess the practical possibilities for setting up a Euro-Mediterranean Development Bank; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.10

stresses that the creation of FEMIP and its provisions for co-financing bring an urgent need to assess the practical possibilities for setting up a Euro-Mediterranean Development Bank;

| 1.3.11 | endorses, therefore, the Commission proposal to submit an assessment in consultation with the EIB in 2007; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.11

endorses, therefore, the Commission proposal to submit an assessment in consultation with the EIB in 2007;

| 1.3.12 | welcomes the idea that the EU and the Mediterranean countries should agree to negotiate on the liberalisation and integration of trade in services and establishment, and regrets that the Commission has not yet carried out a study of the impact of establishing the free trade area; this should take into account the five challenges to be tackled by MEDA II: population, employment and migration, globalisation, dwindling of resources, and the environmental challenge; recalls that this document has been expected since the Malta conference (Barcelona II, 1997) and has been requested on several occasions by it and the European Parliament; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.12

welcomes the idea that the EU and the Mediterranean countries should agree to negotiate on the liberalisation and integration of trade in services and establishment, and regrets that the Commission has not yet carried out a study of the impact of establishing the free trade area; this should take into account the five challenges to be tackled by MEDA II: population, employment and migration, globalisation, dwindling of resources, and the environmental challenge; recalls that this document has been expected since the Malta conference (Barcelona II, 1997) and has been requested on several occasions by it and the European Parliament;

| 1.3.13 | emphasises the primary importance of the agricultural issue for Mediterranean partners; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.13

emphasises the primary importance of the agricultural issue for Mediterranean partners;

| 1.3.14 | considers, therefore, that there is an urgent need to refine the CAP (Common Agricultural Policy) and to open the Community's market to Mediterranean products, and to install an EAGGF-type instrument for these products in order to facilitate unavoidable adjustments; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.14

considers, therefore, that there is an urgent need to refine the CAP (Common Agricultural Policy) and to open the Community's market to Mediterranean products, and to install an EAGGF-type instrument for these products in order to facilitate unavoidable adjustments;

| 1.3.15 | endorses the importance of launching a regional cooperation programme for rural development; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.15

endorses the importance of launching a regional cooperation programme for rural development;

| 1.3.16 | welcomes the proposal to engage in a dialogue with partner countries and Member States in order to increase bilateral cooperation in the sector of education and vocational training, with a view to achieving three goals by 2015: eradication of illiteracy in the region; all students without distinction of gender to be enrolled in primary school; and the elimination of gender disparity at all levels of education; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.16

welcomes the proposal to engage in a dialogue with partner countries and Member States in order to increase bilateral cooperation in the sector of education and vocational training, with a view to achieving three goals by 2015: eradication of illiteracy in the region; all students without distinction of gender to be enrolled in primary school; and the elimination of gender disparity at all levels of education;

| 1.3.17 | welcomes the initiative to strengthen the existing mobility programmes by launching a substantial scheme of scholarships for university students co-funded by the Commission and host countries within the Euro-Mediterranean region; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.17

welcomes the initiative to strengthen the existing mobility programmes by launching a substantial scheme of scholarships for university students co-funded by the Commission and host countries within the Euro-Mediterranean region;

| 1.3.18 | welcomes the recognition of the role played by local authorities and civil society in promoting cooperation in the fields of justice, security and freedom, including migration and social integration; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.18

welcomes the recognition of the role played by local authorities and civil society in promoting cooperation in the fields of justice, security and freedom, including migration and social integration;

| 1.3.19 | considers that it is important to strengthen the role and presence of civil society and the social partners in the partnership; and welcomes the launch of the EuroMed non-governmental platform, which will provide an important link in the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.19

considers that it is important to strengthen the role and presence of civil society and the social partners in the partnership; and welcomes the launch of the EuroMed non-governmental platform, which will provide an important link in the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership;

| 1.3.20 | notes that the Mediterranean is a pre-eminent area for dialogue between cultures and civilisations; and calls for continued support for initiatives designed to create a common audiovisual area, to enhance understanding amongst societies, and to fight racism and all forms of xenophobia, including Islamophobia and anti-Semitism; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.20

notes that the Mediterranean is a pre-eminent area for dialogue between cultures and civilisations; and calls for continued support for initiatives designed to create a common audiovisual area, to enhance understanding amongst societies, and to fight racism and all forms of xenophobia, including Islamophobia and anti-Semitism;

