# Official Journal C 25/2008

| | ISSN 1725-2423 |
| --- | --- |
| Official Journal
  of the European Union | C 25 |
| | |
| English edition | Information and Notices | Volume 5130 January 2008 |

ISSN 1725-2423

Official Journal

of the European Union

C 25

English edition

Information and Notices

Volume 5130 January 2008

---

| Notice No | Contents | page |
| --- | --- | --- |
| | II   Information |
| | JOINT DECLARATIONS |
| | Council |
| 2008/C 025/01 | Joint Statement by the Council and the Representatives of the Governments of the Member States meeting within the Council, the European Parliament and the European Commission | 1 |

Notice No

Contents

page

II   Information

JOINT DECLARATIONS

Council

2008/C 025/01

Joint Statement by the Council and the Representatives of the Governments of the Member States meeting within the Council, the European Parliament and the European Commission

1

| | IV   Notices |
| --- | --- |
| | NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS AND BODIES |
| | European Parliament |
| 2008/C 025/02 | Conference of Community and European Affairs Committees of Parliaments of the European Union (COSAC) — Contribution adopted by the XXXVIII COSAC — Estoril, 14-16 October 2007 | 13 |
| | Commission |
| 2008/C 025/03 | Euro exchange rates | 16 |

IV   Notices

NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS AND BODIES

European Parliament

2008/C 025/02

Conference of Community and European Affairs Committees of Parliaments of the European Union (COSAC) — Contribution adopted by the XXXVIII COSAC — Estoril, 14-16 October 2007

13

Commission

2008/C 025/03

Euro exchange rates

16

| | V   Announcements |
| --- | --- |
| | ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES |
| | Commission |
| 2008/C 025/04 | Operation of scheduled air services — Invitation to tender issued by Ireland under Article 4(1)(d) of Council Regulation (EEC) No 2408/92 in respect of the operation of scheduled air services within Ireland (
  1
  ) | 17 |
| | European Personnel Selection Office (EPSO) |
| 2008/C 025/05 | Notice of open competitions EPSO/AD/118-123/08 | 20 |
| | European Economic and Social Committee |
| 2008/C 025/06 | Notice of a corrigendum of the vacancy notice for the post of secretary-general (Grade AD16 — Special career bracket) — (Article 2(a) and Article 8 of the Conditions of Employment of other Servants of the European Communities) | 21 |

V   Announcements

ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES

Commission

2008/C 025/04

Operation of scheduled air services — Invitation to tender issued by Ireland under Article 4(1)(d) of Council Regulation (EEC) No 2408/92 in respect of the operation of scheduled air services within Ireland (
  1
  )

1

17

European Personnel Selection Office (EPSO)

2008/C 025/05

Notice of open competitions EPSO/AD/118-123/08

20

European Economic and Social Committee

2008/C 025/06

Notice of a corrigendum of the vacancy notice for the post of secretary-general (Grade AD16 — Special career bracket) — (Article 2(a) and Article 8 of the Conditions of Employment of other Servants of the European Communities)

21

| | |
| --- | --- |
| | (1)   Text with EEA relevance |

---

(1)   Text with EEA relevance

1

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

EN

---

II Information

JOINT DECLARATIONS

Council

| 30.1.2008 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 25/1 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

30.1.2008

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 25/1

---

Joint Statement by the Council and the Representatives of the Governments of the Member States meeting within the Council, the European Parliament and the European Commission

(2008/C 25/01)

THE EUROPEAN CONSENSUS ON HUMANITARIAN AID

The humanitarian challenge

| 1. | Humanitarian aid is a fundamental expression of the universal value of solidarity between people and a moral imperative. |
| --- | --- |

1.

Humanitarian aid is a fundamental expression of the universal value of solidarity between people and a moral imperative.

| 2. | Humanitarian crises include both man-made and natural disasters. Their impact is increasingly severe, linked to a number of factors, such as the changing nature of conflict, climate change, increasing competition for access to energy and natural resources, extreme poverty, poor governance and situations of fragility. The main victims are civilians, often the poorest and most vulnerable among them, mainly living in developing countries. Humanitarian crises have led to large numbers of displaced people, both refugees and internally displaced persons. |
| --- | --- |

2.

Humanitarian crises include both man-made and natural disasters. Their impact is increasingly severe, linked to a number of factors, such as the changing nature of conflict, climate change, increasing competition for access to energy and natural resources, extreme poverty, poor governance and situations of fragility. The main victims are civilians, often the poorest and most vulnerable among them, mainly living in developing countries. Humanitarian crises have led to large numbers of displaced people, both refugees and internally displaced persons.

| 3. | Humanitarian actors today face a number of major challenges. There has been an increasing tendency for International Law, including International Humanitarian Law, Human Rights Law and Refugee Law, to be ignored or blatantly violated. The ‘humanitarian space’ that is needed to ensure access to vulnerable populations and the safety and security of humanitarian workers must be preserved as essential preconditions for the delivery of humanitarian aid, and for the European Union (EU) and its partners in the humanitarian field to be able to get assistance including protection to crisis-hit people, based on respect for the principles of neutrality, impartiality, humanity and independence of humanitarian action, enshrined in International Law, in particular International Humanitarian Law. |
| --- | --- |

3.

Humanitarian actors today face a number of major challenges. There has been an increasing tendency for International Law, including International Humanitarian Law, Human Rights Law and Refugee Law, to be ignored or blatantly violated. The ‘humanitarian space’ that is needed to ensure access to vulnerable populations and the safety and security of humanitarian workers must be preserved as essential preconditions for the delivery of humanitarian aid, and for the European Union (EU) and its partners in the humanitarian field to be able to get assistance including protection to crisis-hit people, based on respect for the principles of neutrality, impartiality, humanity and independence of humanitarian action, enshrined in International Law, in particular International Humanitarian Law.

| 4. | Humanitarian aid provided by the EU is a shared competence between the Member States and the European Community (1). It builds upon a long tradition and reflects the diversity of its actors. EU humanitarian action is framed in an overall international approach that brings together the United Nations, the Red Cross/Crescent movement, humanitarian NGOs and others, in support of local responses to humanitarian crises through a partnership approach with the affected communities. National authorities in countries faced with crisis retain the primary responsibility for protecting populations confronting disaster. |
| --- | --- |

4.

Humanitarian aid provided by the EU is a shared competence between the Member States and the European Community (1). It builds upon a long tradition and reflects the diversity of its actors. EU humanitarian action is framed in an overall international approach that brings together the United Nations, the Red Cross/Crescent movement, humanitarian NGOs and others, in support of local responses to humanitarian crises through a partnership approach with the affected communities. National authorities in countries faced with crisis retain the primary responsibility for protecting populations confronting disaster.

| 5. | Collectively the EU provides the largest share of current official international humanitarian aid, comprised of Community and EU Member State bilateral contributions. As such the EU has both the experience and the duty to ensure that its overall contribution to the humanitarian response is effective and appropriate, underpins the international humanitarian effort to deliver aid to people in need, and addresses adequately the challenges facing humanitarian actors today. |
| --- | --- |

5.

Collectively the EU provides the largest share of current official international humanitarian aid, comprised of Community and EU Member State bilateral contributions. As such the EU has both the experience and the duty to ensure that its overall contribution to the humanitarian response is effective and appropriate, underpins the international humanitarian effort to deliver aid to people in need, and addresses adequately the challenges facing humanitarian actors today.

| 6. | The European Consensus on Humanitarian Aid provides a common vision that guides the action of the EU, both at its Member States and Community levels, in humanitarian aid in third countries. This common vision is the subject of the first part of the Statement; the second part sets out the European Community humanitarian aid approach to guide implementation of this vision at the Community level and further specifies priorities for concrete action at the Community level. |
| --- | --- |

6.

The European Consensus on Humanitarian Aid provides a common vision that guides the action of the EU, both at its Member States and Community levels, in humanitarian aid in third countries. This common vision is the subject of the first part of the Statement; the second part sets out the European Community humanitarian aid approach to guide implementation of this vision at the Community level and further specifies priorities for concrete action at the Community level.

| 7. | The European Consensus on Humanitarian Aid is jointly agreed by the Council and the representatives of the governments of the Member States meeting within the Council, the European Parliament and the European Commission. In doing so, we seek to confirm our commitment to the principles underpinning EU humanitarian aid, to enhance existing commitments for good donor practice across the EU, in partnership with other humanitarian stakeholders, and to put in place the foundations for working more closely together to ensure the most effective implementation of EU humanitarian aid in the years to come. |
| --- | --- |

7.

The European Consensus on Humanitarian Aid is jointly agreed by the Council and the representatives of the governments of the Member States meeting within the Council, the European Parliament and the European Commission. In doing so, we seek to confirm our commitment to the principles underpinning EU humanitarian aid, to enhance existing commitments for good donor practice across the EU, in partnership with other humanitarian stakeholders, and to put in place the foundations for working more closely together to ensure the most effective implementation of EU humanitarian aid in the years to come.

PART ONE — THE EU VISION OF HUMANITARIAN AID

1.   Common Objective

| 8. | The objective of EU humanitarian aid is to provide a needs-based emergency response aimed at preserving life, preventing and alleviating human suffering and maintaining human dignity wherever the need arises if governments and local actors are overwhelmed, unable or unwilling to act. EU humanitarian aid encompasses assistance, relief and protection operations to save and preserve life in humanitarian crises or their immediate aftermath, but also actions aimed at facilitating or obtaining access to people in need and the free flow of assistance. EU humanitarian assistance is provided in response to man-made crises (including complex emergencies) and to natural disasters as needed. |
| --- | --- |

8.

The objective of EU humanitarian aid is to provide a needs-based emergency response aimed at preserving life, preventing and alleviating human suffering and maintaining human dignity wherever the need arises if governments and local actors are overwhelmed, unable or unwilling to act. EU humanitarian aid encompasses assistance, relief and protection operations to save and preserve life in humanitarian crises or their immediate aftermath, but also actions aimed at facilitating or obtaining access to people in need and the free flow of assistance. EU humanitarian assistance is provided in response to man-made crises (including complex emergencies) and to natural disasters as needed.

| 9. | Local response to crisis and disaster risk reduction, including disaster preparedness and recovery, are essential to saving lives and enabling communities to increase their resilience to emergencies. Capacity building activities to prevent and mitigate the impact of disasters and to enhance humanitarian response are also part of EU humanitarian aid. |
| --- | --- |

9.

Local response to crisis and disaster risk reduction, including disaster preparedness and recovery, are essential to saving lives and enabling communities to increase their resilience to emergencies. Capacity building activities to prevent and mitigate the impact of disasters and to enhance humanitarian response are also part of EU humanitarian aid.

2.   Common Principles and Good Practice

2.1.   Fundamental humanitarian principles

| 10. | The EU is firmly committed to upholding and promoting the fundamental humanitarian principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality and independence. This principled approach is essential to the acceptance and ability of the EU, and humanitarian actors in general, to operate on the ground in often complex political and security contexts. The perception of the EU and its commitment to these fundamental principles in humanitarian action are linked to behaviour and engagement on the ground of all EU actors. |
| --- | --- |

10.

The EU is firmly committed to upholding and promoting the fundamental humanitarian principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality and independence. This principled approach is essential to the acceptance and ability of the EU, and humanitarian actors in general, to operate on the ground in often complex political and security contexts. The perception of the EU and its commitment to these fundamental principles in humanitarian action are linked to behaviour and engagement on the ground of all EU actors.

| 11. | The principle of humanity means that human suffering must be addressed wherever it is found, with particular attention to the most vulnerable in the population. The dignity of all victims must be respected and protected. |
| --- | --- |

11.

The principle of humanity means that human suffering must be addressed wherever it is found, with particular attention to the most vulnerable in the population. The dignity of all victims must be respected and protected.

| 12. | Neutrality means that humanitarian aid must not favour any side in an armed conflict or other dispute. |
| --- | --- |

12.

Neutrality means that humanitarian aid must not favour any side in an armed conflict or other dispute.

| 13. | Impartiality denotes that humanitarian aid must be provided solely on the basis of need, without discrimination between or within affected populations. |
| --- | --- |

13.

Impartiality denotes that humanitarian aid must be provided solely on the basis of need, without discrimination between or within affected populations.

| 14. | Respect for independence means the autonomy of humanitarian objectives from political, economic, military or other objectives, and serves to ensure that the sole purpose of humanitarian aid remains to relieve and prevent the suffering of victims of humanitarian crises. |
| --- | --- |

14.

Respect for independence means the autonomy of humanitarian objectives from political, economic, military or other objectives, and serves to ensure that the sole purpose of humanitarian aid remains to relieve and prevent the suffering of victims of humanitarian crises.

| 15. | EU humanitarian aid is not a crisis management tool. |
| --- | --- |

15.

EU humanitarian aid is not a crisis management tool.

2.2.   International Law

| 16. | The EU will advocate strongly and consistently for the respect of International Law, including International Humanitarian Law (2), Human Rights Law and Refugee Law. In 2005, the EU adopted Guidelines on promoting compliance with international humanitarian law. The EU is committed to operationalising these Guidelines in its external relations (3). |
| --- | --- |

16.

The EU will advocate strongly and consistently for the respect of International Law, including International Humanitarian Law (2), Human Rights Law and Refugee Law. In 2005, the EU adopted Guidelines on promoting compliance with international humanitarian law. The EU is committed to operationalising these Guidelines in its external relations (3).

| 17. | The EU recalls the commitment to the responsibility to protect, in accordance with UN General Assembly Resolution 60/1 of 24 October 2005 (2005 World Summit Outcome). Each individual state has the responsibility to protect its populations from genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing and crimes against humanity. The international community, through the United Nations, also has the responsibility to protect populations from those crimes. Where national authorities are manifestly failing to meet the responsibility to protect, the international community has confirmed that it is prepared to take collective action through the UN Security Council. |
| --- | --- |

17.

The EU recalls the commitment to the responsibility to protect, in accordance with UN General Assembly Resolution 60/1 of 24 October 2005 (2005 World Summit Outcome). Each individual state has the responsibility to protect its populations from genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing and crimes against humanity. The international community, through the United Nations, also has the responsibility to protect populations from those crimes. Where national authorities are manifestly failing to meet the responsibility to protect, the international community has confirmed that it is prepared to take collective action through the UN Security Council.

2.3.   Good Humanitarian Donorship

| 18. | Whilst acknowledging a diversity of capacity, scale and of specific modalities applicable to humanitarian aid within the EU, in agreeing this European Consensus, all EU donors commit themselves to the Good Humanitarian Donorship (GHD) Principles and undertake to work together, and with others, to seek to apply donor best practice (4). This includes the allocation of humanitarian funding in proportion to needs and on the basis of needs assessments. |
| --- | --- |

18.

