# Official Journal L 71/2014

| | ISSN 1977-0677
  doi:10.3000/19770677.L_2014.071.eng |
| --- | --- |
| Official Journal
  of the European Union | L 71 |
| | |
| English edition | Legislation | Volume 5712 March 2014 |

ISSN 1977-0677

doi:10.3000/19770677.L_2014.071.eng

Official Journal

of the European Union

L 71

English edition

Legislation

Volume 5712 March 2014

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| Contents | | II   Non-legislative acts | page |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | | REGULATIONS |
| | | Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 238/2014 of 11 March 2014 establishing the standard import values for determining the entry price of certain fruit and vegetables | 1 |
| | | DECISIONS |
| | * | Council Decision 2014/129/CFSP of 10 March 2014 promoting the European network of independent non-proliferation think tanks in support of the implementation of the EU Strategy against Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction | 3 |
| | * | Council Decision 2014/130/CFSP of 10 March 2014 extending the mandate of the European Union Special Representative for the Sahel | 14 |
| | | 2014/131/EU |
| | * | Commission Implementing Decision of 10 March 2014 on a financial contribution by the Union towards emergency measures to combat bluetongue in Germany in 2007
  (notified under document C(2014) 1444) | 18 |
| | | 2014/132/EU |
| | * | Commission Implementing Decision of 11 March 2014 setting the Union-wide performance targets for the air traffic management network and alert thresholds for the second reference period 2015-19 (
  1
  ) | 20 |

Contents

II   Non-legislative acts

page

REGULATIONS

Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 238/2014 of 11 March 2014 establishing the standard import values for determining the entry price of certain fruit and vegetables

1

DECISIONS

*

Council Decision 2014/129/CFSP of 10 March 2014 promoting the European network of independent non-proliferation think tanks in support of the implementation of the EU Strategy against Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction

3

*

Council Decision 2014/130/CFSP of 10 March 2014 extending the mandate of the European Union Special Representative for the Sahel

14

2014/131/EU

*

Commission Implementing Decision of 10 March 2014 on a financial contribution by the Union towards emergency measures to combat bluetongue in Germany in 2007
  (notified under document C(2014) 1444)

(notified under document C(2014) 1444)

18

2014/132/EU

*

Commission Implementing Decision of 11 March 2014 setting the Union-wide performance targets for the air traffic management network and alert thresholds for the second reference period 2015-19 (
  1
  )

1

20

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

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(1)   Text with EEA relevance

1

| EN | Acts whose titles are printed in light type are those relating to day-to-day management of agricultural matters, and are generally valid for a limited period.
  The titles of all other Acts are printed in bold type and preceded by an asterisk. |
| --- | --- |

EN

Acts whose titles are printed in light type are those relating to day-to-day management of agricultural matters, and are generally valid for a limited period.

The titles of all other Acts are printed in bold type and preceded by an asterisk.

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II Non-legislative acts

REGULATIONS

| 12.3.2014 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | L 71/1 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.3.2014

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

L 71/1

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COMMISSION IMPLEMENTING REGULATION (EU) No 238/2014

of 11 March 2014

establishing the standard import values for determining the entry price of certain fruit and vegetables

THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION,

Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

Having regard to Council Regulation (EC) No 1234/2007 of 22 October 2007 establishing a common organisation of agricultural markets and on specific provisions for certain agricultural products (Single CMO Regulation) (1),

Having regard to Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 543/2011 of 7 June 2011 laying down detailed rules for the application of Council Regulation (EC) No 1234/2007 in respect of the fruit and vegetables and processed fruit and vegetables sectors (2), and in particular Article 136(1) thereof,

Whereas:

| (1) | Implementing Regulation (EU) No 543/2011 lays down, pursuant to the outcome of the Uruguay Round multilateral trade negotiations, the criteria whereby the Commission fixes the standard values for imports from third countries, in respect of the products and periods stipulated in Annex XVI, Part A thereto. |
| --- | --- |

(1)

Implementing Regulation (EU) No 543/2011 lays down, pursuant to the outcome of the Uruguay Round multilateral trade negotiations, the criteria whereby the Commission fixes the standard values for imports from third countries, in respect of the products and periods stipulated in Annex XVI, Part A thereto.

| (2) | The standard import value is calculated each working day, in accordance with Article 136(1) of Implementing Regulation (EU) No 543/2011, taking into account variable daily data. Therefore this Regulation should enter into force on the day of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union, |
| --- | --- |

(2)

The standard import value is calculated each working day, in accordance with Article 136(1) of Implementing Regulation (EU) No 543/2011, taking into account variable daily data. Therefore this Regulation should enter into force on the day of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union,

HAS ADOPTED THIS REGULATION:

Article 1

The standard import values referred to in Article 136 of Implementing Regulation (EU) No 543/2011 are fixed in the Annex to this Regulation.

Article 2

This Regulation shall enter into force on the day of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.

This Regulation shall be binding in its entirety and directly applicable in all Member States.

Done at Brussels, 11 March 2014.

For the Commission, On behalf of the President,

Jerzy PLEWA

Director-General for Agriculture and Rural Development

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(1)  OJ L 299, 16.11.2007, p. 1.

1

(2)  OJ L 157, 15.6.2011, p. 1.

2

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ANNEX

Standard import values for determining the entry price of certain fruit and vegetables

| (EUR/100 kg) |
| --- |
| CN code | Third country code (1) | Standard import value |
| 0702 00 00 | MA | 78,5 |
| TN | 86,3 |
| TR | 92,8 |
| ZZ | 85,9 |
| 0707 00 05 | MA | 182,1 |
| TR | 157,2 |
| ZZ | 169,7 |
| 0709 91 00 | EG | 45,1 |
| ZZ | 45,1 |
| 0709 93 10 | MA | 39,1 |
| TR | 100,0 |
| ZZ | 69,6 |
| 0805 10 20 | EG | 46,8 |
| IL | 67,4 |
| MA | 50,0 |
| TN | 53,6 |
| TR | 61,4 |
| ZZ | 55,8 |
| 0805 50 10 | TR | 68,0 |
| ZZ | 68,0 |
| 0808 10 80 | CL | 134,9 |
| CN | 111,8 |
| MK | 30,8 |
| US | 207,8 |
| ZZ | 121,3 |
| 0808 30 90 | AR | 105,1 |
| CL | 188,7 |
| CN | 68,3 |
| TR | 158,2 |
| US | 132,7 |
| ZA | 99,5 |
| ZZ | 125,4 |

(EUR/100 kg)

CN code

Third country code (1)

Standard import value

0702 00 00

MA

78,5

TN

86,3

TR

92,8

ZZ

85,9

0707 00 05

MA

182,1

TR

157,2

ZZ

169,7

0709 91 00

EG

45,1

ZZ

45,1

0709 93 10

MA

39,1

TR

100,0

ZZ

69,6

0805 10 20

EG

46,8

IL

67,4

MA

50,0

TN

53,6

TR

61,4

ZZ

55,8

0805 50 10

TR

68,0

ZZ

68,0

0808 10 80

CL

134,9

CN

111,8

MK

30,8

US

207,8

ZZ

121,3

0808 30 90

AR

105,1

CL

188,7

CN

68,3

TR

158,2

US

132,7

ZA

99,5

ZZ

125,4

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(1)  Nomenclature of countries laid down by Commission Regulation (EC) No 1833/2006 (OJ L 354, 14.12.2006, p. 19). Code ‘ZZ’ stands for ‘of other origin’.

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DECISIONS

| 12.3.2014 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | L 71/3 |
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12.3.2014

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

L 71/3

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COUNCIL DECISION 2014/129/CFSP

of 10 March 2014

promoting the European network of independent non-proliferation think tanks in support of the implementation of the EU Strategy against Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction

THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,

Having regard to the Treaty on European Union, and in particular Articles 26(2) and 31(1) thereof,

Whereas:

| (1) | On 12 December 2003, the European Council adopted the EU Strategy against Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (hereinafter referred to as the ‘EU WMD Non-proliferation Strategy’), Chapter III of which contains a list of measures that need to be taken both within the Union and in third countries to combat such proliferation. |
| --- | --- |

(1)

On 12 December 2003, the European Council adopted the EU Strategy against Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (hereinafter referred to as the ‘EU WMD Non-proliferation Strategy’), Chapter III of which contains a list of measures that need to be taken both within the Union and in third countries to combat such proliferation.

| (2) | The Union is actively implementing the EU WMD Non-proliferation Strategy and giving effect to the measures listed in Chapter III thereof, such as developing the necessary structures within the Union. |
| --- | --- |

(2)

The Union is actively implementing the EU WMD Non-proliferation Strategy and giving effect to the measures listed in Chapter III thereof, such as developing the necessary structures within the Union.

| (3) | On 8 December 2008, the Council adopted its conclusions and a document entitled ‘New lines for action by the European Union in combating the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their delivery systems’ (hereinafter referred to as the ‘New Lines for Action’) which states that proliferation of WMD continues to constitute one of the greatest security challenges and that non-proliferation policy constitutes an essential part of the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP). |
| --- | --- |

(3)

On 8 December 2008, the Council adopted its conclusions and a document entitled ‘New lines for action by the European Union in combating the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their delivery systems’ (hereinafter referred to as the ‘New Lines for Action’) which states that proliferation of WMD continues to constitute one of the greatest security challenges and that non-proliferation policy constitutes an essential part of the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP).

| (4) | In the New Lines for Action, the Council calls on competent Council formations and bodies, the Commission, other institutions, and Member States to give a concrete follow-up to that document. |
| --- | --- |

(4)

In the New Lines for Action, the Council calls on competent Council formations and bodies, the Commission, other institutions, and Member States to give a concrete follow-up to that document.

| (5) | In the New Lines for Action, the Council underlines that action of the Union to prevent proliferation could benefit from the support provided by a non-governmental non-proliferation network, bringing together foreign policy institutions and research centres specialising in the Union's strategic areas while building on useful networks which already exist. Such a network could be extended to institutions in third countries with which the Union is conducting specific dialogues in connection with non-proliferation. |
| --- | --- |