| 1.3.21 | regrets that the Commission's Communication of 12 April 2005 contains no proposal to increase the role of sub-state actors in the partnership or to establish consultation mechanisms with the existing EuroMed institutions; nevertheless welcomes the important sub-state regional programmes, such as MEDACT and MEDPACT, for stepping up this action; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.21

regrets that the Commission's Communication of 12 April 2005 contains no proposal to increase the role of sub-state actors in the partnership or to establish consultation mechanisms with the existing EuroMed institutions; nevertheless welcomes the important sub-state regional programmes, such as MEDACT and MEDPACT, for stepping up this action;

| 1.3.22 | agrees that the visibility of the partnership needs to be improved in both the EU and partner countries, and that this requires a number of jointly agreed, clear and consistent messages to be addressed to ordinary men and women using the most effective means of communication and dissemination; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.22

agrees that the visibility of the partnership needs to be improved in both the EU and partner countries, and that this requires a number of jointly agreed, clear and consistent messages to be addressed to ordinary men and women using the most effective means of communication and dissemination;

| 1.3.23 | stresses that local and regional authorities, on both the northern and southern sides of the Mediterranean, provide a functional, political and territorial link between central government and civil society; |
| --- | --- |

1.3.23

stresses that local and regional authorities, on both the northern and southern sides of the Mediterranean, provide a functional, political and territorial link between central government and civil society;

| 1.3.24 | recalls, finally, that all the areas mentioned in the Commission's Communication as key areas for cooperation in the Barcelona Process are ones where local and regional authorities can offer the greatest expertise:






  — | fostering democratisation; |
| --- | --- | --- |

1.3.24

recalls, finally, that all the areas mentioned in the Commission's Communication as key areas for cooperation in the Barcelona Process are ones where local and regional authorities can offer the greatest expertise:

—

fostering democratisation;

| — | reforming institutions; |
| --- | --- |

—

reforming institutions;

| — | policies promoting SMEs; |
| --- | --- |

—

policies promoting SMEs;

| — | policies promoting investment; |
| --- | --- |

—

policies promoting investment;

| — | agriculture, fisheries and rural development; |
| --- | --- |

—

agriculture, fisheries and rural development;

| — | policies promoting employment; |
| --- | --- |

—

policies promoting employment;

| — | regional and spatial planning; |
| --- | --- |

—

regional and spatial planning;

| — | urban planning; |
| --- | --- |

—

urban planning;

| — | environment, resource management and prevention of natural disasters; |
| --- | --- |

—

environment, resource management and prevention of natural disasters;

| — | the sub-regional dimension of transport and energy; |
| --- | --- |

—

the sub-regional dimension of transport and energy;

| — | cultural and sporting initiatives; |
| --- | --- |

—

cultural and sporting initiatives;

| — | policies for safeguarding and fostering heritage; |
| --- | --- |

—

policies for safeguarding and fostering heritage;

| — | social proximity policies; |
| --- | --- |

—

social proximity policies;

| — | education and training; |
| --- | --- |

—

education and training;

| — | health; |
| --- | --- |

—

health;

| — | managing immigration flows, reception and integration policy; |
| --- | --- |

—

managing immigration flows, reception and integration policy;

| — | increasing the visibility of the partnership. |
| --- | --- |

—

increasing the visibility of the partnership.

2.   The Committee of the Regions' recommendations

The Committee of the Regions,

| 2.1 | underlines the potential role of local and regional authorities in strengthening the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership; |
| --- | --- |

2.1

underlines the potential role of local and regional authorities in strengthening the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership;

| 2.2 | emphasises, therefore, that the contribution of those authorities is vital in order to make progress in human rights and democracy, economic and social development, and cultural dialogue and understanding, which form the key guidelines underpinning the Barcelona Process and the main priorities of the work programme for the next five years; |
| --- | --- |

2.2

emphasises, therefore, that the contribution of those authorities is vital in order to make progress in human rights and democracy, economic and social development, and cultural dialogue and understanding, which form the key guidelines underpinning the Barcelona Process and the main priorities of the work programme for the next five years;

| 2.3 | reiterates its call for steps to be taken to increase the involvement of local and regional authorities in the Euro-Mediterranean Process, since they are prime movers in the establishment of an area of peace, stability and prosperity in the Mediterranean region; |
| --- | --- |

2.3

reiterates its call for steps to be taken to increase the involvement of local and regional authorities in the Euro-Mediterranean Process, since they are prime movers in the establishment of an area of peace, stability and prosperity in the Mediterranean region;

| 2.4 | stresses that regional cooperation at the political and, official level is good policy, and that civil society networks provide good partnerships. However, these need to be backed by other mechanisms, including sub-state partnerships; |
| --- | --- |