Whilst acknowledging a diversity of capacity, scale and of specific modalities applicable to humanitarian aid within the EU, in agreeing this European Consensus, all EU donors commit themselves to the Good Humanitarian Donorship (GHD) Principles and undertake to work together, and with others, to seek to apply donor best practice (4). This includes the allocation of humanitarian funding in proportion to needs and on the basis of needs assessments.

| 19. | As the EU, we undertake to promote a substantive debate about elements of best donor practice to ensure that good donorship translates into better assistance for people facing humanitarian crisis. |
| --- | --- |

19.

As the EU, we undertake to promote a substantive debate about elements of best donor practice to ensure that good donorship translates into better assistance for people facing humanitarian crisis.

| 20. | The EU recognises that the global level of humanitarian need requires a consolidated international approach in partnership with others, including encouragement of aid financing from new and emerging official donors and private benefactors respecting the humanitarian principles. |
| --- | --- |

20.

The EU recognises that the global level of humanitarian need requires a consolidated international approach in partnership with others, including encouragement of aid financing from new and emerging official donors and private benefactors respecting the humanitarian principles.

| 21. | Partnership is at the core of implementation of humanitarian aid and the EU therefore would welcome a broader international partnership approach, which brings together donors, implementing partners and other stakeholders, to ensure effective humanitarian action, building on the existing body of standards and best practice. |
| --- | --- |

21.

Partnership is at the core of implementation of humanitarian aid and the EU therefore would welcome a broader international partnership approach, which brings together donors, implementing partners and other stakeholders, to ensure effective humanitarian action, building on the existing body of standards and best practice.

2.4.   Relationship to other policies

| 22. | The principles that apply to humanitarian aid are specific and distinct from other forms of aid. EU humanitarian aid, including early recovery, should take long-term development objectives into account where possible, and is closely linked to development cooperation whose principles and practices are outlined in ‘the European Consensus on Development’ (5). EU humanitarian aid is delivered in situations where other instruments related to crisis management, civil protection and consular assistance may also come into play. Hence, the EU is committed to ensure coherence and complementarity in its response to crises, making the most effective use of the various instruments mobilised. Therefore the EU should enhance efforts to raise awareness of and take into account humanitarian principles and considerations more systematically in its work throughout its Institutions. |
| --- | --- |

22.

The principles that apply to humanitarian aid are specific and distinct from other forms of aid. EU humanitarian aid, including early recovery, should take long-term development objectives into account where possible, and is closely linked to development cooperation whose principles and practices are outlined in ‘the European Consensus on Development’ (5). EU humanitarian aid is delivered in situations where other instruments related to crisis management, civil protection and consular assistance may also come into play. Hence, the EU is committed to ensure coherence and complementarity in its response to crises, making the most effective use of the various instruments mobilised. Therefore the EU should enhance efforts to raise awareness of and take into account humanitarian principles and considerations more systematically in its work throughout its Institutions.

2.5.   Gender dimension in Humanitarian Aid

| 23. | Recognising the different needs, capacities and contributions of women, girls, boys and men, the EU highlights the importance of integrating gender considerations into humanitarian aid. |
| --- | --- |

23.

Recognising the different needs, capacities and contributions of women, girls, boys and men, the EU highlights the importance of integrating gender considerations into humanitarian aid.

| 24. | The EU recognises that the active participation of women in humanitarian aid is essential, and commits to promoting that involvement. |
| --- | --- |

24.

The EU recognises that the active participation of women in humanitarian aid is essential, and commits to promoting that involvement.

3.   Common Framework to Deliver EU Humanitarian Aid

3.1.   Coordination, Coherence and Complementarity

| 25. | The EU strongly supports the central and overall coordinating role of the United Nations, particularly the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), in promoting a coherent international response to humanitarian crises. This role is considerably strengthened when OCHA has an active field presence (and a Humanitarian Coordinator is designated and deployed). Stronger EU co-ordination would enhance the overall international humanitarian response, including concerted efforts to improve the humanitarian system, and would also reinforce the EU ambition of working closely with other humanitarian actors. |
| --- | --- |

25.

The EU strongly supports the central and overall coordinating role of the United Nations, particularly the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), in promoting a coherent international response to humanitarian crises. This role is considerably strengthened when OCHA has an active field presence (and a Humanitarian Coordinator is designated and deployed). Stronger EU co-ordination would enhance the overall international humanitarian response, including concerted efforts to improve the humanitarian system, and would also reinforce the EU ambition of working closely with other humanitarian actors.

| 26. | Therefore, without prejudice to their respective competences and traditions, EU humanitarian donors will work together through strengthened EU coordination and promotion of best practice with a view to promoting the EU common vision in a flexible and complementary way that reinforces international efforts. This means that the EU will seek to act in a concerted way to protect the ‘humanitarian space’ and to strengthen the overall humanitarian response, including identifying gaps and supporting well-organised delivery of aid where it is most needed. |
| --- | --- |

26.

Therefore, without prejudice to their respective competences and traditions, EU humanitarian donors will work together through strengthened EU coordination and promotion of best practice with a view to promoting the EU common vision in a flexible and complementary way that reinforces international efforts. This means that the EU will seek to act in a concerted way to protect the ‘humanitarian space’ and to strengthen the overall humanitarian response, including identifying gaps and supporting well-organised delivery of aid where it is most needed.

| 27. | EU humanitarian donors will endeavour to ensure good donor practice through sharing understanding on need and appropriate responses and through concerted efforts to avoid overlap and to ensure that humanitarian needs are adequately assessed and met. There should be a particular focus on coherence of response strategies to a given crisis, and on working in partnership in the field. |
| --- | --- |

27.

EU humanitarian donors will endeavour to ensure good donor practice through sharing understanding on need and appropriate responses and through concerted efforts to avoid overlap and to ensure that humanitarian needs are adequately assessed and met. There should be a particular focus on coherence of response strategies to a given crisis, and on working in partnership in the field.

| 28. | The EU will focus on:






  — | real-time sharing of information on situation assessments and response intentions for specific crises (at headquarters level and in the field), |
| --- | --- | --- |

28.

The EU will focus on:

—

real-time sharing of information on situation assessments and response intentions for specific crises (at headquarters level and in the field),

| — | enhancing policy-level exchange on aid and intervention strategies, including in an appropriate forum for regular policy debate in the Council, |
| --- | --- |

—

enhancing policy-level exchange on aid and intervention strategies, including in an appropriate forum for regular policy debate in the Council,

| — | exchanges to develop best practice and share sectoral expertise, |
| --- | --- |

—

exchanges to develop best practice and share sectoral expertise,

| — | ensuring that lessons are learnt systematically from response to crises. |
| --- | --- |

—

ensuring that lessons are learnt systematically from response to crises.

| 29. | The EU will contribute to shaping the international humanitarian agenda, and work together in international fora and on advocacy efforts for humanitarian issues. |
| --- | --- |

29.

The EU will contribute to shaping the international humanitarian agenda, and work together in international fora and on advocacy efforts for humanitarian issues.

| 30. | Without prejudice to the humanitarian principles of neutrality and independence, the EU commits to ensuring policy coherence, complementarity and effectiveness by using its influence and the full range of tools at its disposal to address the root causes of humanitarian crises. In particular, humanitarian aid and development cooperation, as well as the various instruments available to implement stability measures, will be used in a coherent and complementary fashion especially in transitional contexts and situations of fragility, in order to use the full potential of short- and long-term aid and cooperation. |
| --- | --- |

30.

Without prejudice to the humanitarian principles of neutrality and independence, the EU commits to ensuring policy coherence, complementarity and effectiveness by using its influence and the full range of tools at its disposal to address the root causes of humanitarian crises. In particular, humanitarian aid and development cooperation, as well as the various instruments available to implement stability measures, will be used in a coherent and complementary fashion especially in transitional contexts and situations of fragility, in order to use the full potential of short- and long-term aid and cooperation.

3.2.   Providing adequate and effective aid

| 31. | Humanitarian aid should be transparently allocated on the basis of identified needs and the degree of vulnerability. This means that aid recipients should be identified based on objectively verifiable criteria and that aid should be delivered in such a way that defined priority needs are matched by adequate funds. |
| --- | --- |

31.

Humanitarian aid should be transparently allocated on the basis of identified needs and the degree of vulnerability. This means that aid recipients should be identified based on objectively verifiable criteria and that aid should be delivered in such a way that defined priority needs are matched by adequate funds.

| 32. | In order to ensure an adequate, effective, equitable and flexible allocation of aid, a rigorous approach to needs assessments must be applied both at global and local levels. Taking into account existing initiatives, the EU will seek to promote a common understanding of needs-assessments at the EU level in order to improve current practices and their application. The EU reconfirms the importance of working closely with international partners on needs-assessment. An analysis of global needs requires agreement on a suitable methodology and programming principles. Informed assessments of local needs, particularly in the first stages of a sudden-onset crisis, require appropriate field presence and experience, reliable information and clear priority setting. The United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination (UNDAC) teams have a core role in field assessment when deployed. |
| --- | --- |

32.

In order to ensure an adequate, effective, equitable and flexible allocation of aid, a rigorous approach to needs assessments must be applied both at global and local levels. Taking into account existing initiatives, the EU will seek to promote a common understanding of needs-assessments at the EU level in order to improve current practices and their application. The EU reconfirms the importance of working closely with international partners on needs-assessment. An analysis of global needs requires agreement on a suitable methodology and programming principles. Informed assessments of local needs, particularly in the first stages of a sudden-onset crisis, require appropriate field presence and experience, reliable information and clear priority setting. The United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination (UNDAC) teams have a core role in field assessment when deployed.

| 33. | The EU affirms its commitment to ensuring a balance of response between different crises based on need, including aid for protracted crises. Forgotten crises or crises where intervention is particularly difficult and where the overall international humanitarian response is inadequate, warrant special attention from the EU. Neglected needs in response to specific crises also deserve particular consideration. |
| --- | --- |

33.

The EU affirms its commitment to ensuring a balance of response between different crises based on need, including aid for protracted crises. Forgotten crises or crises where intervention is particularly difficult and where the overall international humanitarian response is inadequate, warrant special attention from the EU. Neglected needs in response to specific crises also deserve particular consideration.

| 34. | In the humanitarian context, emergency food aid is an integral and important part of a short term humanitarian response strategy to meet the needs of vulnerable populations. Consequently emergency food aid has to be based on rigorous and transparent needs assessment, which provides an analysis of the most adequate and appropriate mix of food aid and non-food responses, and takes into account the risk of unduly disrupting markets. Linking food aid with other forms of livelihood support helps to enhance the coping mechanisms of the affected populations. |
| --- | --- |

34.

In the humanitarian context, emergency food aid is an integral and important part of a short term humanitarian response strategy to meet the needs of vulnerable populations. Consequently emergency food aid has to be based on rigorous and transparent needs assessment, which provides an analysis of the most adequate and appropriate mix of food aid and non-food responses, and takes into account the risk of unduly disrupting markets. Linking food aid with other forms of livelihood support helps to enhance the coping mechanisms of the affected populations.

| 35. | Whenever possible, without unduly disrupting markets, aid including food aid, should draw on local and regional resources and procurements. Drawing on such resources and procurements not only avoids additional environmental and financial costs, but also involves local capacities and promotes the local and regional economy. Innovative modalities for aid delivery, including non-commodity based approaches (such as cash and vouchers), should also be considered. |
| --- | --- |

35.

Whenever possible, without unduly disrupting markets, aid including food aid, should draw on local and regional resources and procurements. Drawing on such resources and procurements not only avoids additional environmental and financial costs, but also involves local capacities and promotes the local and regional economy. Innovative modalities for aid delivery, including non-commodity based approaches (such as cash and vouchers), should also be considered.

| 36. | The EU will ensure that humanitarian aid pledges are transformed into commitments and disbursements in a timely way and clearly linked to needs assessments, adjusted as required in response to evolving circumstances. |
| --- | --- |

36.

The EU will ensure that humanitarian aid pledges are transformed into commitments and disbursements in a timely way and clearly linked to needs assessments, adjusted as required in response to evolving circumstances.

| 37. | Humanitarian aid must be based on assessed need, rather than specific targets. However, there is a substantive shortfall of funding at a global level for responding to existing humanitarian needs. It is anticipated that the need for humanitarian assistance may well increase in the short to medium term as a result of demographic, political/security and environmental factors (including climate change). Matching humanitarian needs is likely therefore to require mobilisation of more resources internationally, including from an expanded donor base. |
| --- | --- |

37.

Humanitarian aid must be based on assessed need, rather than specific targets. However, there is a substantive shortfall of funding at a global level for responding to existing humanitarian needs. It is anticipated that the need for humanitarian assistance may well increase in the short to medium term as a result of demographic, political/security and environmental factors (including climate change). Matching humanitarian needs is likely therefore to require mobilisation of more resources internationally, including from an expanded donor base.

| 38. | Collectively, the EU already provides the largest share of official international humanitarian aid. The EU is already committed to an increase in overall Official Development Assistance (ODA), from which humanitarian aid contributions are also drawn. The EU aims to demonstrate its commitment to humanitarian response by mobilising adequate funding for humanitarian aid based on assessed need. In this respect, an assessment of the adequacy of the resources available to the European Community humanitarian aid would be appropriate in light of its comparative advantage. Member States should also consider increasing their bilateral humanitarian aid contributions within the increase in overall ODA. |
| --- | --- |

38.

Collectively, the EU already provides the largest share of official international humanitarian aid. The EU is already committed to an increase in overall Official Development Assistance (ODA), from which humanitarian aid contributions are also drawn. The EU aims to demonstrate its commitment to humanitarian response by mobilising adequate funding for humanitarian aid based on assessed need. In this respect, an assessment of the adequacy of the resources available to the European Community humanitarian aid would be appropriate in light of its comparative advantage. Member States should also consider increasing their bilateral humanitarian aid contributions within the increase in overall ODA.

| 39. | In responding to humanitarian need particular vulnerabilities must be taken into account. In this context, the EU will pay special attention to women, children, the elderly, sick and disabled people, and to addressing their specific needs. Moreover, protection strategies against sexual and gender based violence must be incorporated in all aspects of humanitarian assistance. |
| --- | --- |

39.

In responding to humanitarian need particular vulnerabilities must be taken into account. In this context, the EU will pay special attention to women, children, the elderly, sick and disabled people, and to addressing their specific needs. Moreover, protection strategies against sexual and gender based violence must be incorporated in all aspects of humanitarian assistance.