(5)

In the New Lines for Action, the Council underlines that action of the Union to prevent proliferation could benefit from the support provided by a non-governmental non-proliferation network, bringing together foreign policy institutions and research centres specialising in the Union's strategic areas while building on useful networks which already exist. Such a network could be extended to institutions in third countries with which the Union is conducting specific dialogues in connection with non-proliferation.

| (6) | On 15 and 16 December 2005, the European Council adopted the EU Strategy to combat the illicit accumulation and trafficking of small arms and light weapons (SALW) and their ammunition (hereinafter referred to as the ‘EU SALW Strategy’) which sets the guidelines for the action of the Union in the field of SALW. The EU SALW Strategy considers that the illicit accumulation and trafficking of SALW and their ammunition pose a serious threat to international peace and security. |
| --- | --- |

(6)

On 15 and 16 December 2005, the European Council adopted the EU Strategy to combat the illicit accumulation and trafficking of small arms and light weapons (SALW) and their ammunition (hereinafter referred to as the ‘EU SALW Strategy’) which sets the guidelines for the action of the Union in the field of SALW. The EU SALW Strategy considers that the illicit accumulation and trafficking of SALW and their ammunition pose a serious threat to international peace and security.

| (7) | The EU SALW Strategy identifies among its objectives the need to foster effective multilateralism so as to forge mechanisms, whether international, regional or within the Union and its Member States, for countering the supply and destabilising spread of SALW and their ammunition. |
| --- | --- |

(7)

The EU SALW Strategy identifies among its objectives the need to foster effective multilateralism so as to forge mechanisms, whether international, regional or within the Union and its Member States, for countering the supply and destabilising spread of SALW and their ammunition.

| (8) | On 26 July 2010, the Council adopted Decision 2010/430/CFSP (1) which established the European network of independent non-proliferation think tanks and provided that the technical implementation of that Decision is to be carried out by the EU Non-Proliferation Consortium (hereinafter referred to as the ‘Consortium’). |
| --- | --- |

(8)

On 26 July 2010, the Council adopted Decision 2010/430/CFSP (1) which established the European network of independent non-proliferation think tanks and provided that the technical implementation of that Decision is to be carried out by the EU Non-Proliferation Consortium (hereinafter referred to as the ‘Consortium’).

| (9) | The choice of the Consortium as sole beneficiary of a grant in this case is justified because of the will of the Union, as supported by the Member States, to continue a fruitful cooperation with a network of European think-tanks that is contributing to the creation of a common European culture on non-proliferation and disarmament, as well as helping the Union to develop and shape its policies in these areas and increase Union visibility. The very nature of the Consortium, which owes its existence to the Union and depends entirely on Union support, makes 100 % financing necessary in this case. The Consortium has no independent financial resources or legal authority to raise other funds. Moreover, the Consortium has established, beyond the four managing think tanks, a network bringing together more than 60 think tanks and research centres combining almost the entire non-governmental expertise in the Union. |
| --- | --- |

(9)

The choice of the Consortium as sole beneficiary of a grant in this case is justified because of the will of the Union, as supported by the Member States, to continue a fruitful cooperation with a network of European think-tanks that is contributing to the creation of a common European culture on non-proliferation and disarmament, as well as helping the Union to develop and shape its policies in these areas and increase Union visibility. The very nature of the Consortium, which owes its existence to the Union and depends entirely on Union support, makes 100 % financing necessary in this case. The Consortium has no independent financial resources or legal authority to raise other funds. Moreover, the Consortium has established, beyond the four managing think tanks, a network bringing together more than 60 think tanks and research centres combining almost the entire non-governmental expertise in the Union.

| (10) | To date, the Consortium has organized two Union expert seminars, in Brussels in May 2011 and June 2013, and two major international non-proliferation conferences, in Brussels in February 2012 and September/October 2013, in addition to having 31 dedicated policy papers published on its website. The website was launched in Spring 2011 and has been regularly updated since then, including via the publication of a bi-monthly e-newsletter: nonproliferation.eu. More than 60 European independent think tanks have joined the Consortium network since its inception. |
| --- | --- |

(10)

To date, the Consortium has organized two Union expert seminars, in Brussels in May 2011 and June 2013, and two major international non-proliferation conferences, in Brussels in February 2012 and September/October 2013, in addition to having 31 dedicated policy papers published on its website. The website was launched in Spring 2011 and has been regularly updated since then, including via the publication of a bi-monthly e-newsletter: nonproliferation.eu. More than 60 European independent think tanks have joined the Consortium network since its inception.

| (11) | By Council Decisions 2010/799/CFSP (2) and 2012/422/CFSP (3), the Consortium was entrusted with the organization of two seminars to promote confidence building and in support of a process aimed at establishing a zone free of WMD and means of delivery in the Middle East, which were held in Brussels in July 2011 and November 2012. Furthermore, by Council Decision 2013/43/CFSP (4), the Consortium was entrusted with the organization of two closed seminars in order to facilitate the successful completion of the negotiation of an Arms Trade Treaty at the March 2013 UN Conference, |
| --- | --- |

(11)

By Council Decisions 2010/799/CFSP (2) and 2012/422/CFSP (3), the Consortium was entrusted with the organization of two seminars to promote confidence building and in support of a process aimed at establishing a zone free of WMD and means of delivery in the Middle East, which were held in Brussels in July 2011 and November 2012. Furthermore, by Council Decision 2013/43/CFSP (4), the Consortium was entrusted with the organization of two closed seminars in order to facilitate the successful completion of the negotiation of an Arms Trade Treaty at the March 2013 UN Conference,

HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:

Article 1

1.   For the purposes of contributing to the enhanced implementation of the EU WMD Non-proliferation Strategy, which is based on the principles of effective multilateralism, prevention and cooperation with third countries, the continued promotion and support of the European network of independent non-proliferation think tanks activities is hereby extended for 3 years to further the following objectives:

| (a) | to encourage political and security-related dialogue and long-term discussion of measures to combat the proliferation of WMD and their delivery systems within civil societies, and more particularly among experts, researchers and academics; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

to encourage political and security-related dialogue and long-term discussion of measures to combat the proliferation of WMD and their delivery systems within civil societies, and more particularly among experts, researchers and academics;

| (b) | to provide those participating in the relevant preparatory bodies of the Council with the opportunity to consult the network on issues related to non-proliferation and to enable the representatives of Member States to participate in the network's meetings; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

to provide those participating in the relevant preparatory bodies of the Council with the opportunity to consult the network on issues related to non-proliferation and to enable the representatives of Member States to participate in the network's meetings;

| (c) | to constitute a useful stepping stone for non-proliferation action by the Union and the international community, in particular by providing reports and/or recommendations to the representatives of the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (HR); |
| --- | --- |

(c)

to constitute a useful stepping stone for non-proliferation action by the Union and the international community, in particular by providing reports and/or recommendations to the representatives of the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (HR);

| (d) | to contribute to enhancing third countries' awareness of proliferation challenges and of the need to work in cooperation with the Union and in the context of multilateral fora, in particular the United Nations, to prevent, deter, halt and where possible, eliminate proliferation programmes of worldwide concern; |
| --- | --- |

(d)

to contribute to enhancing third countries' awareness of proliferation challenges and of the need to work in cooperation with the Union and in the context of multilateral fora, in particular the United Nations, to prevent, deter, halt and where possible, eliminate proliferation programmes of worldwide concern;

| (e) | to contribute to the development of expertise and institutional capacity in non-proliferation and disarmament matters in think tanks and governments in the Union and third countries. |
| --- | --- |

(e)

to contribute to the development of expertise and institutional capacity in non-proliferation and disarmament matters in think tanks and governments in the Union and third countries.

2.   In the light of the EU SALW Strategy, the scope of activities of the European network of independent non-proliferation think tanks shall not be limited to addressing questions related to the threats posed by the proliferation of WMD and their delivery systems, but shall also cover issues related to conventional weapons, including SALW. The inclusion of conventional weapons issues in the field of activity of the network will offer an outstanding tool for dialogue and recommendation on action of the Union in this area within the framework of the implementation of the EU SALW Strategy and the Union's policy on conventional weapons.

3.   In this context, the projects to be supported by the Union shall cover the following specific activities:

| (a) | providing means for the organisation of three annual consultative meetings and up to seven ad-hoc seminars for experts and practitioners on the full range of non-proliferation and disarmament issues covering both unconventional and conventional arms, with a view to submitting reports and/or recommendations to the representatives of the HR; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

providing means for the organisation of three annual consultative meetings and up to seven ad-hoc seminars for experts and practitioners on the full range of non-proliferation and disarmament issues covering both unconventional and conventional arms, with a view to submitting reports and/or recommendations to the representatives of the HR;

| (b) | setting up a Help-Desk Facility within the Consortium, to provide ad-hoc expertise on questions related to the full range of non-proliferation and disarmament issues covering both unconventional and conventional arms, for responses within a two-week time frame; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

setting up a Help-Desk Facility within the Consortium, to provide ad-hoc expertise on questions related to the full range of non-proliferation and disarmament issues covering both unconventional and conventional arms, for responses within a two-week time frame;

| (c) | providing means for the holding of three major annual conferences with third countries and civil society on non-proliferation and disarmament to promote internationally the EU WMD Non-proliferation Strategy and the EU SALW Strategy, and the role, in this field, of Union institutions and think tanks in the Union, with a view to raising the visibility of Union policies in this area and submitting reports and/or recommendations to the representatives of the HR; |
| --- | --- |

(c)

providing means for the holding of three major annual conferences with third countries and civil society on non-proliferation and disarmament to promote internationally the EU WMD Non-proliferation Strategy and the EU SALW Strategy, and the role, in this field, of Union institutions and think tanks in the Union, with a view to raising the visibility of Union policies in this area and submitting reports and/or recommendations to the representatives of the HR;

| (d) | providing means for the management and development of an Internet platform to facilitate contacts and foster research dialogue among the network of think tanks analysing issues related to the prevention of proliferation of WMD and conventional weapons, including SALW, as well as for the education of a new generation of experts on non-proliferation and disarmament; |
| --- | --- |

(d)

providing means for the management and development of an Internet platform to facilitate contacts and foster research dialogue among the network of think tanks analysing issues related to the prevention of proliferation of WMD and conventional weapons, including SALW, as well as for the education of a new generation of experts on non-proliferation and disarmament;

| (e) | providing means to raise awareness and develop expertise and institutional capacity in the area of non-proliferation in think tanks and governments in the Union and third countries; |
| --- | --- |

(e)

providing means to raise awareness and develop expertise and institutional capacity in the area of non-proliferation in think tanks and governments in the Union and third countries;

| (f) | addressing topics proposed by Member States and the European External Action Service (EEAS) in the overall Consortium research activities. |
| --- | --- |

(f)

addressing topics proposed by Member States and the European External Action Service (EEAS) in the overall Consortium research activities.