2.4

stresses that regional cooperation at the political and, official level is good policy, and that civil society networks provide good partnerships. However, these need to be backed by other mechanisms, including sub-state partnerships;

| 2.5 | calls for the creation of a new forum in the Euro-Mediterranean institutional framework, with the task of promoting territorial and decentralised cooperation, encouraging the partnership, developing programmes that include schemes to be undertaken all over the Mediterranean region, and analysing the functioning of association agreements with Mediterranean partners. The forum could include local and regional authorities from both sides of the Mediterranean; |
| --- | --- |

2.5

calls for the creation of a new forum in the Euro-Mediterranean institutional framework, with the task of promoting territorial and decentralised cooperation, encouraging the partnership, developing programmes that include schemes to be undertaken all over the Mediterranean region, and analysing the functioning of association agreements with Mediterranean partners. The forum could include local and regional authorities from both sides of the Mediterranean;

| 2.6 | suggests that the Commission note the call made to local authorities at the first session of the Euro-Mediterranean Parliamentary Assembly, asking them to contribute more to building networks of contacts for promoting dialogue and mutual understanding and exchanging experience and best practice; |
| --- | --- |

2.6

suggests that the Commission note the call made to local authorities at the first session of the Euro-Mediterranean Parliamentary Assembly, asking them to contribute more to building networks of contacts for promoting dialogue and mutual understanding and exchanging experience and best practice;

| 2.7 | stresses that involvement of social players and civil society is central to the success of the partnership and to the achievement of its goals, but that this cannot be accomplished without involving regional and local institutions and authorities; |
| --- | --- |

2.7

stresses that involvement of social players and civil society is central to the success of the partnership and to the achievement of its goals, but that this cannot be accomplished without involving regional and local institutions and authorities;

| 2.8 | believes that there is a need to transcend the traditional limits of centralised cooperation and that local and regional authorities are the most appropriate level for decentralised cooperation; |
| --- | --- |

2.8

believes that there is a need to transcend the traditional limits of centralised cooperation and that local and regional authorities are the most appropriate level for decentralised cooperation;

| 2.9 | notes in this context that there is scope for action by local and regional authorities that complements and goes beyond the traditional limits of cooperation at central-government level; |
| --- | --- |

2.9

notes in this context that there is scope for action by local and regional authorities that complements and goes beyond the traditional limits of cooperation at central-government level;

| 2.10 | believes that the creation of instruments to promote crossborder and transnational cooperation could promote territorial cooperation in the regions of the Mediterranean basin; |
| --- | --- |

2.10

believes that the creation of instruments to promote crossborder and transnational cooperation could promote territorial cooperation in the regions of the Mediterranean basin;

| 2.11 | points out that the decentralised cooperation practices developed in recent years have highlighted the responsibility that local authorities bear in their role as a catalyst for these new cooperation processes, as was also acknowledged by the Commission in its note on decentralised cooperation in January 2000; |
| --- | --- |

2.11

points out that the decentralised cooperation practices developed in recent years have highlighted the responsibility that local authorities bear in their role as a catalyst for these new cooperation processes, as was also acknowledged by the Commission in its note on decentralised cooperation in January 2000;

| 2.12 | notes that while the crucial role played by local and regional authorities has been acknowledged by many Member States, it should be harmonised and better clarified at EU level; it should also be stated explicitly that their partners in the southern Mediterranean countries should represent decentralised bodies, directly elected by citizens in the regions concerned, and not — or not only — officials who are local representatives of central government; |
| --- | --- |

2.12

notes that while the crucial role played by local and regional authorities has been acknowledged by many Member States, it should be harmonised and better clarified at EU level; it should also be stated explicitly that their partners in the southern Mediterranean countries should represent decentralised bodies, directly elected by citizens in the regions concerned, and not — or not only — officials who are local representatives of central government;

| 2.13 | recommends that the Commission acquire a more in-depth knowledge of the functions and powers of sub-national institutions in the southern Mediterranean countries by carrying out a comparative analysis of local and regional authorities and the reforms under way in the region. |
| --- | --- |

2.13

recommends that the Commission acquire a more in-depth knowledge of the functions and powers of sub-national institutions in the southern Mediterranean countries by carrying out a comparative analysis of local and regional authorities and the reforms under way in the region.

Brussels, 13 October 2005.

The President

of the Committee of the Regions

Peter STRAUB

---

(1)  OJ C 121 of 30.4.2004, p.18.

1

(2)  OJ C 73 of 23.3.2004, p. 77.

2

---