3.3.   Quality, effectiveness and accountability (6)

| 40. | Addressing the issues of speed and quality are both critical in delivering humanitarian aid effectively. As donors we have the responsibility to ensure that aid delivered represents the best available option and is suitable for the purpose it is intended. Therefore, humanitarian action should follow a set of internationally recognised standards and principles. These have been encapsulated in the ‘Code of Conduct for the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and Non-Governmental Organisations in Disaster Relief’ (7) and broadly incorporated in the ‘Humanitarian Charter’. Widely recognised minimum standards in Disaster Response have been set out in general and per sector including through the Sphere Project (8). These principles for aid provision correlate to the internationally accepted OECD-DAC criteria for the evaluation of Humanitarian Aid (9). The EU also notes positively the work on International Disaster Response Laws, Rules and Principles (IDRL). |
| --- | --- |

40.

Addressing the issues of speed and quality are both critical in delivering humanitarian aid effectively. As donors we have the responsibility to ensure that aid delivered represents the best available option and is suitable for the purpose it is intended. Therefore, humanitarian action should follow a set of internationally recognised standards and principles. These have been encapsulated in the ‘Code of Conduct for the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and Non-Governmental Organisations in Disaster Relief’ (7) and broadly incorporated in the ‘Humanitarian Charter’. Widely recognised minimum standards in Disaster Response have been set out in general and per sector including through the Sphere Project (8). These principles for aid provision correlate to the internationally accepted OECD-DAC criteria for the evaluation of Humanitarian Aid (9). The EU also notes positively the work on International Disaster Response Laws, Rules and Principles (IDRL).

| 41. | The EU subscribes fully to these sets of principles, standards and evaluation criteria, which alongside the GHD initiative, constitute the general framework for ensuring a quality approach to the provision of EU humanitarian aid. |
| --- | --- |

41.

The EU subscribes fully to these sets of principles, standards and evaluation criteria, which alongside the GHD initiative, constitute the general framework for ensuring a quality approach to the provision of EU humanitarian aid.

| 42. | Policies in the different sectoral areas of humanitarian aid intervention, such as health, nutrition, water and sanitation, livelihood support and protection, must be adapted to context and to recipients in order to have maximum impact. The ‘do no harm principle’ is the minimum requirement underlying such policies and aid approaches, which also means that environmental and other longer-term considerations must be taken into account from the outset even in short-term emergency interventions. |
| --- | --- |

42.

Policies in the different sectoral areas of humanitarian aid intervention, such as health, nutrition, water and sanitation, livelihood support and protection, must be adapted to context and to recipients in order to have maximum impact. The ‘do no harm principle’ is the minimum requirement underlying such policies and aid approaches, which also means that environmental and other longer-term considerations must be taken into account from the outset even in short-term emergency interventions.

| 43. | Accountability in the context of humanitarian aid encompasses both accountability to European citizens on the good use of public funds, and accountability to those in need in the countries facing humanitarian crisis, to ensure that the aid is suitably adapted to the circumstances and is provided in a way that enhances prospects for recovery. |
| --- | --- |

43.

Accountability in the context of humanitarian aid encompasses both accountability to European citizens on the good use of public funds, and accountability to those in need in the countries facing humanitarian crisis, to ensure that the aid is suitably adapted to the circumstances and is provided in a way that enhances prospects for recovery.

| 44. | Qualitative input and performance indicators, cost effectiveness criteria (e.g. overheads in proportion to aid going to recipients) and, as far as possible, a participative approach with local populations at the various stages of the assistance programmes, particularly in protracted crises, are all elements that the EU will consider carefully. |
| --- | --- |

44.

Qualitative input and performance indicators, cost effectiveness criteria (e.g. overheads in proportion to aid going to recipients) and, as far as possible, a participative approach with local populations at the various stages of the assistance programmes, particularly in protracted crises, are all elements that the EU will consider carefully.

| 45. | Accountability to people assisted commits the aid provider to work within a framework of quality standards, principles, policies and guidelines, and promotes training and capacity building activities, ensuring the involvement of those assisted. A quality approach demands a high level of assurance from partners through the application of partner eligibility criteria and performance monitoring during implementation of the operation. Such quality assurances should be achievable by partners, taking into account their size and degree of specialisation. |
| --- | --- |

45.

Accountability to people assisted commits the aid provider to work within a framework of quality standards, principles, policies and guidelines, and promotes training and capacity building activities, ensuring the involvement of those assisted. A quality approach demands a high level of assurance from partners through the application of partner eligibility criteria and performance monitoring during implementation of the operation. Such quality assurances should be achievable by partners, taking into account their size and degree of specialisation.

| 46. | Accountability measures therefore include financial control and reporting on humanitarian operations, evaluation and measuring results and effectiveness, cost and impact analysis of different response options, quality assurance, transparency, participative approaches to assistance, and communication. |
| --- | --- |

46.

Accountability measures therefore include financial control and reporting on humanitarian operations, evaluation and measuring results and effectiveness, cost and impact analysis of different response options, quality assurance, transparency, participative approaches to assistance, and communication.

| 47. | Regular evaluation and lessons learnt exercises reviewing response to specific crises are valuable components in enhancing the effectiveness of humanitarian aid. The EU could usefully work together on both joint approaches and on exchange of information on evaluation done by each individual donor. The EU will therefore exchange information on evaluation planning, results and responses, including on quality of partnership and undertake joint lessons learnt exercises in response to major crises involving multiple donors. The EU should collectively review its overall humanitarian aid provision regularly, where possible on a yearly basis. |
| --- | --- |

47.

Regular evaluation and lessons learnt exercises reviewing response to specific crises are valuable components in enhancing the effectiveness of humanitarian aid. The EU could usefully work together on both joint approaches and on exchange of information on evaluation done by each individual donor. The EU will therefore exchange information on evaluation planning, results and responses, including on quality of partnership and undertake joint lessons learnt exercises in response to major crises involving multiple donors. The EU should collectively review its overall humanitarian aid provision regularly, where possible on a yearly basis.

3.4.   Diversity and quality in partnership

| 48. | In support of local capacities, a swift and efficient response to humanitarian crises depends on the availability of partners in the field, in particular civil society and mandated international organisations, whose legitimacy, expertise and resources allow them to cope with a particular aspect of a crisis. |
| --- | --- |

48.

In support of local capacities, a swift and efficient response to humanitarian crises depends on the availability of partners in the field, in particular civil society and mandated international organisations, whose legitimacy, expertise and resources allow them to cope with a particular aspect of a crisis.

| 49. | The UN and its Relief agencies are at the core of the international humanitarian system as a norm setter, a coordinator and also a major implementer of humanitarian aid. Similarly, the International Committee of the Red Cross has a specialised mandate based on international treaties and is in many contexts, particularly in conflict situations, one of the few — sometimes the only — partner with access in order to be able to provide protection and to deliver humanitarian assistance. Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies supported by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies are particularly well-rooted in local communities and are often best placed to provide an immediate response to natural disasters. Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) are essential to the humanitarian response as they deliver the majority of international humanitarian aid due to their field-presence and flexibility, often with a high-level of specialisation. They are also a direct expression of active citizenship at the service of the humanitarian cause. |
| --- | --- |

49.

The UN and its Relief agencies are at the core of the international humanitarian system as a norm setter, a coordinator and also a major implementer of humanitarian aid. Similarly, the International Committee of the Red Cross has a specialised mandate based on international treaties and is in many contexts, particularly in conflict situations, one of the few — sometimes the only — partner with access in order to be able to provide protection and to deliver humanitarian assistance. Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies supported by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies are particularly well-rooted in local communities and are often best placed to provide an immediate response to natural disasters. Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) are essential to the humanitarian response as they deliver the majority of international humanitarian aid due to their field-presence and flexibility, often with a high-level of specialisation. They are also a direct expression of active citizenship at the service of the humanitarian cause.

| 50. | The EU underlines its intrinsic support for a plurality of implementing Partners — the UN, the Red Cross/Crescent Movement and the NGOs — and acknowledges that each has comparative advantages in responding to certain situations or circumstances. However, the EU also recognises the need for close coordination, coherence and complementarity between implementing Partners on the ground. |
| --- | --- |

50.

The EU underlines its intrinsic support for a plurality of implementing Partners — the UN, the Red Cross/Crescent Movement and the NGOs — and acknowledges that each has comparative advantages in responding to certain situations or circumstances. However, the EU also recognises the need for close coordination, coherence and complementarity between implementing Partners on the ground.

| 51. | Within the EU and internationally there are various approaches to selection and quality assurance of implementing partners in provision of humanitarian aid. EU donors' criteria for selection of implementing partners include professionalism and management capacity, capacity to respond to identified need (technical and logistical capacity, including presence and access), adherence to the humanitarian principles and international law, as well as international codes of conduct, guidelines and best practice in delivery of aid, specialist knowledge or mandate, cost-efficiency, local partnership and experience in operational contexts, readiness to take part in coordination activities established for overall operational effectiveness, accountability, including reporting transparently on results, and quality of implementation capacity, including sound financial management. On the basis of their various traditions, EU Member States and the Commission will exchange information about their practice of selection of implementing partners. |
| --- | --- |

51.

Within the EU and internationally there are various approaches to selection and quality assurance of implementing partners in provision of humanitarian aid. EU donors' criteria for selection of implementing partners include professionalism and management capacity, capacity to respond to identified need (technical and logistical capacity, including presence and access), adherence to the humanitarian principles and international law, as well as international codes of conduct, guidelines and best practice in delivery of aid, specialist knowledge or mandate, cost-efficiency, local partnership and experience in operational contexts, readiness to take part in coordination activities established for overall operational effectiveness, accountability, including reporting transparently on results, and quality of implementation capacity, including sound financial management. On the basis of their various traditions, EU Member States and the Commission will exchange information about their practice of selection of implementing partners.

| 52. | The allocation of aid requires specific administrative procedures that vary from one donor to another. All EU donors will seek to maximise the opportunity for flexibility within their systems and streamline procedures to the extent possible in order to reduce the administrative burden on implementing organisations, whilst ensuring quality in partnership and strong accountability in aid delivery. |
| --- | --- |

52.

The allocation of aid requires specific administrative procedures that vary from one donor to another. All EU donors will seek to maximise the opportunity for flexibility within their systems and streamline procedures to the extent possible in order to reduce the administrative burden on implementing organisations, whilst ensuring quality in partnership and strong accountability in aid delivery.

| 53. | Local response to coping with humanitarian crisis is a vital component. Local actors are on the front line when disaster strikes suddenly and increasingly also at the core of the humanitarian response in complex emergencies. The EU will examine how best it can offer support to capacity-building activities for sustainable strengthening of local disaster response, and encourage implementing partners in fostering partnership with local organisations in affected communities. |
| --- | --- |

53.

Local response to coping with humanitarian crisis is a vital component. Local actors are on the front line when disaster strikes suddenly and increasingly also at the core of the humanitarian response in complex emergencies. The EU will examine how best it can offer support to capacity-building activities for sustainable strengthening of local disaster response, and encourage implementing partners in fostering partnership with local organisations in affected communities.

3.5.   Capacity and Rapid Response

| 54. | Within the EU, various capacities already exist for rapid deployment of specialist teams and rapid dispatch of humanitarian aid or relief items. The EU seeks to avoid duplication by reinforcing its efforts to address capacity gaps building on existing systems in support of international efforts, particularly the various regional logistical hubs. |
| --- | --- |

54.

Within the EU, various capacities already exist for rapid deployment of specialist teams and rapid dispatch of humanitarian aid or relief items. The EU seeks to avoid duplication by reinforcing its efforts to address capacity gaps building on existing systems in support of international efforts, particularly the various regional logistical hubs.

| 55. | The EU will therefore examine ways to strengthen its rapid response to humanitarian crises by working together building on existing comparative strengths, in coordination with efforts made by the wider humanitarian community. The EU seeks to underpin international efforts to map and plug identified response gaps, such as those related to the international coordination of logistics, transport, communications, and surge-arrangements for responding rapidly to disaster. The EU will promote access for the broad range of partners to common humanitarian services. |
| --- | --- |

55.

The EU will therefore examine ways to strengthen its rapid response to humanitarian crises by working together building on existing comparative strengths, in coordination with efforts made by the wider humanitarian community. The EU seeks to underpin international efforts to map and plug identified response gaps, such as those related to the international coordination of logistics, transport, communications, and surge-arrangements for responding rapidly to disaster. The EU will promote access for the broad range of partners to common humanitarian services.

| 56. | In the first instance the EU will contribute by a transparent and comprehensive mapping of all elements of its current capacities, with the aim of getting an overview of existing and potential capacities and the most efficient way of utilising them. |
| --- | --- |

56.

In the first instance the EU will contribute by a transparent and comprehensive mapping of all elements of its current capacities, with the aim of getting an overview of existing and potential capacities and the most efficient way of utilising them.

3.6.   Use of civil protection and military assets and capabilities

| 57. | The use of civil protection resources and military assets in response to humanitarian situations must be in line with the Guidelines on the Use of Military and Civil Defence Assets in complex emergencies (10) and the Oslo Guidelines on the Use of Military and Civil Defence Assets in International Disaster Relief (11), in particular to safeguard compliance with the humanitarian principles of neutrality, humanity, impartiality and independence. The EU will promote a common understanding of these guidelines. The EU will also encourage common training on international law and the fundamental humanitarian principles. |
| --- | --- |

57.

The use of civil protection resources and military assets in response to humanitarian situations must be in line with the Guidelines on the Use of Military and Civil Defence Assets in complex emergencies (10) and the Oslo Guidelines on the Use of Military and Civil Defence Assets in International Disaster Relief (11), in particular to safeguard compliance with the humanitarian principles of neutrality, humanity, impartiality and independence. The EU will promote a common understanding of these guidelines. The EU will also encourage common training on international law and the fundamental humanitarian principles.

Civil Protection (12)

| 58. | European humanitarian aid may draw on various Community and Member State instruments, including civil protection resources, which cover a wide range of State-owned and non-State assets. These assets, when deployed in a humanitarian context in third countries, are under civilian command and are in principle deployed in response to a formal request from the affected State. They are dispatched bilaterally, through the UN or through the Monitoring and Information Centre (MIC) within the framework of the Community Civil Protection Mechanism. Increasingly, Member States use their civil protection capacities in disaster responses in third countries, principally in natural disasters and technological and environmental emergencies. Where deployed in any humanitarian crisis, the use of civil protection resources should be needs-driven and complementary to and coherent with humanitarian aid. Therefore, proper coordination between different European actors and instruments is essential, as is respect for the overall coordinating role of the UN. At EU level, the use of civil protection resources in the framework of the Mechanism is subject to close cooperation with the Presidency. Civil protection personnel deployed for humanitarian purposes will always be unarmed. |
| --- | --- |

58.