A detailed description of the projects is set out in the Annex.

Article 2

1.   The HR shall be responsible for the implementation of this Decision.

2.   Technical implementation of the projects covering the activities referred to in Article 1(3) shall be carried out by the EU Non-Proliferation Consortium based on la Fondation pour la Recherche Stratégique (FRS), the Peace Research Institute Frankfurt (HSFK/ PRIF), the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) and the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). The Consortium shall perform this task under the responsibility of the HR. For this purpose, the HR shall enter into the necessary arrangements with the Consortium.

3.   Member States and the EEAS shall propose priorities and topics of specific interest for assessment in the Consortium research programmes, to be addressed in working documents and seminars, in accordance with the policies of the Union.

Article 3

1.   The financial reference amount for the implementation of the projects covering the activities referred to in Article 1(3) shall be EUR 3 600 000.

2.   The expenditure financed by the amount set out in paragraph 1 shall be managed in accordance with the procedures and rules applicable to the general budget of the Union.

3.   The Commission shall supervise the proper management of the expenditure referred to in paragraph 1. For this purpose, it shall conclude a financing agreement with the Consortium. The agreement shall stipulate that the Consortium is to ensure visibility of the Union's contribution, appropriate to its size.

4.   The Commission shall endeavour to conclude the financing agreement referred to in paragraph 3 as soon as possible after the entry into force of this Decision. It shall inform the Council of any difficulties in that process and of the date of conclusion of the agreement.

Article 4

1.   The HR shall report to the Council on the implementation of this Decision on the basis of regular reports prepared by the Consortium. Those reports shall form the basis for the evaluation carried out by the Council.

2.   The Commission shall report on the financial aspects of the projects referred to in Article 1(3).

Article 5

1.   This Decision shall enter into force on the date of its adoption.

2.   This Decision shall expire 36 months after the date of conclusion of the financing agreement referred to in Article 3(3).

However, it shall expire 6 months after its entry into force if that financing agreement has not been concluded by that time.

Done at Brussels, 10 March 2014.

For the Council

The President

G. VROUTSIS

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(1)  Council Decision 2010/430/CFSP of 26 July 2010 establishing a European network of independent non-proliferation think tanks in support of the implementation of the EU Strategy against Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (OJ L 202, 4.8.2010, p. 5).

1

(2)  Council Decision 2010/799/CFSP of 13 December 2010 in support of a process of confidence-building leading to the establishment of a zone free of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery in the Middle East in support of the implementation of the EU Strategy against Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (OJ L 341, 23.12.2010, p. 27).

2

(3)  Council Decision 2012/422/CFSP of 23 July 2012 in support of a process leading to the establishment of a zone free of nuclear weapons and all other weapons of mass destruction in the Middle East (OJ L 196, 24.7.2012, p. 67).

3

(4)  Council Decision 2013/43/CFSP of 22 January 2013 on continued Union activities in support of the Arms Trade Treaty negotiations, in the framework of the European Security Strategy (OJ L 20, 23.1.2013, p. 53).

4

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ANNEX

THE EUROPEAN NETWORK OF INDEPENDENT NON-PROLIFERATION THINK TANKS IN SUPPORT OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE EU STRATEGY AGAINST PROLIFERATION OF WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION (EU WMD NON-PROLIFERATION STRATEGY)

1.   Objectives

The objective of this Decision is to confirm and further implement the policy recommendation, laid down by the Council on 8 December 2008 in a document entitled ‘New lines for action by the European Union in combating the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their delivery systems’. According to this document, the action of the Union to counter proliferation could benefit from the support provided by a non-governmental non-proliferation network, bringing together foreign policy institutions and research centres specialising in the Union's strategic areas while building on useful networks which already exist. Such a network could be extended to institutions in third countries with which the Union is conducting specific dialogues in connection with non-proliferation.

This network of independent non-proliferation think tanks would continue to encourage political and security-related dialogue and the long-term discussion of measures to combat the proliferation of WMD and their delivery systems and the inter-related issues of disarmament within civil societies, and more particularly among experts, researchers and academics.

The work of the network is to be extended to issues related to conventional weapons, including SALW, including measures to ensure the continuous implementation of the EU Strategy to combat the illicit accumulation and trafficking of SALW and their ammunition. The network will help to develop new facets of the Union's action to cover both the preventive and reactive dimensions of security issues related to conventional weapons, including the illicit trade and excessive accumulation of SALW and their ammunition, as foreseen by the relevant EU strategy. Preventing the illegal and unregulated trade of conventional weapons, including SALW, has also been recognised as a priority of the Union in the framework of the Arms Trade Treaty process.

The network could contribute to enhancing awareness of third countries of challenges related to WMD proliferation and conventional weapons, including the illicit trade and excessive accumulation of SALW and their ammunition, and of the need to work in cooperation with the Union and in the context of multilateral fora, in particular the United Nations, in order to prevent, deter, halt and where possible, eliminate proliferation programmes of concern worldwide and the illicit trade and excessive accumulation of SALW and their ammunition.

The Union wishes to support this network as follows:

| — | through organising regular Union seminars and, as necessary, ad-hoc meetings for diplomats and academic experts on salient events and issues in the realm of WMD and SALW non-proliferation and disarmament with a view to submitting reports and/or recommendations to the representatives of the HR; |
| --- | --- |

—

through organising regular Union seminars and, as necessary, ad-hoc meetings for diplomats and academic experts on salient events and issues in the realm of WMD and SALW non-proliferation and disarmament with a view to submitting reports and/or recommendations to the representatives of the HR;

| — | through organising major annual conferences and, as necessary, preparatory meetings with a view to submitting reports and/or recommendations to the representatives of the HR; |
| --- | --- |

—

through organising major annual conferences and, as necessary, preparatory meetings with a view to submitting reports and/or recommendations to the representatives of the HR;

| — | through further maintaining, managing and developing an internet platform and related social networks to facilitate contacts and foster research dialogue among the network of non-proliferation think tanks; |
| --- | --- |

—

through further maintaining, managing and developing an internet platform and related social networks to facilitate contacts and foster research dialogue among the network of non-proliferation think tanks;

| — | through facilitating competence and transfer of know-how on EU non-proliferation and disarmament policies across the Union and to third countries. |
| --- | --- |

—

through facilitating competence and transfer of know-how on EU non-proliferation and disarmament policies across the Union and to third countries.

2.   Organisation of the network

The network is open to all relevant think tanks and research institutes from the Union and associated states and is fully respectful of the diversity of opinion within the Union.

The network will continue to facilitate contacts between non-governmental experts, Member States' representatives and the institutions of the Union. The network will stand ready to engage with non-governmental actors from third countries in line with the EU WMD and SALW Strategies, which are based on the concepts of multilateralism and international cooperation. The network's mandate covers non-proliferation of WMD, their delivery systems, disarmament, and issues related to conventional weapons, including SALW.

The participants in relevant preparatory bodies of the Council (CODUN/CONOP/COARM etc.) will be able to consult the network on issues related to non-proliferation and conventional weapons, including SALW, and its representatives may attend the network's meetings. The network's meetings may be organised back to back with the working group meetings, if feasible.

The network will continue to be led by the EU Non-Proliferation Consortium, which has been formed by FRS, HSFK/PRIF, IISS and SIPRI and which will be entrusted with the management of the project, in close cooperation with the representatives of the HR.

The Consortium, in consultation with the representatives of the HR and Member States, will invite participants who have expertise in non-proliferation and disarmament policies of WMD and conventional weapons to expert seminars and annual major conferences and to share their publications and activities on the dedicated website.

3.   Description of the projects

3.1.   Project 1: Organisation of three annual consultative meetings and up to seven ad hoc seminars for diplomats and academic experts with a report and/or recommendations

3.1.1.   Purpose of the project

The objective of the annual consultative meetings and ad hoc seminars is to promote a security-related dialogue between Union experts, officials and academics, on current challenges in the fields of non-proliferation and disarmament of WMD, their delivery systems and conventional weapons, including SALW. The seminars should furthermore advance the cooperation within the European network of independent non-proliferation think tanks that are based in the Union Member States.

3.1.2.   Results of the project

| — | Exchange of information and analysis regarding current proliferation trends among policy practitioners and academic experts from the Member States, as well as specialized staff from the EEAS and institutions of the Union; |
| --- | --- |

—

Exchange of information and analysis regarding current proliferation trends among policy practitioners and academic experts from the Member States, as well as specialized staff from the EEAS and institutions of the Union;

| — | Discussion on the best ways and means to implement Union policies against proliferation; |
| --- | --- |

—

Discussion on the best ways and means to implement Union policies against proliferation;

| — | Foster a European network of independent non-proliferation think tanks; |
| --- | --- |

—

Foster a European network of independent non-proliferation think tanks;

| — | Provide constructive feedback to the Union on its strategies against the proliferation of WMD and SALW by independent Union think tanks, and suggestions from practitioners to the think-tanks on most policy-relevant topics for further research; |
| --- | --- |

—

Provide constructive feedback to the Union on its strategies against the proliferation of WMD and SALW by independent Union think tanks, and suggestions from practitioners to the think-tanks on most policy-relevant topics for further research;

| — | Identify relevant issues in the field of non-proliferation and disarmament for policy-oriented reports; |
| --- | --- |

—

Identify relevant issues in the field of non-proliferation and disarmament for policy-oriented reports;

| — | Produce policy-oriented reports together with a set of action-oriented recommendations to the representatives of the HR. These reports would be disseminated to the relevant institutions of the Union and the Member States. |
| --- | --- |

—

Produce policy-oriented reports together with a set of action-oriented recommendations to the representatives of the HR. These reports would be disseminated to the relevant institutions of the Union and the Member States.

3.1.3.   Description of the project

The project provides for the organisation of three annual consultative meetings and up to seven ad hoc expert seminars with the preparation of associated reports and/or recommendations.

The agenda of these events shall be prepared in close cooperation with the Council's CFSP working groups in the fields of non-proliferation and disarmament (CODUN/CONOP/CODUN Space), of SALW and conventional arms transfers (COARM and COARM ATT). The seminars should address both short-term and mid-term challenges for the Union in the fields of non-proliferation and disarmament in the following weapon categories: WMD and their delivery vehicles, conventional weapons including SALW, and new types of weapons and delivery systems. They should provide especially an opportunity for Union decision-makers to focus on longer-range challenges and trends in the field of these weapons, and on other issues, which exceed their ordinary day-to-day business.

The annual consultative meetings shall last 1,5 days and foresee the participation of up to 100 individuals from Union think tanks, Member States and institutions of the Union, specialised in non-proliferation and conventional weapons issues, including SALW. These seminars should serve mainly a consultative purpose between the Union non-proliferation think tanks, the Union and its Member States.

The ad hoc seminars shall last up to 2 days and foresee the participation of up to 45 individuals, to be determined on a case-by-case basis. These seminars should serve notably a consultative purpose between the Union non-proliferation think tanks, the Union and its Member States, on an ad hoc basis, in order to address salient events and Union policy options, as well as provide an opportunity for the Union think tanks, the Member States and the institutions of the Union to outreach targeted audiences inside and outside the Union.

The annual consultative meetings should be held in Brussels while up to three ad hoc expert seminars could be held outside the Union.

3.2.   Project 2: Organisation of an annual major conference with a report and/or recommendations

3.2.1.   Purpose of the project

The annual major non-proliferation and disarmament conferences, with the participation of governmental experts and independent think tanks and other specialists from academia from the Union and associated states as well as third countries, will discuss and identify further measures to combat the proliferation of WMD and their delivery systems and inter-related disarmament objectives, as well as address challenges related to conventional weapons, including countering the illicit trade and excessive accumulation of SALW and their ammunition. As the flagship event of the project, the annual conference will enhance international attention of the EU WMD Non-proliferation Strategy and its implementation efforts by the institutions of the Union and the related work of independent think tanks and academic experts in Member States.

The annual conferences will also serve to foster the role and cohesion of European think tanks specialising in non-proliferation-related fields and will help to enhance capacity in these and other institutions, including in areas of the world without great depth of expertise in non-proliferation.

The annual conferences and any preparatory meetings will address non-proliferation-related issues of topical relevance to the work of the EEAS. Based on these discussions and other work overseen by the Consortium, policy-oriented reports will be produced together with a set of action-oriented recommendations to the representatives of the HR. The report would be disseminated to the relevant institutions of the Union and the Member States and made available online.

3.2.2.   Results of the project

| — | Establish a major European-led international non-proliferation and disarmament conference that would become the key venue for promoting strategic discussion of measures to combat the proliferation of WMD and their delivery systems and inter-related disarmament objectives to address challenges related to conventional weapons, including countering the illicit trade and excessive accumulation of SALW and their ammunition; |
| --- | --- |

—

Establish a major European-led international non-proliferation and disarmament conference that would become the key venue for promoting strategic discussion of measures to combat the proliferation of WMD and their delivery systems and inter-related disarmament objectives to address challenges related to conventional weapons, including countering the illicit trade and excessive accumulation of SALW and their ammunition;

| — | Increase the visibility and awareness of Union policies in the field of WMD and SALW non-proliferation and in the field of chemical, biological, radiological or nuclear (CBRN) action among the government officials, academia and civil society of third countries; |
| --- | --- |

—

Increase the visibility and awareness of Union policies in the field of WMD and SALW non-proliferation and in the field of chemical, biological, radiological or nuclear (CBRN) action among the government officials, academia and civil society of third countries;

| — | Promote the role and cohesion of the European network of independent non-proliferation think tanks and the Union's role in this field, and build up non-proliferation expertise in countries where it is insufficient, including in third countries; |
| --- | --- |

—

Promote the role and cohesion of the European network of independent non-proliferation think tanks and the Union's role in this field, and build up non-proliferation expertise in countries where it is insufficient, including in third countries;

| — | Submit policy-oriented reports and/or action-oriented recommendations that would enhance the implementation of the EU WMD and SALW Strategies and constitute a useful stepping stone for non-proliferation and conventional weapons-related action by the Union and the international community; |
| --- | --- |

—

Submit policy-oriented reports and/or action-oriented recommendations that would enhance the implementation of the EU WMD and SALW Strategies and constitute a useful stepping stone for non-proliferation and conventional weapons-related action by the Union and the international community;

| — | Increase the awareness and knowledge of the institutions of the Union, of Member States, civil society and third countries about threats related to WMD and their means of delivery, allowing them to improve anticipation. |
| --- | --- |

—

Increase the awareness and knowledge of the institutions of the Union, of Member States, civil society and third countries about threats related to WMD and their means of delivery, allowing them to improve anticipation.

3.2.3.   Description of the project

The project provides for the organisation of annual major conferences, with preparatory meetings as necessary, and the preparation of associated reports and/or recommendations:

| — | A yearly conference of 1,5 days held in Brussels, with the participation of up to 300 experts from think tanks and academia and governments from the Union and associated states and third countries, specialised in non-proliferation, disarmament, arms control and conventional weapons issues, including SALW; |
| --- | --- |

—

A yearly conference of 1,5 days held in Brussels, with the participation of up to 300 experts from think tanks and academia and governments from the Union and associated states and third countries, specialised in non-proliferation, disarmament, arms control and conventional weapons issues, including SALW;

| — | Attention to development of ‘next generation’ specialists including from countries outside Europe and North America, who will be invited to an extra day before or after the conference for specialised training and exposure to relevant EU institutions; |
| --- | --- |

—

Attention to development of ‘next generation’ specialists including from countries outside Europe and North America, who will be invited to an extra day before or after the conference for specialised training and exposure to relevant EU institutions;

| — | Policy-oriented reports and/or action-oriented recommendations that would boost the implementation of the EU WMD and SALW Strategies. |
| --- | --- |

—

Policy-oriented reports and/or action-oriented recommendations that would boost the implementation of the EU WMD and SALW Strategies.

3.3.   Project 3: Setting up and management of a Help-Desk facility

3.3.1.   Purpose of the project

The setting up and management of a Help-Desk Facility within the Consortium, to provide ad-hoc expertise to questions related to the full range of non-proliferation and disarmament issues, covering both unconventional and conventional arms, will inform and facilitate the shaping of EEAS policy action in relation to specific and urgent topics.

3.3.2.   Results of the project

| — | Manage ad-hoc research requests, with responses within a two-week time frame, on specific issues requested by the EEAS; |
| --- | --- |

—

Manage ad-hoc research requests, with responses within a two-week time frame, on specific issues requested by the EEAS;

| — | Promote ad-hoc topic-specific dialogue between the Consortium think tanks and the EEAS; |
| --- | --- |

—

Promote ad-hoc topic-specific dialogue between the Consortium think tanks and the EEAS;

| — | Allow the EEAS to build on the ad-hoc expertise and research-dedicated resources of the Consortium for short-time and occasional requests. |
| --- | --- |

—

Allow the EEAS to build on the ad-hoc expertise and research-dedicated resources of the Consortium for short-time and occasional requests.

3.3.3.   Description of the project

The project will provide up to twenty 5-10 pages experts papers within a two week time frame, on current non-proliferation and disarmament issues requested by the EEAS, based on a review of existing academic literature (not original research).

3.4.   Project 4: Management and development of an internet platform

3.4.1.   Purpose of the project

The maintenance and the development of an internet website will facilitate inter-sessional contacts between the network meetings and foster research dialogue among the non-proliferation think tanks. The Union's institutions and the Member States could also benefit from a dedicated website where network participants are free to exchange information, share their ideas and to publish their studies on non-proliferation of WMD and their means of delivery and conventional weapons issues, including SALW. The website will continue to be accompanied by an e-newsletter. The project will provide an online follow-up to the events and a window for European research. It will contribute to efficient dissemination of research results among the think tank community and governmental circles. This will lead to better anticipation and knowledge of threats linked to the proliferation of WMD and their means of delivery, and conventional weapons, including the illicit trade and excessive accumulation of SALW and their ammunition.

3.4.2.   Results of the project

| — | Manage a platform where non-proliferation think tanks can continuously share their independent views and analysis on WMD proliferation and conventional weapons issues, including SALW; |
| --- | --- |

—

Manage a platform where non-proliferation think tanks can continuously share their independent views and analysis on WMD proliferation and conventional weapons issues, including SALW;

| — | Expand, manage and update the existing network of independent think tanks; |
| --- | --- |

—

Expand, manage and update the existing network of independent think tanks;

| — | Promote a better understanding of Union strategies against the proliferation of WMD and SALW within civil society and serve as an interface between the Union and the network of think tanks; |
| --- | --- |

—

Promote a better understanding of Union strategies against the proliferation of WMD and SALW within civil society and serve as an interface between the Union and the network of think tanks;

| — | Allow the permanent free download of documents from the network's meetings and from independent think tanks who may wish to share their research results without financial compensation; |
| --- | --- |

—

Allow the permanent free download of documents from the network's meetings and from independent think tanks who may wish to share their research results without financial compensation;

| — | Increase awareness and knowledge of the institutions of the Union, the Member States, civil society and third countries about threats related to conventional weapons, WMD and their means of delivery, allowing them to improve anticipation. |
| --- | --- |

—

Increase awareness and knowledge of the institutions of the Union, the Member States, civil society and third countries about threats related to conventional weapons, WMD and their means of delivery, allowing them to improve anticipation.