European humanitarian aid may draw on various Community and Member State instruments, including civil protection resources, which cover a wide range of State-owned and non-State assets. These assets, when deployed in a humanitarian context in third countries, are under civilian command and are in principle deployed in response to a formal request from the affected State. They are dispatched bilaterally, through the UN or through the Monitoring and Information Centre (MIC) within the framework of the Community Civil Protection Mechanism. Increasingly, Member States use their civil protection capacities in disaster responses in third countries, principally in natural disasters and technological and environmental emergencies. Where deployed in any humanitarian crisis, the use of civil protection resources should be needs-driven and complementary to and coherent with humanitarian aid. Therefore, proper coordination between different European actors and instruments is essential, as is respect for the overall coordinating role of the UN. At EU level, the use of civil protection resources in the framework of the Mechanism is subject to close cooperation with the Presidency. Civil protection personnel deployed for humanitarian purposes will always be unarmed.

| 59. | In natural disasters and technological and environmental emergencies, civil protection resources can provide an important contribution to humanitarian actions based on humanitarian needs assessments and their possible advantages in terms of speed, specialisation, efficiency and effectiveness, especially in the early phase of relief response. |
| --- | --- |

59.

In natural disasters and technological and environmental emergencies, civil protection resources can provide an important contribution to humanitarian actions based on humanitarian needs assessments and their possible advantages in terms of speed, specialisation, efficiency and effectiveness, especially in the early phase of relief response.

| 60. | In complex emergencies recourse to civil protection assets should rather be the exception. Their use in complex emergencies, including in situations of fragility, is especially delicate and sensitive as it risks compromising the perception of the neutrality and impartiality of the relief effort. This can result in exposing relief workers as well as the affected population to attacks from warring parties, and in being denied access to the affected population not only in the current, but also in future emergencies. These risks need to be carefully weighed against the immediacy of the needs of the population and the need for civil protection resources to cover them. |
| --- | --- |

60.

In complex emergencies recourse to civil protection assets should rather be the exception. Their use in complex emergencies, including in situations of fragility, is especially delicate and sensitive as it risks compromising the perception of the neutrality and impartiality of the relief effort. This can result in exposing relief workers as well as the affected population to attacks from warring parties, and in being denied access to the affected population not only in the current, but also in future emergencies. These risks need to be carefully weighed against the immediacy of the needs of the population and the need for civil protection resources to cover them.

Military assets

| 61. | Under very specific conditions, humanitarian aid may draw upon military assets, notably for logistical and infrastructure support mainly in the context of natural disasters. The EU has developed a General Framework for the use of Member States military or military chartered transportation assets and ESDP coordination tools in support of EU disaster response (13). Standard operating procedures have been developed. The EU has also put in place arrangements for military support to EU disaster response (identification and coordination of available assets and capabilities) (14). In order to avoid a blurring of lines between military operations and humanitarian aid, it is essential that military assets and capabilities are used only in very limited circumstances in support of humanitarian relief operations as a ‘last resort’, i.e. where there is no comparable civilian alternative and only the use of military assets that are unique in capability and availability can meet a critical humanitarian need. |
| --- | --- |

61.

Under very specific conditions, humanitarian aid may draw upon military assets, notably for logistical and infrastructure support mainly in the context of natural disasters. The EU has developed a General Framework for the use of Member States military or military chartered transportation assets and ESDP coordination tools in support of EU disaster response (13). Standard operating procedures have been developed. The EU has also put in place arrangements for military support to EU disaster response (identification and coordination of available assets and capabilities) (14). In order to avoid a blurring of lines between military operations and humanitarian aid, it is essential that military assets and capabilities are used only in very limited circumstances in support of humanitarian relief operations as a ‘last resort’, i.e. where there is no comparable civilian alternative and only the use of military assets that are unique in capability and availability can meet a critical humanitarian need.

| 62. | Where military assets or capabilities are deployed in such circumstances, the primary responsibility of the competent authorities of the affected State as well as the overall role and responsibility of the United Nations in coordinating international relief assistance in third countries need to be respected. |
| --- | --- |

62.

Where military assets or capabilities are deployed in such circumstances, the primary responsibility of the competent authorities of the affected State as well as the overall role and responsibility of the United Nations in coordinating international relief assistance in third countries need to be respected.

| 63. | The EU reaffirms that a humanitarian operation making use of military assets must retain its civilian nature and character. This means that, while military assets will remain under military control, the humanitarian operation as a whole must remain under the overall authority and control of the responsible humanitarian organisation, notably OCHA and the Humanitarian Coordinator (with overall responsibility for the relief effort). This does not infer any civilian command and control status over military assets. |
| --- | --- |

63.

The EU reaffirms that a humanitarian operation making use of military assets must retain its civilian nature and character. This means that, while military assets will remain under military control, the humanitarian operation as a whole must remain under the overall authority and control of the responsible humanitarian organisation, notably OCHA and the Humanitarian Coordinator (with overall responsibility for the relief effort). This does not infer any civilian command and control status over military assets.

| 64. | The EU considers that civil-military coordination, as the essential interaction between civilian/humanitarian and military actors in humanitarian emergencies, is vital to protect and promote humanitarian principles. Coordination is facilitated by dialogue, liaison and common training. |
| --- | --- |

64.

The EU considers that civil-military coordination, as the essential interaction between civilian/humanitarian and military actors in humanitarian emergencies, is vital to protect and promote humanitarian principles. Coordination is facilitated by dialogue, liaison and common training.

| 65. | The EU affirms its commitment that the provision of Member States military or military chartered transport assets and/or other capabilities for humanitarian life saving actions should be provided at no cost to the affected State or receiving humanitarian actor. The EU encourages increased efforts of humanitarian and military actors to improve mutual understanding and respect on respective mandates and roles and to liaise on potential approaches to disaster response. To this end the EU is committed to sending where needed and appropriate civil-military liaison officer(s) to facilitate and actively engage in civil-military coordination. |
| --- | --- |

65.

The EU affirms its commitment that the provision of Member States military or military chartered transport assets and/or other capabilities for humanitarian life saving actions should be provided at no cost to the affected State or receiving humanitarian actor. The EU encourages increased efforts of humanitarian and military actors to improve mutual understanding and respect on respective mandates and roles and to liaise on potential approaches to disaster response. To this end the EU is committed to sending where needed and appropriate civil-military liaison officer(s) to facilitate and actively engage in civil-military coordination.

4.   International Humanitarian Action

| 66. | Humanitarian action is a collective responsibility at an international level, involving many different organisations, governments, local communities and individuals. For the EU, supporting the development of the collective global capacity to respond to humanitarian crises is one of the fundamental tenants of our approach. The EU commits itself not to duplicate existing international mechanisms. |
| --- | --- |

66.

Humanitarian action is a collective responsibility at an international level, involving many different organisations, governments, local communities and individuals. For the EU, supporting the development of the collective global capacity to respond to humanitarian crises is one of the fundamental tenants of our approach. The EU commits itself not to duplicate existing international mechanisms.

| 67. | International efforts to ensure an adequate overall humanitarian response have been reinforced in recent years by UN-led reforms of the humanitarian system, in cooperation with other humanitarian actors and donors. The EU reiterates its strong support for humanitarian system reform with the aim of ensuring a better response to those in need. |
| --- | --- |

67.

International efforts to ensure an adequate overall humanitarian response have been reinforced in recent years by UN-led reforms of the humanitarian system, in cooperation with other humanitarian actors and donors. The EU reiterates its strong support for humanitarian system reform with the aim of ensuring a better response to those in need.

| 68. | One important challenge is increasing the overall volume of funding for humanitarian action to match the growing needs. The EU supports the aim of enhancing the predictability and flexibility of humanitarian financing both through multilateral and direct (bilateral) mechanisms, each with comparative advantages. For this purpose new financial mechanisms have been put in place, notably the UN Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) and Common Humanitarian Funds (15). These new mechanisms are welcomed by the EU as a useful supplement to a range of available financing instruments. The EU recalls that contributions to the CERF should be additional to current commitments (16), and should not displace direct financial support available to other humanitarian operations and to the full range of implementing partners. |
| --- | --- |

68.

One important challenge is increasing the overall volume of funding for humanitarian action to match the growing needs. The EU supports the aim of enhancing the predictability and flexibility of humanitarian financing both through multilateral and direct (bilateral) mechanisms, each with comparative advantages. For this purpose new financial mechanisms have been put in place, notably the UN Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) and Common Humanitarian Funds (15). These new mechanisms are welcomed by the EU as a useful supplement to a range of available financing instruments. The EU recalls that contributions to the CERF should be additional to current commitments (16), and should not displace direct financial support available to other humanitarian operations and to the full range of implementing partners.

| 69. | The EU welcomes the emphasis given by the UN to ‘under-funded’ crises through a specific component of the CERF aimed at channelling supplementary resources to those crises, in particular where these correspond to ‘forgotten crises’ (17), and recalls the importance of transparent, needs-based allocation of CERF funding. |
| --- | --- |

69.

The EU welcomes the emphasis given by the UN to ‘under-funded’ crises through a specific component of the CERF aimed at channelling supplementary resources to those crises, in particular where these correspond to ‘forgotten crises’ (17), and recalls the importance of transparent, needs-based allocation of CERF funding.

| 70. | Another major focus of attention for improving the global response to humanitarian crises is the attempt to ensure better coherence and coordination of the various actors, and a clear prioritisation and identification of response gaps through the application of the ‘cluster approach’ (18) and the strengthening of the Humanitarian Coordinator system. The EU fully supports these efforts, recalling that they should be broadly inclusive of all humanitarian actors and should serve the purpose of improving humanitarian aid delivery on the ground to those most in need. |
| --- | --- |

70.

Another major focus of attention for improving the global response to humanitarian crises is the attempt to ensure better coherence and coordination of the various actors, and a clear prioritisation and identification of response gaps through the application of the ‘cluster approach’ (18) and the strengthening of the Humanitarian Coordinator system. The EU fully supports these efforts, recalling that they should be broadly inclusive of all humanitarian actors and should serve the purpose of improving humanitarian aid delivery on the ground to those most in need.

| 71. | Beyond the efforts pursued within the EU on humanitarian assistance, the EU fully recognises the need to reinforce work closely with others on issues of good donorship and effective humanitarian response and advocacy. The EU reaffirms that its efforts should be firmly anchored in broader international approaches, with the UN-OCHA in the central coordinating role. UN General Assembly Resolution 46/182 remains a guiding reference in this respect. |
| --- | --- |

71.

Beyond the efforts pursued within the EU on humanitarian assistance, the EU fully recognises the need to reinforce work closely with others on issues of good donorship and effective humanitarian response and advocacy. The EU reaffirms that its efforts should be firmly anchored in broader international approaches, with the UN-OCHA in the central coordinating role. UN General Assembly Resolution 46/182 remains a guiding reference in this respect.

| 72. | The EU recognises that its contribution, as a Union of traditional (governmental) donors of humanitarian aid, represents only a small part of the overall solidarity and humanity so often expressed through private donations, and extended family or group support to those in need. An expansion of the governmental donor base could contribute significantly to meeting increasing humanitarian needs. All forms of humanitarian aid should be given in accordance with the humanitarian principles. To ensure that resources follow needs and to help reinforce accountability, it is important that all donors report their humanitarian aid contributions to the UN-OCHA managed Financial Tracking Service. Ways to record more fully sources of funding that do not come via governments in the Financial Tracking system could usefully be explored in order to maintain an accurate picture of the overall humanitarian response. |
| --- | --- |

72.

The EU recognises that its contribution, as a Union of traditional (governmental) donors of humanitarian aid, represents only a small part of the overall solidarity and humanity so often expressed through private donations, and extended family or group support to those in need. An expansion of the governmental donor base could contribute significantly to meeting increasing humanitarian needs. All forms of humanitarian aid should be given in accordance with the humanitarian principles. To ensure that resources follow needs and to help reinforce accountability, it is important that all donors report their humanitarian aid contributions to the UN-OCHA managed Financial Tracking Service. Ways to record more fully sources of funding that do not come via governments in the Financial Tracking system could usefully be explored in order to maintain an accurate picture of the overall humanitarian response.

| 73. | The EU will continue to work closely with other major donors of official humanitarian assistance both in the Good Humanitarian Donorship initiative and through the wide range of contacts between donors in both bilateral and multilateral contexts. The EU will also encourage joint and bilateral outreach efforts to expand the donor base beyond its traditional limits. |
| --- | --- |

73.

The EU will continue to work closely with other major donors of official humanitarian assistance both in the Good Humanitarian Donorship initiative and through the wide range of contacts between donors in both bilateral and multilateral contexts. The EU will also encourage joint and bilateral outreach efforts to expand the donor base beyond its traditional limits.

| 74. | The EU recognises that a key element in saving lives — in particular in sudden onset natural disasters — is local capacity. Therefore, it will strengthen its efforts to provide more local capacity building to those best placed to respond when disaster strikes. |
| --- | --- |

74.

The EU recognises that a key element in saving lives — in particular in sudden onset natural disasters — is local capacity. Therefore, it will strengthen its efforts to provide more local capacity building to those best placed to respond when disaster strikes.

5.   The Aid Continuum/Contiguum

5.1.   Reducing Risk and Vulnerability through Enhanced Preparedness

| 75. | The EU recognises that reducing risk and vulnerability through enhanced preparedness is essential to preserving life, especially in zones vulnerable to natural disasters and climatic change. The EU is committed to promoting disaster risk reduction and disaster preparedness in developing countries through coherent and coordinated action at local, national and regional level. Therefore the EU will promote international efforts within the Hyogo Framework for Action as well as support for the coordinating role of the International Strategy for Disaster Reduction, to increase coping capacities at all levels through strategic planning and action. |
| --- | --- |

75.

The EU recognises that reducing risk and vulnerability through enhanced preparedness is essential to preserving life, especially in zones vulnerable to natural disasters and climatic change. The EU is committed to promoting disaster risk reduction and disaster preparedness in developing countries through coherent and coordinated action at local, national and regional level. Therefore the EU will promote international efforts within the Hyogo Framework for Action as well as support for the coordinating role of the International Strategy for Disaster Reduction, to increase coping capacities at all levels through strategic planning and action.

| 76. | The EU will establish an overall EU policy approach to support action in this area with special focus on disaster prone countries and regions and the most vulnerable groups. The EU will support community-based preparedness activities in humanitarian operations and mainstream disaster risk reduction in its development policy based on ownership and national strategies of disaster prone countries (19)
   (20). |
| --- | --- |

76.