3.4.3.   Description of the project

| — | The use of a social network-service type of technology, when feasible and appropriate, could be developed in order to allow active online communication and information exchange between the network participants in a familiar environment; |
| --- | --- |

—

The use of a social network-service type of technology, when feasible and appropriate, could be developed in order to allow active online communication and information exchange between the network participants in a familiar environment;

| — | The Consortium, in charge of the project, will be responsible for web hosting, web design and technical maintenance of the website; |
| --- | --- |

—

The Consortium, in charge of the project, will be responsible for web hosting, web design and technical maintenance of the website;

| — | Union policies relating to WMD proliferation and conventional weapons issues, including SALW will be followed and supported by appropriate documentation on a regular basis; |
| --- | --- |

—

Union policies relating to WMD proliferation and conventional weapons issues, including SALW will be followed and supported by appropriate documentation on a regular basis;

| — | Publications of the Consortium will be promoted and supported by specific historical records; |
| --- | --- |

—

Publications of the Consortium will be promoted and supported by specific historical records;

| — | Conferences organised by the Consortium will be promoted and relayed on the website (background papers, agenda, presentations, video recording of open meeting when appropriate); |
| --- | --- |

—

Conferences organised by the Consortium will be promoted and relayed on the website (background papers, agenda, presentations, video recording of open meeting when appropriate);

| — | An e-newsletter will be published on a bi-monthly basis in order to cover non-proliferation institutional news within the Union and to follow the academic work of the network's research centres; |
| --- | --- |

—

An e-newsletter will be published on a bi-monthly basis in order to cover non-proliferation institutional news within the Union and to follow the academic work of the network's research centres;

| — | Special reports will be published on a monthly basis on topical subjects relating to WMD proliferation and conventional weapons issues, including SALW. |
| --- | --- |

—

Special reports will be published on a monthly basis on topical subjects relating to WMD proliferation and conventional weapons issues, including SALW.

3.5.   Project 5: Publications

3.5.1.   Purpose of the project

| — | To provide up to twenty policy papers on topics related to non-proliferation of WMD, their delivery systems, SALW, and disarmament; |
| --- | --- |

—

To provide up to twenty policy papers on topics related to non-proliferation of WMD, their delivery systems, SALW, and disarmament;

| — | To provide information and analysis that can feed a political and security related dialogue on measures to combat the proliferation of WMD and their delivery systems, primarily by experts, researchers and academics; |
| --- | --- |

—

To provide information and analysis that can feed a political and security related dialogue on measures to combat the proliferation of WMD and their delivery systems, primarily by experts, researchers and academics;

| — | To provide a resource that the participants in the relevant preparatory bodies of the Council can use to inform their discussion of EU non-proliferation policy and practice; |
| --- | --- |

—

To provide a resource that the participants in the relevant preparatory bodies of the Council can use to inform their discussion of EU non-proliferation policy and practice;

| — | To provide ideas, information and analysis that can assist in the development of non-proliferation actions at Union level. |
| --- | --- |

—

To provide ideas, information and analysis that can assist in the development of non-proliferation actions at Union level.

3.5.2.   Results of the project

| — | To enhance political and security related dialogue on measures to combat the proliferation of WMD and their delivery systems, primarily by experts, researchers and academics; |
| --- | --- |

—

To enhance political and security related dialogue on measures to combat the proliferation of WMD and their delivery systems, primarily by experts, researchers and academics;

| — | To increase the awareness, knowledge and understanding within civil societies and governments of issues related to EU non-proliferation and disarmament policies; |
| --- | --- |

—

To increase the awareness, knowledge and understanding within civil societies and governments of issues related to EU non-proliferation and disarmament policies;

| — | To provide political and/or operational policy options to the HR, the Union's institutions and the Member States; |
| --- | --- |

—

To provide political and/or operational policy options to the HR, the Union's institutions and the Member States;

| — | To feed ideas, information and analysis that can assist in the development of non-proliferation actions at Union level. |
| --- | --- |

—

To feed ideas, information and analysis that can assist in the development of non-proliferation actions at Union level.

3.5.3.   Description of the project

The project provides for the preparation and publication of up to twenty policy papers. The policy papers will be prepared or commissioned by the Consortium and do not necessarily represent the views of the Union's institutions or the Member States.

The policy papers will cover the topics under the mandate of the Consortium. Every paper will frame political and/or operational policy options.

The policy papers will use a format and style that makes them accessible to target audiences and user-friendly.

All policy papers will be published on the website of the Consortium.

3.6.   Project 6: Education

3.6.1.   Purpose of the project

| — | To build capacity in the next generation of scholars and practitioners in non-proliferation policy and programming; |
| --- | --- |

—

To build capacity in the next generation of scholars and practitioners in non-proliferation policy and programming;

| — | To enhance the in-depth knowledge of EU non-proliferation and disarmament policies across the Union and in third countries; |
| --- | --- |

—

To enhance the in-depth knowledge of EU non-proliferation and disarmament policies across the Union and in third countries;

| — | To build networks of young practitioners and academics at the regional levels where the Union has a strong interest in non-proliferation; |
| --- | --- |

—

To build networks of young practitioners and academics at the regional levels where the Union has a strong interest in non-proliferation;

| — | To renew and expand the expertise on WMD and SALW issues within the Union and in Partner Countries; |
| --- | --- |

—

To renew and expand the expertise on WMD and SALW issues within the Union and in Partner Countries;

| — | To provide the institutions of the Union, Member States and the EU non-proliferation network with fresh ideas and analysis on non-proliferation. |
| --- | --- |

—

To provide the institutions of the Union, Member States and the EU non-proliferation network with fresh ideas and analysis on non-proliferation.

3.6.2.   Results of the project

| — | Laying the foundations for the creation of an online education tool with an available model-curriculum on non-proliferation and disarmament issues to become operational 24 months after the starting of the contract; |
| --- | --- |

—

Laying the foundations for the creation of an online education tool with an available model-curriculum on non-proliferation and disarmament issues to become operational 24 months after the starting of the contract;

| — | Enhanced capacity in the next generation of scholars and practitioners in non-proliferation policy and programming; |
| --- | --- |

—

Enhanced capacity in the next generation of scholars and practitioners in non-proliferation policy and programming;

| — | Increased in-depth knowledge of EU non-proliferation and disarmament policies across the Union and in third countries; |
| --- | --- |

—

Increased in-depth knowledge of EU non-proliferation and disarmament policies across the Union and in third countries;

| — | The creation of networks of young practitioners and academics and the facilitation of practical cooperation; |
| --- | --- |

—

The creation of networks of young practitioners and academics and the facilitation of practical cooperation;

| — | Increased expertise on WMD and SALW non-proliferation and disarmament issues within the Union and in third countries; |
| --- | --- |

—

Increased expertise on WMD and SALW non-proliferation and disarmament issues within the Union and in third countries;

| — | Fresh input to Union institutions, Member States, Partner Countries and the EU non-proliferation network on non-proliferation. |
| --- | --- |

—

Fresh input to Union institutions, Member States, Partner Countries and the EU non-proliferation network on non-proliferation.

3.6.3.   Description of the project

The project provides for internship organised by the Consortium for up to 48 graduate students or young diplomats, each for a period up to three months. The internship will combine lectures, discussion sessions, structured reading, and project integration based in at least two of the institutes of the Consortium. The curriculum will combine shorter modules in order to be as flexible as necessary. All students will be invited to the conferences and seminars organised by the Consortium.

The Project will ultimately aim at laying the foundations for the creation of an online education tool with an available model-curriculum on non-proliferation and disarmament issues. The online education tool shall cover the whole spectrum of conventional and non-conventional arms issues and be adaptable for different target audiences (young diplomats, journalists, graduate and postgraduate students, from within and outside of Europe). Depending on the sensitivity of the content, appropriate security clearances might be required. The online education tool should also allow the integration into university Master Programmes and have a typical length of 15 comprehensive lessons. This is the equivalent to a one-semester graduate course for credit and covers as well the requirements for other audiences.

4.   Duration

The total estimated duration of the implementation of the projects is 36 months.

5.   Beneficiaries

5.1.   Direct beneficiaries

Proliferation of WMD by both states and non-state actors has been identified in the European Security Strategy and in the EU strategy against the proliferation of WMD as potentially the greatest threat to security of the Union. Similarly the EU strategy against the proliferation of SALW recognised that the illicit trade and excessive accumulation of SALW and their ammunition poses a serious threat to international peace and security. The suggested projects serve the purposes of the CFSP and contribute to meeting the strategic objectives laid down in the European Security Strategy.

5.2.   Indirect beneficiaries

The indirect beneficiaries of the projects are:

| (a) | independent think tanks and academics specialised in non-proliferation and conventional weapons issues, including SALW, from the Union and third countries; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

independent think tanks and academics specialised in non-proliferation and conventional weapons issues, including SALW, from the Union and third countries;

| (b) | institutions of the Union, including educational institutions, students and all other recipients of the online education tool; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

institutions of the Union, including educational institutions, students and all other recipients of the online education tool;

| (c) | Member States; |
| --- | --- |

(c)

Member States;

| (d) | third countries. |
| --- | --- |

(d)

third countries.

6.   Third party participants

The projects will be financed in their entirety by this Decision. Experts from the network may be considered as third party participants. They will work in accordance with their standard rules.

7.   Procedural aspects, coordination and the Steering Committee

The Steering Committee for this project will be composed of a representative of the HR and of the implementing entity referred to in paragraph 8 of this Annex. The Steering Committee will review the implementation of this Decision regularly, at least once every 6 months, including by the use of electronic means of communication.