The EU will establish an overall EU policy approach to support action in this area with special focus on disaster prone countries and regions and the most vulnerable groups. The EU will support community-based preparedness activities in humanitarian operations and mainstream disaster risk reduction in its development policy based on ownership and national strategies of disaster prone countries (19)
   (20).

5.2.   Transition and Early Recovery and ensuring the link to Development Aid

| 77. | Recovery and reconstruction in the aftermath of a disaster is a major challenge, which requires structural and development action beyond immediate emergency aid. Thus it is important to ensure that humanitarian, development and other relevant aid instruments work better together, in particular in situations of fragility and where communities are seeking to recover from the effects of crisis. Achieving better linkage between Relief, Rehabilitation and Development (LRRD) requires humanitarian and development actors to coordinate from the earliest phases of a crisis response and to act in parallel with a view to ensuring a smooth transition. It necessitates mutual awareness of the different modalities, instruments and approaches on the part of all aid actors, and flexible and innovative transition strategies. At an international level the ‘early recovery cluster’ is looking specifically at addressing the link between relief and development aid at the earliest stages of disaster response. |
| --- | --- |

77.

Recovery and reconstruction in the aftermath of a disaster is a major challenge, which requires structural and development action beyond immediate emergency aid. Thus it is important to ensure that humanitarian, development and other relevant aid instruments work better together, in particular in situations of fragility and where communities are seeking to recover from the effects of crisis. Achieving better linkage between Relief, Rehabilitation and Development (LRRD) requires humanitarian and development actors to coordinate from the earliest phases of a crisis response and to act in parallel with a view to ensuring a smooth transition. It necessitates mutual awareness of the different modalities, instruments and approaches on the part of all aid actors, and flexible and innovative transition strategies. At an international level the ‘early recovery cluster’ is looking specifically at addressing the link between relief and development aid at the earliest stages of disaster response.

| 78. | The EU will work together on advancing practical approaches to LRRD. These approaches should be based on experiences and lessons learnt and address improved cooperation between humanitarian and development agencies and other aid actors, including in the international community, particularly at field level and in situations of fragility or complex emergencies. In transitional environments, there remains a need to ensure synergies between humanitarian aid and development aid whilst respecting their distinct objectives, principles and approaches. |
| --- | --- |

78.

The EU will work together on advancing practical approaches to LRRD. These approaches should be based on experiences and lessons learnt and address improved cooperation between humanitarian and development agencies and other aid actors, including in the international community, particularly at field level and in situations of fragility or complex emergencies. In transitional environments, there remains a need to ensure synergies between humanitarian aid and development aid whilst respecting their distinct objectives, principles and approaches.

PART TWO — THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITY AND HUMANITARIAN AID

| 79. | Community policy in the sphere of humanitarian aid is governed by Council Regulation (EC) No 1257/96 of 20 June 1996 (21) which sets out the principal objectives of the Community's humanitarian aid to third countries. |
| --- | --- |

79.

Community policy in the sphere of humanitarian aid is governed by Council Regulation (EC) No 1257/96 of 20 June 1996 (21) which sets out the principal objectives of the Community's humanitarian aid to third countries.

| 80. | The Community will apply the common principles and good practice defined in Part One, within the common framework outlined to deliver EU humanitarian aid. |
| --- | --- |

80.

The Community will apply the common principles and good practice defined in Part One, within the common framework outlined to deliver EU humanitarian aid.

1.   Comparative advantage

| 81. | The Community can be distinguished by its comparative advantage and added value, which enable complementarity with bilateral policies of Member States and other humanitarian donors. |
| --- | --- |

81.

The Community can be distinguished by its comparative advantage and added value, which enable complementarity with bilateral policies of Member States and other humanitarian donors.

| 82. | On behalf of the Community, the Commission provides added value through the following roles: |
| --- | --- |

82.

On behalf of the Community, the Commission provides added value through the following roles:

| 83. | First, a global presence. Implementation of Community humanitarian aid is supported through a network of field experts located world-wide, working out of field offices, including Regional Support Offices. This makes the Community as a donor one of only a few with extensive field-level specialist humanitarian presence. In addition the Commission is able to draw upon the support of its extensive network of Delegations. This allows the Community to do its aid allocation function efficiently based on presence, expertise (notably in assessing need), and rapidity of response, and to assist partners actively on the ground in improving the overall humanitarian response. Furthermore, the Community is well positioned to rapidly complement as required EU Member States' bilateral contributions in response to crisis. |
| --- | --- |

83.

First, a global presence. Implementation of Community humanitarian aid is supported through a network of field experts located world-wide, working out of field offices, including Regional Support Offices. This makes the Community as a donor one of only a few with extensive field-level specialist humanitarian presence. In addition the Commission is able to draw upon the support of its extensive network of Delegations. This allows the Community to do its aid allocation function efficiently based on presence, expertise (notably in assessing need), and rapidity of response, and to assist partners actively on the ground in improving the overall humanitarian response. Furthermore, the Community is well positioned to rapidly complement as required EU Member States' bilateral contributions in response to crisis.

| 84. | Second, with the support of Member States, ensuring coherence in Community policies, in particular at the meeting points between Community policies in the area of humanitarian aid, development, food security, public health and human rights, including through Linking Relief, Rehabilitation and Development (LRRD), disaster risk reduction and preparedness strategies. |
| --- | --- |

84.

Second, with the support of Member States, ensuring coherence in Community policies, in particular at the meeting points between Community policies in the area of humanitarian aid, development, food security, public health and human rights, including through Linking Relief, Rehabilitation and Development (LRRD), disaster risk reduction and preparedness strategies.

| 85. | Third, promoting good humanitarian practice. Over the years, the Community has acquired high levels of recognition as a reference donor and important contributor to humanitarian action. The Community leads the way in ensuring that humanitarian aid allocations are needs based and that no humanitarian crisis is overlooked in the international humanitarian response. The Community is also in a unique position to be able to encourage other humanitarian donors to implement effective and principled humanitarian aid strategies. |
| --- | --- |

85.

Third, promoting good humanitarian practice. Over the years, the Community has acquired high levels of recognition as a reference donor and important contributor to humanitarian action. The Community leads the way in ensuring that humanitarian aid allocations are needs based and that no humanitarian crisis is overlooked in the international humanitarian response. The Community is also in a unique position to be able to encourage other humanitarian donors to implement effective and principled humanitarian aid strategies.

| 86. | Fourth, the Community often has a comparative advantage in being able to intervene in politically sensitive situations more flexibly. |
| --- | --- |

86.

Fourth, the Community often has a comparative advantage in being able to intervene in politically sensitive situations more flexibly.

| 87. | Fifth, in facilitating coordination. The Commission will continue to promote close coordination between its own activities and those of the Member States, both at decision-making level and on the ground. The Commission will also support coordination with other donors and work with the UN system to ensure strategic coordination of both specific crisis responses and policy issues at headquarters and field level. |
| --- | --- |

87.

Fifth, in facilitating coordination. The Commission will continue to promote close coordination between its own activities and those of the Member States, both at decision-making level and on the ground. The Commission will also support coordination with other donors and work with the UN system to ensure strategic coordination of both specific crisis responses and policy issues at headquarters and field level.

2.   Putting good donorship into practice

| 88. | On the assessment of needs, the Commission has developed a specific methodology for analysing general vulnerability and state of crisis at a comparative country level on an annual basis — the Global Needs Assessment. This is shared publicly and has been disseminated widely as ‘good practice’ in the framework of Good Humanitarian Donorship. This approach frames the Community's annual humanitarian aid programming strategy. Detailed needs assessments that shape specific crisis responses are conducted, drawing on valuable operational expertise and linking closely to implementing partners. |
| --- | --- |

88.

On the assessment of needs, the Commission has developed a specific methodology for analysing general vulnerability and state of crisis at a comparative country level on an annual basis — the Global Needs Assessment. This is shared publicly and has been disseminated widely as ‘good practice’ in the framework of Good Humanitarian Donorship. This approach frames the Community's annual humanitarian aid programming strategy. Detailed needs assessments that shape specific crisis responses are conducted, drawing on valuable operational expertise and linking closely to implementing partners.

| 89. | To ensure an equitable approach that pays particular attention to crises that are neglected in the overall humanitarian response, the Commission applies a specific approach to identifying ‘Forgotten Crises’ and to ensuring an appropriate funding response. |
| --- | --- |

89.

To ensure an equitable approach that pays particular attention to crises that are neglected in the overall humanitarian response, the Commission applies a specific approach to identifying ‘Forgotten Crises’ and to ensuring an appropriate funding response.

| 90. | The Commission, through its disaster preparedness funding, including DIPECHO, supported by the humanitarian aid budget, has acquired considerable practical experience of disaster preparedness focussing on community-based activities, including: awareness raising, emergency drills, local early-warning systems, training and education. Such activities serve to mitigate the effects of disaster upon vulnerable populations. This community-based disaster preparedness approach should continue alongside further efforts to mainstream Disaster Risk Reduction into longer-term development aid. |
| --- | --- |

90.

The Commission, through its disaster preparedness funding, including DIPECHO, supported by the humanitarian aid budget, has acquired considerable practical experience of disaster preparedness focussing on community-based activities, including: awareness raising, emergency drills, local early-warning systems, training and education. Such activities serve to mitigate the effects of disaster upon vulnerable populations. This community-based disaster preparedness approach should continue alongside further efforts to mainstream Disaster Risk Reduction into longer-term development aid.

| 91. | The Commission will maintain a high quality response and the ability to react quickly. In order to do this it could usefully reinforce its pre-crisis readiness, including situational assessments and analysis of capacities to respond and surge arrangements, in particular making use of the Commission's extensive humanitarian field expertise and presence (ECHO experts and Regional Support Offices). Commission arrangements will continue to provide added value and should link to those of Member States and of its implementing partners (including the United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination teams). |
| --- | --- |

91.

The Commission will maintain a high quality response and the ability to react quickly. In order to do this it could usefully reinforce its pre-crisis readiness, including situational assessments and analysis of capacities to respond and surge arrangements, in particular making use of the Commission's extensive humanitarian field expertise and presence (ECHO experts and Regional Support Offices). Commission arrangements will continue to provide added value and should link to those of Member States and of its implementing partners (including the United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination teams).

| 92. | The Commission works in close partnership with the humanitarian organisations — in particular the UN relief agencies, the Red Cross/Crescent movement and NGOs that are best placed to implement humanitarian aid on the ground. A strong partnership approach is enshrined in the agreements governing the relations with these organisations. |
| --- | --- |

92.

The Commission works in close partnership with the humanitarian organisations — in particular the UN relief agencies, the Red Cross/Crescent movement and NGOs that are best placed to implement humanitarian aid on the ground. A strong partnership approach is enshrined in the agreements governing the relations with these organisations.

| 93. | For both civil protection and crisis response mechanisms the Community needs to ensure the independence of humanitarian action from other objectives such as political and military. |
| --- | --- |

93.

For both civil protection and crisis response mechanisms the Community needs to ensure the independence of humanitarian action from other objectives such as political and military.

| 94. | Financial accountability on the Community budget is stringent at the EU level. Reporting requirements and procedures for the humanitarian aid managed by the Commission are therefore currently amongst the most thorough of any major official donor. This is a clear requirement in terms of accountability to European citizens that is carefully monitored by the institutions and reflected by the fact that all Community financing decisions are made public. The Community undertakes to continue efforts to streamline and simplify its procedures for humanitarian aid in order to reduce the administrative burden on implementing organisations within the framework of the applicable rules. Harmonisation of reporting by the Community in the humanitarian sphere will take place in accordance with the applicable provisions on general financial accountability and control. |
| --- | --- |

94.

Financial accountability on the Community budget is stringent at the EU level. Reporting requirements and procedures for the humanitarian aid managed by the Commission are therefore currently amongst the most thorough of any major official donor. This is a clear requirement in terms of accountability to European citizens that is carefully monitored by the institutions and reflected by the fact that all Community financing decisions are made public. The Community undertakes to continue efforts to streamline and simplify its procedures for humanitarian aid in order to reduce the administrative burden on implementing organisations within the framework of the applicable rules. Harmonisation of reporting by the Community in the humanitarian sphere will take place in accordance with the applicable provisions on general financial accountability and control.

| 95. | In order to guarantee and enhance the effectiveness and consistency of Community and Member States' humanitarian aid systems, the Commission operates the ‘14 point system’ for Member States to report their humanitarian contributions. This reporting is harmonised with and forwarded on to OCHAs Financial Tracking Service, contributing to the overall quality of humanitarian reporting. |
| --- | --- |

95.

In order to guarantee and enhance the effectiveness and consistency of Community and Member States' humanitarian aid systems, the Commission operates the ‘14 point system’ for Member States to report their humanitarian contributions. This reporting is harmonised with and forwarded on to OCHAs Financial Tracking Service, contributing to the overall quality of humanitarian reporting.

| 96. | Member States and the European Parliament encourage the Commission in implementing good donor practice and undertake to look carefully at the question of the adequacy of budget allocation for humanitarian aid under future Financial Perspectives. |
| --- | --- |

96.

Member States and the European Parliament encourage the Commission in implementing good donor practice and undertake to look carefully at the question of the adequacy of budget allocation for humanitarian aid under future Financial Perspectives.

| 97. | Concretely, the Community will seek in the medium term to:






  — | strengthen its role in humanitarian advocacy, |
| --- | --- | --- |

97.