8.   Implementing entity

Technical implementation of this Decision will be entrusted to the Consortium, which will perform its task under the control of the HR. In carrying out its activities, the Consortium will cooperate with the HR, the Member States, other State Parties, and international organisations, as appropriate.

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| 12.3.2014 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | L 71/14 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.3.2014

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

L 71/14

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COUNCIL DECISION 2014/130/CFSP

of 10 March 2014

extending the mandate of the European Union Special Representative for the Sahel

THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,

Having regard to the Treaty on European Union and, in particular Article 31(2) and Article 33 thereof,

Having regard to the proposal from the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy,

Whereas:

| (1) | On 18 March 2013, the Council adopted Decision 2013/133/CFSP (1) appointing Mr Michel Dominique REVEYRAND – DE MENTHON as the European Union Special Representative (EUSR) for the Sahel. The EUSR's mandate is due to expire on 28 February 2014. |
| --- | --- |

(1)

On 18 March 2013, the Council adopted Decision 2013/133/CFSP (1) appointing Mr Michel Dominique REVEYRAND – DE MENTHON as the European Union Special Representative (EUSR) for the Sahel. The EUSR's mandate is due to expire on 28 February 2014.

| (2) | The mandate of the EUSR should be extended for a further period of 12 months. |
| --- | --- |

(2)

The mandate of the EUSR should be extended for a further period of 12 months.

| (3) | The EUSR will implement his mandate in the context of a situation which may deteriorate and could impede the achievement of the objectives of the Union's external action as set out in Article 21 of the Treaty, |
| --- | --- |

(3)

The EUSR will implement his mandate in the context of a situation which may deteriorate and could impede the achievement of the objectives of the Union's external action as set out in Article 21 of the Treaty,

HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:

Article 1

European Union Special Representative

1.   The mandate of Mr Michel Dominique REVEYRAND – DE MENTHON as the EUSR for the Sahel is hereby extended for the period from 1 March 2014 to 28 February 2015. The mandate of the EUSR may be terminated earlier, if the Council so decides, on a proposal of the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (HR).

2.   For the purposes of the EUSR's mandate, the Sahel is defined as comprising the primary focus of the EU Strategy for Security and Development in the Sahel (the ‘Strategy’), namely Mali, Mauritania and Niger. For issues with broader regional implications, the EUSR shall engage with other countries and regional or international entities beyond the Sahel, as appropriate.

3.   In view of the need for a regional approach to the inter-related challenges facing the region, the EUSR for the Sahel shall work in close consultation with other relevant EUSRs, including the EUSR for the Southern Mediterranean region, the EUSR for Human Rights and the EUSR to the African Union.

Article 2

Policy objectives

1.   The mandate of the EUSR shall be based on the policy objective of the Union in relation to the Sahel to contribute actively to regional and international efforts to achieve lasting peace, security and development in the region. The EUSR shall furthermore aim to enhance the quality, intensity and impact of the Union's multi-faceted engagement in the Sahel.

2.   The EUSR shall contribute to developing and implementing the Union approach encompassing all aspects of Union action, in particular in the political, security and development areas, including the Strategy, and to coordinating all relevant instruments for Union actions.

3.   Initial priority shall be given to Mali and to its long-term stabilisation and to the regional dimensions of the conflict there.

4.   Regarding Mali, the Union's policy objectives aim, through the coordinated and effective use of all its instruments, to promote a return for Mali and its people to a path of peace, reconciliation, security and development. Due attention shall also be paid to Burkina Faso and Niger, particularly looking ahead to elections in those countries.

Article 3

Mandate

1.   In order to achieve the Union's policy objectives in relation to the Sahel, the mandate of the EUSR shall be to:

| (a) | actively contribute to the implementation, coordination and further development of the Union's comprehensive approach to the regional crisis, on the basis of its Strategy, with a view to enhancing the overall coherence and effectiveness of Union activities in the Sahel, in particular in Mali; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

actively contribute to the implementation, coordination and further development of the Union's comprehensive approach to the regional crisis, on the basis of its Strategy, with a view to enhancing the overall coherence and effectiveness of Union activities in the Sahel, in particular in Mali;

| (b) | engage with all relevant stakeholders of the region, governments, regional authorities, regional and international organisations, civil society and diasporas, with a view to furthering the Union's objectives and contribute to a better understanding of the role of the Union in the Sahel; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

engage with all relevant stakeholders of the region, governments, regional authorities, regional and international organisations, civil society and diasporas, with a view to furthering the Union's objectives and contribute to a better understanding of the role of the Union in the Sahel;

| (c) | represent the Union in relevant regional and international fora, including the Support and Follow-Up Group on the situation in Mali, and ensure visibility for Union support to crisis management and conflict prevention, including the European Union military mission to contribute to the training of the Malian Armed Forces (EUTM Mali) and the European Union CSDP mission in Niger (EUCAP Sahel Niger); |
| --- | --- |

(c)

represent the Union in relevant regional and international fora, including the Support and Follow-Up Group on the situation in Mali, and ensure visibility for Union support to crisis management and conflict prevention, including the European Union military mission to contribute to the training of the Malian Armed Forces (EUTM Mali) and the European Union CSDP mission in Niger (EUCAP Sahel Niger);

| (d) | maintain close cooperation with the United Nations (UN), in particular the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for West Africa and the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Mali, the African Union (AU), in particular the AU High Representative for Mali and the Sahel, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and other leading national, regional and international stakeholders including other Special Envoys for the Sahel, as well as with the relevant bodies in the Maghreb area; |
| --- | --- |

(d)

maintain close cooperation with the United Nations (UN), in particular the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for West Africa and the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Mali, the African Union (AU), in particular the AU High Representative for Mali and the Sahel, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and other leading national, regional and international stakeholders including other Special Envoys for the Sahel, as well as with the relevant bodies in the Maghreb area;

| (e) | closely follow the regional and trans-boundary dimensions of the crisis, including terrorism, organised crime, arms smuggling, human trafficking, drug trafficking, refugee and migration flows and related financial flows; in close cooperation with the EU Counter-Terrorism Coordinator, contribute to the further implementation of the EU Counter-Terrorism Strategy; |
| --- | --- |

(e)

closely follow the regional and trans-boundary dimensions of the crisis, including terrorism, organised crime, arms smuggling, human trafficking, drug trafficking, refugee and migration flows and related financial flows; in close cooperation with the EU Counter-Terrorism Coordinator, contribute to the further implementation of the EU Counter-Terrorism Strategy;

| (f) | maintain regular high level political contacts with the countries in the region affected by terrorism and international crime in order to ensure a coherent and comprehensive approach and to ensure the Union's key role in the international efforts to fight terrorism and international crime. This includes the Union's active support to regional capacity-building in the security sector, and ensuring that the root causes of terrorism and international crime in the Sahel are adequately addressed; |
| --- | --- |

(f)

maintain regular high level political contacts with the countries in the region affected by terrorism and international crime in order to ensure a coherent and comprehensive approach and to ensure the Union's key role in the international efforts to fight terrorism and international crime. This includes the Union's active support to regional capacity-building in the security sector, and ensuring that the root causes of terrorism and international crime in the Sahel are adequately addressed;

| (g) | closely follow the political and security consequences of humanitarian crises in the region; |
| --- | --- |

(g)

closely follow the political and security consequences of humanitarian crises in the region;

| (h) | with regard to Mali, contribute to regional and international efforts to facilitate the resolution of the crisis in Mali, in particular a full return to constitutional normality and governance throughout the territory and a credible national inclusive dialogue leading to a sustainable political settlement; |
| --- | --- |

(h)

with regard to Mali, contribute to regional and international efforts to facilitate the resolution of the crisis in Mali, in particular a full return to constitutional normality and governance throughout the territory and a credible national inclusive dialogue leading to a sustainable political settlement;

| (i) | promote institution building, security sector reform and long-term peace building and reconciliation in Mali; |
| --- | --- |

(i)

promote institution building, security sector reform and long-term peace building and reconciliation in Mali;

| (j) | contribute to the implementation in the region of the Union's policies relating to human rights in cooperation with the EUSR for Human Rights, including the EU Guidelines on human rights, in particular the EU Guidelines on Children and Armed Conflict, as well as the EU Guidelines on violence against women and girls and combating all forms of discrimination against them, and the Union's policies relating to women, peace and security, including by monitoring and reporting on developments, as well as formulating recommendations in this regard, and maintain regular contacts with the relevant authorities in Mali and in the region, the Office of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and the human rights defenders and observers in the region; |
| --- | --- |

(j)

contribute to the implementation in the region of the Union's policies relating to human rights in cooperation with the EUSR for Human Rights, including the EU Guidelines on human rights, in particular the EU Guidelines on Children and Armed Conflict, as well as the EU Guidelines on violence against women and girls and combating all forms of discrimination against them, and the Union's policies relating to women, peace and security, including by monitoring and reporting on developments, as well as formulating recommendations in this regard, and maintain regular contacts with the relevant authorities in Mali and in the region, the Office of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and the human rights defenders and observers in the region;

| (k) | follow up and report on compliance with relevant resolutions of the UN Security Council (UNSCRs), in particular UNSCRs 2056 (2012), 2071 (2012), 2085 (2012) and 2100 (2013). |
| --- | --- |

(k)

follow up and report on compliance with relevant resolutions of the UN Security Council (UNSCRs), in particular UNSCRs 2056 (2012), 2071 (2012), 2085 (2012) and 2100 (2013).

2.   For the purpose of the fulfilment of his mandate, the EUSR shall, inter alia:

| (a) | advise and report on the formulation of Union positions in regional and international fora, as appropriate, in order to proactively promote and strengthen the Union's comprehensive approach towards the crisis in the Sahel; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

advise and report on the formulation of Union positions in regional and international fora, as appropriate, in order to proactively promote and strengthen the Union's comprehensive approach towards the crisis in the Sahel;

| (b) | maintain an overview of all activities of the Union and cooperate closely with relevant Union delegations. |
| --- | --- |

(b)

maintain an overview of all activities of the Union and cooperate closely with relevant Union delegations.