Concretely, the Community will seek in the medium term to:

—

strengthen its role in humanitarian advocacy,

| — | enhance efforts to raise awareness of humanitarian principles/considerations in the work of the EU institutions, |
| --- | --- |

—

enhance efforts to raise awareness of humanitarian principles/considerations in the work of the EU institutions,

| — | act as a driving force, in particular within the EU, for advancing a well coordinated ‘best practice’ approach to the provision of humanitarian aid, |
| --- | --- |

—

act as a driving force, in particular within the EU, for advancing a well coordinated ‘best practice’ approach to the provision of humanitarian aid,

| — | facilitate participation of all Member States in their provision of humanitarian aid through sharing of accumulated experience and offering specific guidance (e.g. on modalities, partners) as appropriate, with particular attention to encouraging participation of civil society from the newly acceded EU Member States, |
| --- | --- |

—

facilitate participation of all Member States in their provision of humanitarian aid through sharing of accumulated experience and offering specific guidance (e.g. on modalities, partners) as appropriate, with particular attention to encouraging participation of civil society from the newly acceded EU Member States,

| — | work with others, including the UN, the Red Cross/Red Crescent Movement and humanitarian NGOs, on ensuring better needs analysis and on identifying continuing response gaps, |
| --- | --- |

—

work with others, including the UN, the Red Cross/Red Crescent Movement and humanitarian NGOs, on ensuring better needs analysis and on identifying continuing response gaps,

| — | promote sharing of strategies, needs-assessment and context analysis more systematically to improve collective performance to delivering aid better, |
| --- | --- |

—

promote sharing of strategies, needs-assessment and context analysis more systematically to improve collective performance to delivering aid better,

| — | promote value-added sectoral policies based on international best practice in specific policy areas (e.g. children in emergencies, food aid, health), |
| --- | --- |

—

promote value-added sectoral policies based on international best practice in specific policy areas (e.g. children in emergencies, food aid, health),

| — | reinforce coordination with other policies and instruments (LRRD, stability and civil protection instruments), |
| --- | --- |

—

reinforce coordination with other policies and instruments (LRRD, stability and civil protection instruments),

| — | improve further its ability to respond rapidly and flexibly in case of sudden-onset disaster, |
| --- | --- |

—

improve further its ability to respond rapidly and flexibly in case of sudden-onset disaster,

| — | examine more closely the issue of transport and logistics and pre-disaster readiness, including pre-positioning of stocks, |
| --- | --- |

—

examine more closely the issue of transport and logistics and pre-disaster readiness, including pre-positioning of stocks,

| — | continue work with partners to ensure quality and accountability in humanitarian aid, while facilitating flexible and rapid response where necessary, |
| --- | --- |

—

continue work with partners to ensure quality and accountability in humanitarian aid, while facilitating flexible and rapid response where necessary,

| — | continue to streamline and simplify its administrative requirements so as to strengthen collaboration with partners and improve field effectiveness, |
| --- | --- |

—

continue to streamline and simplify its administrative requirements so as to strengthen collaboration with partners and improve field effectiveness,

| — | ensure consistent understanding and application of internationally agreed standards and guidelines in the delivery of aid, supplementing those guidelines with a tailor-made approach if gaps are identified, |
| --- | --- |

—

ensure consistent understanding and application of internationally agreed standards and guidelines in the delivery of aid, supplementing those guidelines with a tailor-made approach if gaps are identified,

| — | systemise lessons learning on crisis response, in addition to maintaining the regular programme of external evaluation and audit, thereby contributing to increasing the effectiveness of Community funded aid operations, |
| --- | --- |

—

systemise lessons learning on crisis response, in addition to maintaining the regular programme of external evaluation and audit, thereby contributing to increasing the effectiveness of Community funded aid operations,

| — | communicate the impact and importance of Community humanitarian aid to the European public to ensure continued high-levels of support from citizens. |
| --- | --- |

—

communicate the impact and importance of Community humanitarian aid to the European public to ensure continued high-levels of support from citizens.

| 98. | The Community therefore seeks to add value by putting good donorship and strong partnership into practice itself, whilst encouraging others to do so, by promoting quality needs-based responses that assimilate lessons learnt from previous crises, and by continually striving to improve performance and professionalism in the delivery of aid. |
| --- | --- |

98.

The Community therefore seeks to add value by putting good donorship and strong partnership into practice itself, whilst encouraging others to do so, by promoting quality needs-based responses that assimilate lessons learnt from previous crises, and by continually striving to improve performance and professionalism in the delivery of aid.

PART THREE — FINAL PROVISIONS

| 99. | In agreeing this Statement, the Council and the Representatives of the Governments of the Member States, the European Parliament and the European Commission commit to work towards furthering the effectiveness of EU humanitarian aid. |
| --- | --- |

99.

In agreeing this Statement, the Council and the Representatives of the Governments of the Member States, the European Parliament and the European Commission commit to work towards furthering the effectiveness of EU humanitarian aid.

| 100. | The European Commission will present an action plan for practical measures to implement this Statement, in close consultation with other relevant stakeholders and with due consideration of the respective roles and competences of all the actors involved in the provision of EU humanitarian aid. |
| --- | --- |

100.

The European Commission will present an action plan for practical measures to implement this Statement, in close consultation with other relevant stakeholders and with due consideration of the respective roles and competences of all the actors involved in the provision of EU humanitarian aid.

| 101. | EU progress in implementation of this Consensus on Humanitarian Aid should be discussed regularly in Council and with the European Parliament, and be reviewed five years after signature. |
| --- | --- |

101.

EU progress in implementation of this Consensus on Humanitarian Aid should be discussed regularly in Council and with the European Parliament, and be reviewed five years after signature.

---

(1)  Community humanitarian aid is based on Article 179 (Development Cooperation) of the Treaty establishing the European Community.

(2)  Member States are Parties to the Geneva Conventions and their Additional Protocols (1977).

(3)  EU Guidelines on promoting compliance with international humanitarian law (OJ C 327, 23.12.2005, p. 4).

(4)  The Principles and Good practice of Humanitarian Donorship, Stockholm, 17 June 2003; endorsed by the OECD-DAC in April 2006.

(5)  Joint statement by the Council and the Representatives of the Governments of the Member States meeting within the Council, the European Parliament and the Commission on European Union Development Policy: ‘The European Consensus’ (OJ C 46, 24.2.2006, p. 1).

(6)  Principles, standards and evaluation criteria for humanitarian aid are set out in the Annex to this Joint Statement.

(7)  ‘Principles of Conduct for the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and NGOs in Disaster Response Programmes’ (1994).

(8)  Sphere ‘Humanitarian Charter’ and Minimum Standards.

(9)  OECD-DAC Guidance for Evaluating Humanitarian Assistance in Complex Emergencies.

(10)  Guidelines on the Use of Military and Civil Defence Assets to support United Nations Humanitarian Activities in Complex Emergencies (March 2003).

(11)  Guidelines on the Use of Military and Civil Defence Assets in International Disaster Relief — ‘Oslo Guidelines’ (re-launched by UN OCHA in November 2006).

(12)  In this context, the term ‘civil protection’ refers to relief operations only. Besides relief operations, civil protection can also be used as a crisis management tool under Title V of the Treaty on European Union and in support of consular assistance.

(13)  General Framework for the use of Member States military and military chartered transportation assets and ESDP coordination tools in support of EU disaster response, doc. 8976/06.

(14)  Military support to EU disaster response — Identification and coordination of available assets and capabilities, doc. 9462/3/06 REV 3 and doc. 14540/06 + COR 1.

(15)  Country-based pooled funds accessible to humanitarian implementing partners and managed by the UN Resident Coordinator/Humanitarian Coordinator.

(16)  UN General Assembly Resolution 60/124 of 15 December 2005.

(17)  Humanitarian Crises identified by the Commission's (DG ECHO) Forgotten Crisis Assessment as having limited donor-response, overall funding shortages and a low-level of media attention.

(18)  Inter-Agency Standing Committee ‘Guidance Note on using the cluster approach to strengthen humanitarian response’, 23 November 2006. The cluster approach operates on two levels. At the global level, the approach builds up capacity in identified key ‘gap’ areas. At the field level, the cluster approach strengthens the coordination and response capacity by mobilising clusters of humanitarian agencies and actors to respond in particular areas of activity, each cluster having a clearly designated and accountable lead.

(19)  The European Consensus on Development, paragraph 21.

(20)  In this context, the EU notes positively the Build Back Better principles outlined in ‘Key propositions for Building Back Better’ — A report by the UN Secretary-General's Special Envoy for Tsunami recovery, William J. Clinton, December 2006.

(21)  OJ L 163, 2.7.1996, p. 1.

---

ANNEX

Principles, standards and evaluation criteria for humanitarian aid

| — | Relief and protection should be provided in accordance with respect for Human Dignity, humanitarian values and human rights, as established in international law. This requires that the provision of aid should not be influenced by specific interests be they economic, political, cultural or religious. The assessment of the needs should in all cases be the foundation stone of the humanitarian programme. This refers to the humanitarian principles of impartiality, neutrality and independence from any political, economic or religious agenda, including the foreign policy of any government or group of Governments (→ OECD-DAC criteria of impact, coverage and effectiveness). |
| --- | --- |

—

Relief and protection should be provided in accordance with respect for Human Dignity, humanitarian values and human rights, as established in international law. This requires that the provision of aid should not be influenced by specific interests be they economic, political, cultural or religious. The assessment of the needs should in all cases be the foundation stone of the humanitarian programme. This refers to the humanitarian principles of impartiality, neutrality and independence from any political, economic or religious agenda, including the foreign policy of any government or group of Governments (→ OECD-DAC criteria of impact, coverage and effectiveness).

| — | Quality emergency relief should be provided as close as possible to as many affected people as possible, as rapidly as possible, given the resources available. This requires the development of appropriate and timely emergency preparedness and response capacities (→ OECD-DAC criteria of timeliness, coverage and efficiency). |
| --- | --- |

—

Quality emergency relief should be provided as close as possible to as many affected people as possible, as rapidly as possible, given the resources available. This requires the development of appropriate and timely emergency preparedness and response capacities (→ OECD-DAC criteria of timeliness, coverage and efficiency).

| — | Aid administrators should be accountable for the results and impact they achieve, not just for how resources are managed. They should be accountable to affected people and to donor taxpayers. Professional planning, monitoring, evaluation and audit are tools for achieving accountability and transparency (→ OECD-DAC criteria of impact, sustainability, coverage and effectiveness). |
| --- | --- |

—

Aid administrators should be accountable for the results and impact they achieve, not just for how resources are managed. They should be accountable to affected people and to donor taxpayers. Professional planning, monitoring, evaluation and audit are tools for achieving accountability and transparency (→ OECD-DAC criteria of impact, sustainability, coverage and effectiveness).

| — | All affected people should be treated as dignified, capable human beings, rather than as helpless objects. The way aid is provided may be as important as the aid itself. Affected populations should participate in the making of decisions that affect their lives. Participation is both a universal right and good management practice (→ OECD-DAC criteria of appropriateness and relevance). |
| --- | --- |

—

All affected people should be treated as dignified, capable human beings, rather than as helpless objects. The way aid is provided may be as important as the aid itself. Affected populations should participate in the making of decisions that affect their lives. Participation is both a universal right and good management practice (→ OECD-DAC criteria of appropriateness and relevance).

| — | Aid should be provided in a manner that takes account of the complexity and variety of human vulnerabilities and should include cross cutting issues such as gender and immediate and longer term impact on the environment. The needs of men are not identical to those of women. Nor are the rights and needs of children the same as those of an adolescent or an adult. Similarly, specific ethnic or religious groups may require particular approaches, considerations and sensitivities, regarding e.g. the type of food provided for their consumption (→ OECD-DAC criteria of appropriateness and relevance). |
| --- | --- |

—

Aid should be provided in a manner that takes account of the complexity and variety of human vulnerabilities and should include cross cutting issues such as gender and immediate and longer term impact on the environment. The needs of men are not identical to those of women. Nor are the rights and needs of children the same as those of an adolescent or an adult. Similarly, specific ethnic or religious groups may require particular approaches, considerations and sensitivities, regarding e.g. the type of food provided for their consumption (→ OECD-DAC criteria of appropriateness and relevance).

| — | While immediate life-saving and sustaining needs are an absolute priority, emergency relief should be a solid foundation for longer term human development, including cultural and environmental development. Longer term planning and coordination with developmental donors is needed to achieve integrated programmes that will link emergency programmes with middle term programmes, in particular rehabilitation, reconstruction and developmental programmes. This should aim to assist populations re-establish and strengthen their own traditional coping mechanisms (→ OECD-DAC criteria of impact, connectedness, coherence and sustainability). |
| --- | --- |

—

While immediate life-saving and sustaining needs are an absolute priority, emergency relief should be a solid foundation for longer term human development, including cultural and environmental development. Longer term planning and coordination with developmental donors is needed to achieve integrated programmes that will link emergency programmes with middle term programmes, in particular rehabilitation, reconstruction and developmental programmes. This should aim to assist populations re-establish and strengthen their own traditional coping mechanisms (→ OECD-DAC criteria of impact, connectedness, coherence and sustainability).

| — | Emergency resources should be managed professionally and with full attention to the cost implied. Good practice in managing and supporting staff is a key management function, whereby staff safety, well-being, rights, dignity and effectiveness are priorities (→ OECD-DAC criteria of (cost) efficiency and effectiveness). |
| --- | --- |

—

Emergency resources should be managed professionally and with full attention to the cost implied. Good practice in managing and supporting staff is a key management function, whereby staff safety, well-being, rights, dignity and effectiveness are priorities (→ OECD-DAC criteria of (cost) efficiency and effectiveness).

| — | Potential unintended harmful effects of the humanitarian response (e.g. prolonging the conflict) or effects that promote inequity amongst recipients of aid should be identified from the initial stages of the programme design and should be pro-actively avoided (→ OECD-DAC criteria of effectiveness, appropriateness, relevance and impact). |
| --- | --- |

—

Potential unintended harmful effects of the humanitarian response (e.g. prolonging the conflict) or effects that promote inequity amongst recipients of aid should be identified from the initial stages of the programme design and should be pro-actively avoided (→ OECD-DAC criteria of effectiveness, appropriateness, relevance and impact).

---

IV Notices

NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS AND BODIES

European Parliament

| 30.1.2008 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 25/13 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

30.1.2008

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 25/13

---

Conference of Community and European Affairs Committees of Parliaments of the European Union (COSAC)

Contribution adopted by the XXXVIII COSAC

Estoril, 14-16 October 2007

(2008/C 25/02)

1.   The IGC and the Future of Europe

| 1.1. | COSAC welcomes the Presidency Conclusions of the European Council held in Brussels on the 21 and 22 June, where an agreement was reached concerning the convening of an Intergovernmental Conference (IGC), under the terms of Article 48 of the TEU (Treaty on European Union). |
| --- | --- |

1.1.

COSAC welcomes the Presidency Conclusions of the European Council held in Brussels on the 21 and 22 June, where an agreement was reached concerning the convening of an Intergovernmental Conference (IGC), under the terms of Article 48 of the TEU (Treaty on European Union).

| 1.2. | COSAC supports the firm stance taken by the Presidency concerning the methodology and timetable for the IGC, so that it is capable of carrying out its work in accordance with the clear and precise mandate decided by the European Council. COSAC welcomes the fact that the IGC mandate envisages a further development of the role of National Parliaments in the European Union whilst safeguarding the substance of the 2004 IGC in this respect. |
| --- | --- |

1.2.