Article 4

Implementation of the mandate

1.   The EUSR shall be responsible for the implementation of the mandate acting under the authority of the HR.

2.   The Political and Security Committee (PSC) shall maintain a privileged link with the EUSR and shall be the EUSR's primary point of contact with the Council. The PSC shall provide the EUSR with strategic guidance and political direction within the framework of the mandate, without prejudice to the responsibilities of the HR.

3.   The EUSR shall work in close coordination with the European External Action Service (EEAS) and the relevant departments thereof, in particular with the West Africa Directorate.

Article 5

Financing

1.   The financial reference amount intended to cover the expenditure related to the mandate of the EUSR in the period from 1 March 2014 to 28 February 2015 shall be EUR 1 350 000.

2.   The expenditure shall be managed in accordance with the procedures and rules applicable to the general budget of the Union.

3.   The management of the expenditure shall be subject to a contract between the EUSR and the Commission. The EUSR shall be accountable to the Commission for all expenditure.

Article 6

Constitution and composition of the team

1.   Within the limits of the EUSR's mandate and the corresponding financial means made available, the EUSR shall be responsible for constituting his team. The team shall include the expertise on specific policy and security issues as required by the mandate. The EUSR shall keep the Council and the Commission promptly informed of the composition of the team.

2.   Member States, institutions of the Union, and the EEAS may propose the secondment of staff to work with the EUSR. The salary of personnel who are seconded to the EUSR shall be covered by the Member State concerned, the institution of the Union concerned or the EEAS. Experts seconded by Member States to the institutions of the Union or the EEAS may also be posted to the EUSR. International contracted staff shall have the nationality of a Member State.

3.   All seconded personnel shall remain under the administrative authority of the sending Member State, institution of the Union or the EEAS and shall carry out their duties and act in the interest of the mandate of the EUSR.

4.   The EUSR staff shall be co-located with the relevant EEAS departments or Union delegations in order to ensure coherence and consistency with regard to their respective activities.

Article 7

Privileges and immunities of the EUSR and the EUSR's staff

The privileges, immunities and further guarantees necessary for the completion and smooth functioning of the mission of the EUSR and the members of his staff shall be agreed with the host countries, as appropriate. Member States and the EEAS shall grant all necessary support to such effect.

Article 8

Security of EU classified information

The EUSR and the members of the EUSR's team shall respect the security principles and minimum standards established by Council Decision 2013/488/EU (2).

Article 9

Access to information and logistical support

1.   Member States, the Commission, the EEAS and the General Secretariat of the Council shall ensure that the EUSR is given access to any relevant information.

2.   The Union delegations and/or Member States, as appropriate, shall provide logistical support in the region.

Article 10

Security

In accordance with the Union's policy on the security of personnel deployed outside the Union in an operational capacity under Title V of the Treaty, the EUSR shall take all reasonably practicable measures, in conformity with his mandate and on the basis of the security situation in the geographical area of responsibility, for the security of all personnel under his direct authority, in particular by:

| (a) | establishing a specific security plan based on guidance from the EEAS, including specific physical, organisational and procedural security measures, governing the management of the secure movement of personnel to, and within, the geographic area, as well as management of security incidents and a contingency and evacuation plan; |
| --- | --- |

(a)

establishing a specific security plan based on guidance from the EEAS, including specific physical, organisational and procedural security measures, governing the management of the secure movement of personnel to, and within, the geographic area, as well as management of security incidents and a contingency and evacuation plan;

| (b) | ensuring that all personnel deployed outside the Union are covered by high-risk insurance as required by the conditions in the geographic area; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

ensuring that all personnel deployed outside the Union are covered by high-risk insurance as required by the conditions in the geographic area;

| (c) | ensuring that all members of the team to be deployed outside the Union, including locally contracted personnel, have received appropriate security training before or upon arriving in the geographic area, based on the risk ratings assigned to that area; |
| --- | --- |

(c)

ensuring that all members of the team to be deployed outside the Union, including locally contracted personnel, have received appropriate security training before or upon arriving in the geographic area, based on the risk ratings assigned to that area;

| (d) | ensuring that all agreed recommendations made following regular security assessments are implemented and providing the Council, the HR and the Commission with written reports on their implementation and on other security issues within the framework of the progress report and with the mandate implementation report. |
| --- | --- |

(d)

ensuring that all agreed recommendations made following regular security assessments are implemented and providing the Council, the HR and the Commission with written reports on their implementation and on other security issues within the framework of the progress report and with the mandate implementation report.

Article 11

Reporting

1.   The EUSR shall regularly provide the HR and the PSC with reports. The EUSR shall also report as necessary to Council working parties. Regular reports shall be circulated through the COREU network. The EUSR may provide the Foreign Affairs Council with reports. In accordance with Article 36 of the Treaty, the EUSR may be involved in briefing the European Parliament.

2.   The EUSR shall report on the best way of pursuing Union initiatives, such as the contribution of the Union to reforms, and including the political aspects of relevant Union development projects, in coordination with Union delegations in the region.

Article 12

Coordination with other Union actors

1.   In the framework of the Strategy, the EUSR shall contribute to the unity, consistency and effectiveness of the Union's political and diplomatic action and shall help ensure that all Union instruments and Member States' actions are engaged consistently, to attain the Union's policy objectives.

2.   The activities of the EUSR shall be coordinated with those of Union delegations and of the Commission, as well as those of other EUSRs active in the region. The EUSR shall provide Member States' missions and Union delegations in the region with regular briefings.

3.   In the field, close liaison shall be maintained with the Heads of Union delegations and Member States' Heads of Mission. The EUSR, in close cooperation with relevant Union delegations, shall provide local political guidance to the Head of Mission of EUCAP Sahel Niger and the Mission Commander of EUTM Mali. The EUSR, the Mission Commander of EUTM Mali and the Civilian Operation Commander of EUCAP Sahel Niger, shall consult each other as required.

Article 13

Review

The implementation of this Decision and its consistency with other contributions from the Union to the region shall be kept under regular review. The EUSR shall present the Council, the HR and the Commission with a progress report by 30 June 2014 and a comprehensive mandate implementation report by 30 November 2014.

Article 14

Entry into force

This Decision shall enter into force on the day of its adoption.

It shall apply from 1 March 2014.

Done at Brussels, 10 March 2014.

For the Council

The President

G. VROUTSIS

---

(1)  Council Decision 2013/133/CFSP of 18 March 2013 appointing the European Union Special Representative for the Sahel (OJ L 75, 19.3.2013, p. 29).

1

(2)  Council Decision 2013/488/EU of 23 September 2013 on the security rules for protecting EU classified information (OJ L 274, 15.10.2013, p. 1).

2

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| 12.3.2014 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | L 71/18 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

12.3.2014

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

L 71/18

---

COMMISSION IMPLEMENTING DECISION

of 10 March 2014

on a financial contribution by the Union towards emergency measures to combat bluetongue in Germany in 2007

(notified under document C(2014) 1444)

(Only the German text is authentic)

(2014/131/EU)

THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION,

Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

Having regard to Council Decision 2009/470/EC of 25 May 2009 on expenditure in the veterinary field (1), and in particular Article 3 thereof,

Whereas:

| (1) | In accordance with Article 84 of the Financial Regulation and Article 94 of the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) No 1268/2012 of 29 October 2012 on the rules of application of Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union (2) (hereinafter referred to as ‘the Rules of Application’), the commitment of expenditure from the Union budget shall be preceded by a financing decision setting out the essential elements of the action involving expenditure and adopted by the institution or the authorities to which powers have been delegated by the institution. |
| --- | --- |

(1)

In accordance with Article 84 of the Financial Regulation and Article 94 of the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) No 1268/2012 of 29 October 2012 on the rules of application of Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union (2) (hereinafter referred to as ‘the Rules of Application’), the commitment of expenditure from the Union budget shall be preceded by a financing decision setting out the essential elements of the action involving expenditure and adopted by the institution or the authorities to which powers have been delegated by the institution.

| (2) | Decision 2009/470/EC lays down the procedures governing the financial contribution from the Union towards specific veterinary measures, including emergency measures. With a view to helping to eradicate bluetongue as rapidly as possible the Union should contribute financially to eligible expenditure borne by the Member States. Article 3(6) first indent of that Decision lays down rules on the percentage that must be applied to the costs incurred by the Member States. |
| --- | --- |

(2)

Decision 2009/470/EC lays down the procedures governing the financial contribution from the Union towards specific veterinary measures, including emergency measures. With a view to helping to eradicate bluetongue as rapidly as possible the Union should contribute financially to eligible expenditure borne by the Member States. Article 3(6) first indent of that Decision lays down rules on the percentage that must be applied to the costs incurred by the Member States.

| (3) | Article 3 of Commission Regulation (EC) No 349/2005 of 28 February 2005 laying down rules on the Community financing of emergency measures and of the campaign to combat certain animal diseases under Council Decision 90/424/EEC (3) sets rules on the expenditure eligible for Union financial support. |
| --- | --- |

(3)

Article 3 of Commission Regulation (EC) No 349/2005 of 28 February 2005 laying down rules on the Community financing of emergency measures and of the campaign to combat certain animal diseases under Council Decision 90/424/EEC (3) sets rules on the expenditure eligible for Union financial support.

| (4) | Commission Decision 2008/444/EC of 5 June 2008 on a financial contribution from the Community towards emergency measures to combat bluetongue in Germany in 2007 (4) provided for a financial contribution by the Union towards emergency measures to combat bluetongue in Germany in 2007. An official request for reimbursement was submitted by Germany on 6 June 2008, as set out in Article 7(1) and 7(2) of Regulation (EC) No 349/2005. |
| --- | --- |

(4)

Commission Decision 2008/444/EC of 5 June 2008 on a financial contribution from the Community towards emergency measures to combat bluetongue in Germany in 2007 (4) provided for a financial contribution by the Union towards emergency measures to combat bluetongue in Germany in 2007. An official request for reimbursement was submitted by Germany on 6 June 2008, as set out in Article 7(1) and 7(2) of Regulation (EC) No 349/2005.