COSAC supports the firm stance taken by the Presidency concerning the methodology and timetable for the IGC, so that it is capable of carrying out its work in accordance with the clear and precise mandate decided by the European Council. COSAC welcomes the fact that the IGC mandate envisages a further development of the role of National Parliaments in the European Union whilst safeguarding the substance of the 2004 IGC in this respect.

| 1.3. | COSAC expresses its support for the Presidency's goal of completing the work of the IGC as quickly as possible. Therefore COSAC wishes that the Reform Treaty is approved during the Informal Meeting of Heads of State and Government on 18 and 19 October, so that the new institutional arrangements, once ratified, would be in place before the European Parliament elections due to be held in June 2009. |
| --- | --- |

1.3.

COSAC expresses its support for the Presidency's goal of completing the work of the IGC as quickly as possible. Therefore COSAC wishes that the Reform Treaty is approved during the Informal Meeting of Heads of State and Government on 18 and 19 October, so that the new institutional arrangements, once ratified, would be in place before the European Parliament elections due to be held in June 2009.

| 1.4. | COSAC believes that the role of both the National Parliaments and the European Parliament in the EU decision-making process will be enhanced and strengthened as a result of the new subsidiarity procedures and additional provisions in the new Reform Treaty. These mechanisms must contribute to ensure that National Parliaments become more closely involved in the EU decision-making process and play a stronger role vis-à-vis their governments in EU Affairs. |
| --- | --- |

1.4.

COSAC believes that the role of both the National Parliaments and the European Parliament in the EU decision-making process will be enhanced and strengthened as a result of the new subsidiarity procedures and additional provisions in the new Reform Treaty. These mechanisms must contribute to ensure that National Parliaments become more closely involved in the EU decision-making process and play a stronger role vis-à-vis their governments in EU Affairs.

| 1.5. | COSAC would appreciate a clarification in Article 6 of Protocol No 2 to the Treaty on European Union (Protocol on the Application of the Principles of Subsidiarity and Proportionality) to the effect that the timeframe of eight weeks for the subsidiarity check should begin only when a draft legislative act has been transmitted to National Parliaments in all the official languages of the Union. |
| --- | --- |

1.5.

COSAC would appreciate a clarification in Article 6 of Protocol No 2 to the Treaty on European Union (Protocol on the Application of the Principles of Subsidiarity and Proportionality) to the effect that the timeframe of eight weeks for the subsidiarity check should begin only when a draft legislative act has been transmitted to National Parliaments in all the official languages of the Union.

| 1.6. | Furthermore, COSAC acknowledges that the implementation of the new rights of National Parliaments in the context on the new Reform Treaty requires not only an enhanced dialogue between National Parliaments, but also a full cooperation from European institutions to ensure an exchange of information with National Parliaments in order to promote transparency, democracy and legitimacy of EU legislation. Therefore, the IGC process currently underway should be providing a good opportunity to strengthen the channels of communication with National Parliaments, so that they can be closely involved and have their views taken into account. COSAC wishes that National Parliaments be associated with Intergovernmental Conferences. |
| --- | --- |

1.6.

Furthermore, COSAC acknowledges that the implementation of the new rights of National Parliaments in the context on the new Reform Treaty requires not only an enhanced dialogue between National Parliaments, but also a full cooperation from European institutions to ensure an exchange of information with National Parliaments in order to promote transparency, democracy and legitimacy of EU legislation. Therefore, the IGC process currently underway should be providing a good opportunity to strengthen the channels of communication with National Parliaments, so that they can be closely involved and have their views taken into account. COSAC wishes that National Parliaments be associated with Intergovernmental Conferences.

2.   Cooperation with the European Commission

| 2.1. | In September 2006 the Commission started to transmit all new proposals and consultation papers directly to National Parliaments, inviting them to react so as to improve the process of policy formulation. COSAC notes that approximately a year after, the assessment of this mechanism is generally positive. This mechanism brought a new dimension to the cooperation of National Parliaments with the Commission and facilitates the monitoring of EU affairs by National Parliaments. |
| --- | --- |

2.1.

In September 2006 the Commission started to transmit all new proposals and consultation papers directly to National Parliaments, inviting them to react so as to improve the process of policy formulation. COSAC notes that approximately a year after, the assessment of this mechanism is generally positive. This mechanism brought a new dimension to the cooperation of National Parliaments with the Commission and facilitates the monitoring of EU affairs by National Parliaments.

| 2.2. | COSAC welcomes the commitment by the Commission to take into account the views submitted by National Parliaments. This mechanism must be preserved in parallel with the implementation of the provisions contained in the Reform Treaty with regard to National Parliaments. It has encouraged many National Parliaments to assume a more active role in the pre-legislative phase of the EU decision-making and thus has enhanced their possibilities to participate effectively at an early stage of the process. |
| --- | --- |

2.2.

COSAC welcomes the commitment by the Commission to take into account the views submitted by National Parliaments. This mechanism must be preserved in parallel with the implementation of the provisions contained in the Reform Treaty with regard to National Parliaments. It has encouraged many National Parliaments to assume a more active role in the pre-legislative phase of the EU decision-making and thus has enhanced their possibilities to participate effectively at an early stage of the process.

| 2.3. | COSAC highlights the importance of the dialogue being developed between the Commission and National Parliaments and wishes this to include concrete action to inform National Parliaments at an early stage about the Commission's policy projects. In this context, COSAC reiterates the wishes already expressed on the occasion of the XXXVII COSAC in Berlin that the positions of National Parliaments are taken into account by the Commission in the formulation of its Legislative and Work Programme for 2008. |
| --- | --- |

2.3.

COSAC highlights the importance of the dialogue being developed between the Commission and National Parliaments and wishes this to include concrete action to inform National Parliaments at an early stage about the Commission's policy projects. In this context, COSAC reiterates the wishes already expressed on the occasion of the XXXVII COSAC in Berlin that the positions of National Parliaments are taken into account by the Commission in the formulation of its Legislative and Work Programme for 2008.

| 2.4. | Concerning the proposals transmitted by the Commission to National Parliaments, COSAC calls upon the Commission to upload to the IPEX the different comments it has received from National Parliaments. COSAC also encourages the Commission to provide National Parliaments with an assessment of how it has taken or plans to take these into account in further formulations of policy. |
| --- | --- |

2.4.

Concerning the proposals transmitted by the Commission to National Parliaments, COSAC calls upon the Commission to upload to the IPEX the different comments it has received from National Parliaments. COSAC also encourages the Commission to provide National Parliaments with an assessment of how it has taken or plans to take these into account in further formulations of policy.

3.   Parliamentary monitoring of the Lisbon Strategy

| 3.1. | COSAC notes that National Parliaments are already actively involved in the implementation of the Lisbon Strategy, namely in their roles as legislators. COSAC wishes however that further developments be made as far as some parliaments' monitoring of the open method of coordination of the Lisbon Strategy is concerned. |
| --- | --- |

3.1.

COSAC notes that National Parliaments are already actively involved in the implementation of the Lisbon Strategy, namely in their roles as legislators. COSAC wishes however that further developments be made as far as some parliaments' monitoring of the open method of coordination of the Lisbon Strategy is concerned.

| 3.2. | COSAC encourages parliaments to try to influence the earlier stages of the process as it would provide the link with the subsequent implementation phase, where parliaments are involved. COSAC emphasises the importance of National Parliaments in the Lisbon Strategy, namely with regards to its national ownership and visibility. |
| --- | --- |

3.2.

COSAC encourages parliaments to try to influence the earlier stages of the process as it would provide the link with the subsequent implementation phase, where parliaments are involved. COSAC emphasises the importance of National Parliaments in the Lisbon Strategy, namely with regards to its national ownership and visibility.

| 3.3. | COSAC stresses that an increase in the electronic interparliamentary exchange of information and best practice regarding the monitoring of the Lisbon Strategy would further contribute to the enhancement of the role that parliaments can play in this domain. In this context, COSAC welcomes the fact that National Parliaments and the European Parliament continue their cooperation in the framework of the Joint Parliamentary Meetings that have been organised since 2005 in advance of the Spring European Council. |
| --- | --- |

3.3.

COSAC stresses that an increase in the electronic interparliamentary exchange of information and best practice regarding the monitoring of the Lisbon Strategy would further contribute to the enhancement of the role that parliaments can play in this domain. In this context, COSAC welcomes the fact that National Parliaments and the European Parliament continue their cooperation in the framework of the Joint Parliamentary Meetings that have been organised since 2005 in advance of the Spring European Council.

| 3.4. | COSAC calls on all National Parliaments to analyse this issue, namely before the upcoming review of the Lisbon Strategy at the Spring European Council 2008, under the Slovenian Presidency, and stresses the importance of National Parliaments being informed about the ongoing preparations for the new three year implementation cycle from 2008-2011. |
| --- | --- |

3.4.

COSAC calls on all National Parliaments to analyse this issue, namely before the upcoming review of the Lisbon Strategy at the Spring European Council 2008, under the Slovenian Presidency, and stresses the importance of National Parliaments being informed about the ongoing preparations for the new three year implementation cycle from 2008-2011.

4.   The Mediterranean Dimension of the EU

| 4.1. | COSAC stresses the strategic importance of the Mediterranean region for the EU. The EU policies towards the Mediterranean partners shall contribute actively to the promotion of political stability, security and also to the development of an area of shared prosperity. COSAC encourages the fostering of social and cultural exchanges, so that a better understanding between peoples and the different religions is promoted. |
| --- | --- |

4.1.

COSAC stresses the strategic importance of the Mediterranean region for the EU. The EU policies towards the Mediterranean partners shall contribute actively to the promotion of political stability, security and also to the development of an area of shared prosperity. COSAC encourages the fostering of social and cultural exchanges, so that a better understanding between peoples and the different religions is promoted.

| 4.2. | COSAC encourages the Member States of the EU to make use of the policy instruments that exist, namely the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership and the European Neighbourhood Policy, in a more coherent and rationalised way, so that the extensive set of policy prescriptions of the Barcelona Association Agreements can be properly linked to the domestic policy programmes of the individual partner States. COSAC emphasises that the connection between the three areas of cooperation — peace, trade and civil society — needs to be highlighted. COSAC wishes that a strengthening of cultural and university cooperation be included in the Euro-Mediterranean agenda in order to develop a specific domain that is concerned with the dimension of cultural identities. |
| --- | --- |

4.2.

COSAC encourages the Member States of the EU to make use of the policy instruments that exist, namely the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership and the European Neighbourhood Policy, in a more coherent and rationalised way, so that the extensive set of policy prescriptions of the Barcelona Association Agreements can be properly linked to the domestic policy programmes of the individual partner States. COSAC emphasises that the connection between the three areas of cooperation — peace, trade and civil society — needs to be highlighted. COSAC wishes that a strengthening of cultural and university cooperation be included in the Euro-Mediterranean agenda in order to develop a specific domain that is concerned with the dimension of cultural identities.

| 4.3. | COSAC highlights the crucial importance of the Parliamentary Dimension of the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership, namely in assessing which might be the priorities in bilateral and multilateral dimensions. It also welcomes the contacts and exchanges that take place in the framework of friendship groups, visits and missions. COSAC emphasises that all these can contribute deeply to the visibility of the Partnership and can also engender a certain feeling of ownership by the all the actors involved in this process. |
| --- | --- |

4.3.

COSAC highlights the crucial importance of the Parliamentary Dimension of the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership, namely in assessing which might be the priorities in bilateral and multilateral dimensions. It also welcomes the contacts and exchanges that take place in the framework of friendship groups, visits and missions. COSAC emphasises that all these can contribute deeply to the visibility of the Partnership and can also engender a certain feeling of ownership by the all the actors involved in this process.

| 4.4. | COSAC calls upon all the partners involved to cooperate closely to find a comprehensive and integrated policy in the field of migration that is capable of providing the necessary linkage between the expectations of both sides, and assessing in what way migration brings benefits to all parties involved. COSAC stresses the need to address the serious issue of irregular migration, whilst ensuring full respect for human rights; including the need to vigorously oppose human trafficking, which is causing loss of life and a great deal of suffering, and recognising that migration and development are closely interlinked. It is also most important to recognise the benefits of legal immigration, especially that of qualified entrants to the European labour market. |
| --- | --- |

4.4.

COSAC calls upon all the partners involved to cooperate closely to find a comprehensive and integrated policy in the field of migration that is capable of providing the necessary linkage between the expectations of both sides, and assessing in what way migration brings benefits to all parties involved. COSAC stresses the need to address the serious issue of irregular migration, whilst ensuring full respect for human rights; including the need to vigorously oppose human trafficking, which is causing loss of life and a great deal of suffering, and recognising that migration and development are closely interlinked. It is also most important to recognise the benefits of legal immigration, especially that of qualified entrants to the European labour market.

5.   Parliamentary monitoring of the EU financial programmes

| 5.1. | COSAC calls upon the European institutions involved in the inter-institutional agreements when defining the EU multi-annual framework (the so called ‘financial perspectives’) to inform National Parliaments about the priorities and strategic goals of that framework. |
| --- | --- |

5.1.

COSAC calls upon the European institutions involved in the inter-institutional agreements when defining the EU multi-annual framework (the so called ‘financial perspectives’) to inform National Parliaments about the priorities and strategic goals of that framework.

| 5.2. | COSAC encourages National Parliaments to further develop their scrutiny in these specific areas, namely the multi-annual framework, the specific spending programmes and the annual budget. This three-fold structure of scrutiny might give a broader and deeper insight in the structure of EU financial programmes. |
| --- | --- |

5.2.

COSAC encourages National Parliaments to further develop their scrutiny in these specific areas, namely the multi-annual framework, the specific spending programmes and the annual budget. This three-fold structure of scrutiny might give a broader and deeper insight in the structure of EU financial programmes.

| 5.3. | Within the scope of the 2008-2009 Budget Review, COSAC invites National Parliaments to express their views before the conclusion of that review, namely through an active involvement in the conference to be organised by the Commission after the consultation period launched by this institution ends. National Parliaments are also encouraged to exchange information on the results of their scrutiny and on whether they have directly forwarded their opinions to the Commission. |
| --- | --- |

5.3.

Within the scope of the 2008-2009 Budget Review, COSAC invites National Parliaments to express their views before the conclusion of that review, namely through an active involvement in the conference to be organised by the Commission after the consultation period launched by this institution ends. National Parliaments are also encouraged to exchange information on the results of their scrutiny and on whether they have directly forwarded their opinions to the Commission.

---

Commission

| 30.1.2008 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 25/16 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

30.1.2008

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 25/16

---

Euro exchange rates (1)

29 January 2008

(2008/C 25/03)

1 euro=

| | Currency | Exchange rate |
| --- | --- | --- |
| USD | US dollar | 1,4773 |
| JPY | Japanese yen | 158,02 |
| DKK | Danish krone | 7,4524 |
| GBP | Pound sterling | 0,74295 |
| SEK | Swedish krona | 9,4487 |
| CHF | Swiss franc | 1,6154 |
| ISK | Iceland króna | 95,60 |
| NOK | Norwegian krone | 8,0350 |
| BGN | Bulgarian lev | 1,9558 |
| CZK | Czech koruna | 25,903 |
| EEK | Estonian kroon | 15,6466 |
| HUF | Hungarian forint | 258,23 |
| LTL | Lithuanian litas | 3,4528 |
| LVL | Latvian lats | 0,6975 |
| PLN | Polish zloty | 3,6173 |
| RON | Romanian leu | 3,7350 |
| SKK | Slovak koruna | 33,659 |
| TRY | Turkish lira | 1,7402 |
| AUD | Australian dollar | 1,6641 |
| CAD | Canadian dollar | 1,4759 |
| HKD | Hong Kong dollar | 11,5299 |
| NZD | New Zealand dollar | 1,8988 |
| SGD | Singapore dollar | 2,0979 |
| KRW | South Korean won | 1 395,61 |
| ZAR | South African rand | 10,5927 |
| CNY | Chinese yuan renminbi | 10,6284 |
| HRK | Croatian kuna | 7,2496 |
| IDR | Indonesian rupiah | 13 772,87 |
| MYR | Malaysian ringgit | 4,7828 |
| PHP | Philippine peso | 59,860 |
| RUB | Russian rouble | 36,1630 |
| THB | Thai baht | 46,300 |
| BRL | Brazilian real | 2,6226 |
| MXN | Mexican peso | 16,0413 |

Currency

Exchange rate

USD

US dollar

1,4773

JPY

Japanese yen

158,02

DKK

Danish krone

7,4524

GBP

Pound sterling

0,74295

SEK

Swedish krona

9,4487

CHF

Swiss franc

1,6154

ISK

Iceland króna

95,60

NOK

Norwegian krone

8,0350

BGN

Bulgarian lev

1,9558

CZK

Czech koruna

25,903

EEK

Estonian kroon

15,6466

HUF

Hungarian forint

258,23

LTL

Lithuanian litas

3,4528

LVL

Latvian lats

0,6975

PLN

Polish zloty

3,6173

RON

Romanian leu

3,7350

SKK

Slovak koruna

33,659

TRY

Turkish lira

1,7402

AUD

Australian dollar

1,6641

CAD

Canadian dollar

1,4759

HKD

Hong Kong dollar

11,5299

NZD

New Zealand dollar

1,8988

SGD

Singapore dollar

2,0979

KRW

South Korean won

1 395,61

ZAR

South African rand

10,5927

CNY

Chinese yuan renminbi

10,6284

HRK

Croatian kuna

7,2496

IDR

Indonesian rupiah

13 772,87

MYR

Malaysian ringgit

4,7828

PHP

Philippine peso

59,860

RUB

Russian rouble

36,1630

THB

Thai baht

46,300

BRL

Brazilian real

2,6226

MXN

Mexican peso

16,0413

---

(1)

Source: reference exchange rate published by the ECB.

---

V Announcements

ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES

Commission

| 30.1.2008 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 25/17 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

30.1.2008

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 25/17

---

Operation of scheduled air services

Invitation to tender issued by Ireland under Article 4(1)(d) of Council Regulation (EEC) No 2408/92 in respect of the operation of scheduled air services within Ireland

(Text with EEA relevance)

(2008/C 25/04)

1.   Introduction

Ireland has amended the public service obligations published in OJ C 39 of 16 February 2005 pursuant to Article 4(1)(a) of Council Regulation (EEC) No 2408/92 of 23 July 1992 on access for Community air carriers to intra-Community air routes, in respect of scheduled air services operated on the following routes, with effect from 22 July 2008:

| — | Galway-Dublin |
| --- | --- |

—

Galway-Dublin

| — | Kerry-Dublin |
| --- | --- |

—

Kerry-Dublin

| — | Knock-Dublin |
| --- | --- |

—

Knock-Dublin

| — | Derry-Dublin |
| --- | --- |

—

Derry-Dublin

| — | Donegal-Dublin |
| --- | --- |

—

Donegal-Dublin

| — | Sligo-Dublin. |
| --- | --- |

—

Sligo-Dublin.

The standards required by the public service obligations are those published in OJ C 39 of 16 February 2005 as amended by the notice published in OJ C 24 of 29 January 2008.

Insofar as by one month of publication, no air carrier will have commenced or be about to commence such air services in accordance with the public service obligations and without requesting financial compensation, Ireland has decided, in accordance with the procedure laid down by Article 4(1)(d) of that Regulation, to continue to limit access to each route to a single air carrier from 22 July 2008 and to offer the right to operate such services by public tender.

2.   Object of invitation to tender

Operation from 22 July 2008 of direct scheduled air services on one or more of the routes listed above in accordance with the public service obligation imposed on the route(s) in question and published in OJ C 39 of 16 February 2005, as amended by the notice published in OJ C 24 of 29 January 2008.

In addition to standalone bids for each route, airlines may also submit combined bids for any of the combinations listed below. Such combined bids would be welcomed where the compensation level proposed is lower than the sum of the two relevant standalone bids (due to economies of scale, etc.).

| — | Derry-Dublin with Knock-Dublin |
| --- | --- |

—

Derry-Dublin with Knock-Dublin

| — | Derry-Dublin with Donegal-Dublin |
| --- | --- |

—

Derry-Dublin with Donegal-Dublin

| — | Knock-Dublin with Sligo-Dublin |
| --- | --- |

—

Knock-Dublin with Sligo-Dublin

| — | Donegal-Dublin with Sligo-Dublin. |
| --- | --- |

—

Donegal-Dublin with Sligo-Dublin.

The terms of the public service obligation imposed on the chosen routes as published in OJ C 39 of 16 February 2005 and amended by the notice published in OJ C 24 of 29 January 2008 will apply in each case.

3.   Participation

Participation is open to all air carriers holding a valid operating licence issued by a Member State in accordance with Regulation (EEC) No 2407/92. The services will operate to aerodromes under the jurisdiction of the Irish Aviation Authority.

4.   Tender procedure

The present tender is subject to the provisions of points (d), (e), (f), (g), (h) and (i) of Article 4(1) of Regulation (EEC) No 2408/92.

5.   Information for Tenderers

The complete tendering dossier, including the Tender Proposal form, financial information requirements, a note on demographic and socio-economic features of each airport's catchment area, a note on each airport (past passenger numbers, landing fees, technical facilities, etc.) and the full conditions of the contract, may be obtained free of charge from: Department of Transport, 44 Kildare Street, Dublin 2, Ireland. Contact: Mr Denis Murphy; tel. (353-1) 604 15 94; fax (353-1) 604 16 81; e-mail: airports@transport.ie.

6.   Information required from Tenderers

In addition to a fully completed Tender Proposal form, tenderers are required to satisfy the awarding authority, having regard to the requirement for the services to commence on 22 July 2008 and to the requirements for reliability and continuity of services, that they have:

| (a) | the financial standing and capacity to undertake and operate the specified services; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

the financial standing and capacity to undertake and operate the specified services;

| (b) | the necessary valid operating licences and certificates (Air Operating Licence and Air Operator's Certificate, issued under the common agreement of JAR-OPS); and |
| --- | --- |

(b)

the necessary valid operating licences and certificates (Air Operating Licence and Air Operator's Certificate, issued under the common agreement of JAR-OPS); and

| (c) | demonstrated previous experience of operating scheduled passenger services. |
| --- | --- |

(c)

demonstrated previous experience of operating scheduled passenger services.

Subject to being satisfied in relation to each of (a), (b) and (c) above, tenders will be evaluated according to which tender is the most economically advantageous, while also taking account of the carrier's capacity to secure the operation of the PSO air services for the duration of the contract term. However, the awarding authority is not obliged to accept any tender. In certain circumstances, the Minister reserves the right to negotiate with bidders on a price related to their bids, but taking account of projected losses based on operating costs, projected yields, etc.

The awarding authority reserves the right to solicit further information about any applicant's financial and/or technical resources and abilities, and without prejudice to the foregoing, to solicit or seek further information, whether from a third party or from the applicant, regarding the ability of the applicant to undertake and operate the relevant scheduled air services.

Tenders should be priced in Euro and all supporting documents must be in the English language. The contract shall be considered as a contract made under Irish law and subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Irish courts.

7.   Financial compensation

Tenders must explicitly state the amount of financial compensation required for the operation of the public service obligation on the route(s) for each of the 3 years from the scheduled starting date. The compensation should be calculated in accordance with the required minimum standards.

The actual amount of the compensation payable by the Department of Transport will be determined annually, on an ex-post basis, and will be limited to the actual losses incurred, having regard to actual costs, revenues and if applicable, profit margin, by the successful tenderer in operating the services, subject, as a maximum, to the limit of the amount stated in respect of each year in the tender.

Payments may be claimed by the carrier on a regular instalment basis, in accordance with the procedures set out in the dossier referred to at 5 above. A balancing payment will be payable at the end of each contract year, subject to receipt by the awarding authority of appropriately documented claims accompanied by certification from the carrier's auditors, in accordance with the terms of the contract.

The contract will include provision for the maximum limit of compensation in any year(s) to be increased in certain circumstances, at the sole discretion of the awarding authority, in the event of extraordinary changes in operating conditions, and without prejudice to the provisions governing the termination of the contract. Requests for an increase in the maximum limit of subvention in any year(s) will be considered by the awarding authority only in circumstances where the developments in question were not or could not have been anticipated by the tenderer or are due to factors entirely outside the control of the tenderer. Compensation for fuel cost increases shall be restricted to instances of exceptional cost escalation (of more than 30 % on average) over a period of a year of the contract and shall be determined according to a formula whereby:

A represents the verifiable fuel cost element of the financial compensation in the relevant contract period of twelve months;

B represents any average percentage increase in the price of jet kerosene over the same 12 months of the contract as reported by the Jet Fuel Price Monitor published by IATA, less 30 percentage points; and

C represents the additional compensation allowable and would be calculated as follows: C = A × B.

All payments under the contract will be in euro.

8.   Period of validity, amendment and termination of the contract

The contract will be awarded by the Minister for Transport. The contract will be valid for a period of 3 years from 22 July 2008. A new invitation to tender will be made, if applicable, before the end of a period of 3 years maximum from 22 July 2008. Any amendment or termination of the contract will be in accordance with the terms of the contract. Variations in the standards required by the public service obligation will be permitted only with the prior agreement of the awarding authority.

Should a situation arise in which a successful tenderer is no longer in a position to provide the contracted service(s), the awarding authority reserves the right to award the contract(s) in question, for the remainder of the contractual period and subject to the same conditions and compensation levels, to the next highest ranking tenderer identified in the original assessment process.

9.   Penalties in the event of the carrier failing to comply with the contract

Where a flight is cancelled for reasons directly attributable to the carrier, the compensation payable will only be in respect of costs, if any, actually incurred by the carriers in handling passengers disrupted by the non-operation of such flights. The awarding authority reserves the right to serve notice of termination of the contract, if having regard to the adequacy of the service provided by the carrier and in particular to the number of flights cancelled and/or delayed for reasons directly attributable to the carrier, it is of the opinion that the standards required by the public service obligation have not been or are not being met satisfactorily.

10.   Deadline for submission of bids

Thirty one (31) calendar days from publication of this communication in the Official Journal of the European Union.

11.   Application procedure

Tenders must be submitted by registered letter, date as post-marked, or delivered to:

Department of Transport, 44 Kildare Street, Dublin 2, Ireland, by 12.00 noon (Irish time) on the date in point 10, in envelopes marked ‘EASP Tender’.

12.   Validity of invitation to tender

In accordance with the first sentence of Article 4(1)(d) of Regulation (EEC) No 2408/92, the validity of this invitation to tender is subject to the condition that no community air carrier presents, prior to deadline for submission of bids, a programme for operating the route(s) in question in accordance with the public service obligation without receiving any financial compensation.

13.   Freedom of Information Act 1997

The Department of Transport undertakes to use its best endeavours to hold confidential any information provided by tenderers, subject to the Department's obligations under law, including the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act 1997 as amended by Freedom of Information Act 2003. If tenderers wish that any of the information supplied by them in their tenders should not be disclosed because of its commercial sensitivity, they should, when providing the information, identify same and specify the reasons for its sensitivity. The Department will consult with tenderers about this sensitive information before making a decision regarding release of the information under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act. If tenderers consider that none of the information supplied by them is commercially sensitive, they should make a statement to that effect and such information may be released in response to an FOI request.

---

European Personnel Selection Office (EPSO)

| 30.1.2008 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 25/20 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

30.1.2008

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 25/20

---

NOTICE OF OPEN COMPETITIONS EPSO/AD/118-123/08

(2008/C 25/05)

The European Personnel Selection Office (EPSO) is organising the following open competitions:

| | EPSO/AD/118/08 — CZECH (CS) |
| --- | --- |

EPSO/AD/118/08 — CZECH (CS)

| | EPSO/AD/119/08 — LITHUANIAN (LT) |
| --- | --- |

EPSO/AD/119/08 — LITHUANIAN (LT)

| | EPSO/AD/120/08 — LATVIAN (LV) |
| --- | --- |

EPSO/AD/120/08 — LATVIAN (LV)

| | EPSO/AD/121/08 — MALTESE (MT) |
| --- | --- |

EPSO/AD/121/08 — MALTESE (MT)

| | EPSO/AD/122/08 — SLOVAK (SK) |
| --- | --- |

EPSO/AD/122/08 — SLOVAK (SK)

| | EPSO/AD/123/08 — SLOVENE (SL) |
| --- | --- |

EPSO/AD/123/08 — SLOVENE (SL)

for Administrators (AD5) in the field of translation.

The competition notice is published in English, French and German only, in Official Journal C 25 A of 30 January 2008.

Full details can be found on the EPSO website: http://europa.eu/epso

---

European Economic and Social Committee

| 30.1.2008 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 25/21 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

30.1.2008

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 25/21

---

Notice of a corrigendum of the vacancy notice for the post of secretary-general (Grade AD16 — Special career bracket) — (Article 2(a) and Article 8 of the Conditions of Employment of other Servants of the European Communities)

(2008/C 25/06)

Staff of the European institutions are hereby informed that the vacancy notice for the post of secretary-general of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) published in the English, French and German versions of the Official Journal of the European Union (OJ C 316 A, 28.12.2007) has been modified (see OJ C 25 A, 30.1.2008).

---