| (5) | Article 7 of Regulation (EC) No 349/2005 makes the payment of that financial contribution from the Union subject to the condition that the planned activities were actually implemented and that the authorities provided all the necessary information within the set deadlines. |
| --- | --- |

(5)

Article 7 of Regulation (EC) No 349/2005 makes the payment of that financial contribution from the Union subject to the condition that the planned activities were actually implemented and that the authorities provided all the necessary information within the set deadlines.

| (6) | Decision 2008/444/EC provided that a first tranche of EUR 950 000,00 should be paid as part of the Union financial contribution and Commission Implementing Decision 2011/800/EU of 30 November 2011 on a financial contribution from the Union towards emergency measures to combat bluetongue in Germany in 2007 (5) provided that a second tranche of EUR 1 950 000,00 should be paid as part of the Union financial contribution. |
| --- | --- |

(6)

Decision 2008/444/EC provided that a first tranche of EUR 950 000,00 should be paid as part of the Union financial contribution and Commission Implementing Decision 2011/800/EU of 30 November 2011 on a financial contribution from the Union towards emergency measures to combat bluetongue in Germany in 2007 (5) provided that a second tranche of EUR 1 950 000,00 should be paid as part of the Union financial contribution.

| (7) | After the checks and controls made during the on-the-spot audit managed by the competent audit service, and taking into account the preliminary results, a third tranche of the financial support from the Union to the eligible expenditure incurred in association with the eradication of bluetongue in Germany in 2007 should now be fixed. |
| --- | --- |

(7)

After the checks and controls made during the on-the-spot audit managed by the competent audit service, and taking into account the preliminary results, a third tranche of the financial support from the Union to the eligible expenditure incurred in association with the eradication of bluetongue in Germany in 2007 should now be fixed.

| (8) | The measures provided for in this Decision are in accordance with the opinion of the Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health, |
| --- | --- |

(8)

The measures provided for in this Decision are in accordance with the opinion of the Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health,

HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:

Article 1

A third tranche of EUR 1 000 000,00 shall be paid to Germany as part of the Union financial contribution.

Article 2

This Decision constituting a financing decision in the meaning of Article 84 of the Financial Regulation is addressed to the Federal Republic of Germany.

Done at Brussels, 10 March 2014.

For the Commission

Tonio BORG

Member of the Commission

---

(1)  OJ L 155, 18.6.2009, p. 30.

1

(2)  OJ L 362, 31.12.2012, p. 1.

2

(3)  OJ L 55, 1.3.2005, p. 12.

3

(4)  OJ L 156, 14.6.2008, p. 18.

4

(5)  OJ L 320, 3.12.2011, p. 49.

5

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| 12.3.2014 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | L 71/20 |
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12.3.2014

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

L 71/20

---

COMMISSION IMPLEMENTING DECISION

of 11 March 2014

setting the Union-wide performance targets for the air traffic management network and alert thresholds for the second reference period 2015-19

(Text with EEA relevance)

(2014/132/EU)

THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION,

Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

Having regard to Regulation (EC) No 549/2004 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 10 March 2004 laying down the framework for the creation of the single European sky (the framework Regulation) (1), and in particular point (a) of Article 11(3) thereof,

Whereas:

| (1) | Regulation (EC) No 549/2004 requires a performance scheme for air navigation services and network services to be set up. In particular, it requires the Commission to adopt Union-wide performance targets for the key performance areas of safety, the environment, capacity and cost efficiency. Additional rules regarding these targets have been set out in Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 390/2013 (2). |
| --- | --- |

(1)

Regulation (EC) No 549/2004 requires a performance scheme for air navigation services and network services to be set up. In particular, it requires the Commission to adopt Union-wide performance targets for the key performance areas of safety, the environment, capacity and cost efficiency. Additional rules regarding these targets have been set out in Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 390/2013 (2).

| (2) | The Union-wide performance targets for the second reference period, which covers the calendar years 2015 to 2019 inclusive, should now be set. |
| --- | --- |

(2)

The Union-wide performance targets for the second reference period, which covers the calendar years 2015 to 2019 inclusive, should now be set.

| (3) | On 29 July 2010 the Commission designated a Performance Review Body, in accordance with Article 11(2) of Regulation (EC) No 549/2004 and Article 3 of Commission Regulation (EU) No 691/2010 (3), to assist it in implementing the performance scheme, and in particular in setting Union-wide performance targets. |
| --- | --- |

(3)

On 29 July 2010 the Commission designated a Performance Review Body, in accordance with Article 11(2) of Regulation (EC) No 549/2004 and Article 3 of Commission Regulation (EU) No 691/2010 (3), to assist it in implementing the performance scheme, and in particular in setting Union-wide performance targets.

| (4) | To facilitate the adoption of Union-wide performance targets for the second reference period, the Performance Review Body, supported by the Commission, consulted all the stakeholders listed in Article 10(3) of Regulation (EC) No 549/2004 on the approach to be used for setting the Union-wide performance targets, the processes by which to set them and the indicative ranges within which they should fall. This stakeholder consultation lasted from 25 January 2013 to 3 July 2013. The Sectoral Dialogue Committee set up under Commission Decision 98/500/EC (4) was involved and all European professional staff representative bodies of the civil aviation sector had the opportunity to provide their comments. |
| --- | --- |

(4)

To facilitate the adoption of Union-wide performance targets for the second reference period, the Performance Review Body, supported by the Commission, consulted all the stakeholders listed in Article 10(3) of Regulation (EC) No 549/2004 on the approach to be used for setting the Union-wide performance targets, the processes by which to set them and the indicative ranges within which they should fall. This stakeholder consultation lasted from 25 January 2013 to 3 July 2013. The Sectoral Dialogue Committee set up under Commission Decision 98/500/EC (4) was involved and all European professional staff representative bodies of the civil aviation sector had the opportunity to provide their comments.

| (5) | Taking account of the stakeholder consultations, the Performance Review Body proposed the Union-wide performance targets in a report presented to the Commission on 27 September 2013. The report set out the assumptions and the rationale underlying the proposed targets and the composition of the groups of air navigation service providers or functional airspace blocks having a similar operational and economic environment. |
| --- | --- |

(5)

Taking account of the stakeholder consultations, the Performance Review Body proposed the Union-wide performance targets in a report presented to the Commission on 27 September 2013. The report set out the assumptions and the rationale underlying the proposed targets and the composition of the groups of air navigation service providers or functional airspace blocks having a similar operational and economic environment.

| (6) | The Union-wide performance targets set out in this Decision comply with Regulation (EC) No 549/2004 and Implementing Regulation (EU) No 390/2013. They have been prepared with the assistance of the Performance Review Body. Account has been taken of the stakeholder consultations and the input received from the Network Manager established by Article 6 of Regulation (EC) No 551/2004 of the European Parliament and of the Council (5) and Article 3 of Commission Regulation (EU) No 677/2011 (6), the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and national supervisory authorities. The targets are based on the information available to the Commission and the Performance Review Body up to 17 December 2013. |
| --- | --- |

(6)

The Union-wide performance targets set out in this Decision comply with Regulation (EC) No 549/2004 and Implementing Regulation (EU) No 390/2013. They have been prepared with the assistance of the Performance Review Body. Account has been taken of the stakeholder consultations and the input received from the Network Manager established by Article 6 of Regulation (EC) No 551/2004 of the European Parliament and of the Council (5) and Article 3 of Commission Regulation (EU) No 677/2011 (6), the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and national supervisory authorities. The targets are based on the information available to the Commission and the Performance Review Body up to 17 December 2013.

| (7) | The Union-wide performance targets are based on data for the Member States, Norway and Switzerland. |
| --- | --- |

(7)

The Union-wide performance targets are based on data for the Member States, Norway and Switzerland.

| (8) | The Union-wide performance targets for the key performance area of safety set out in this Decision have been prepared in collaboration with EASA. When adopting acceptable means of compliance and guidance material in accordance with Implementing Regulation (EU) No 390/2013, EASA is to further clarify the definitions of the categories of the Risk Analysis Tool (RAT) to ensure a harmonised application of the Union-wide performance targets in the key performance area of safety, in particular in respect to the definition for category C (ability to provide safe but degraded ATM services). EASA was also consulted on the Union-wide performance targets for the other key performance areas with a view to ensuring consistency with the overriding safety objectives. |
| --- | --- |

(8)

The Union-wide performance targets for the key performance area of safety set out in this Decision have been prepared in collaboration with EASA. When adopting acceptable means of compliance and guidance material in accordance with Implementing Regulation (EU) No 390/2013, EASA is to further clarify the definitions of the categories of the Risk Analysis Tool (RAT) to ensure a harmonised application of the Union-wide performance targets in the key performance area of safety, in particular in respect to the definition for category C (ability to provide safe but degraded ATM services). EASA was also consulted on the Union-wide performance targets for the other key performance areas with a view to ensuring consistency with the overriding safety objectives.

| (9) | The Union-wide performance targets for the key performance area of environment are to be set against the baseline of the performance levels achieved in 2012, as calculated by the Performance Review Body, namely 3,17 % for the average horizontal en route flight efficiency of the actual trajectory and 5,15 % for the average horizontal en route flight efficiency of the last filed flight plan trajectory. |
| --- | --- |

(9)

The Union-wide performance targets for the key performance area of environment are to be set against the baseline of the performance levels achieved in 2012, as calculated by the Performance Review Body, namely 3,17 % for the average horizontal en route flight efficiency of the actual trajectory and 5,15 % for the average horizontal en route flight efficiency of the last filed flight plan trajectory.

| (10) | For each year in the reference period, the Union-wide performance target for the key performance area of capacity, measured as the average en route air traffic flow management (ATFM) delay, should match the Union-wide performance target for 2014, taking into account the traffic forecast for the second reference period. |
| --- | --- |

(10)

For each year in the reference period, the Union-wide performance target for the key performance area of capacity, measured as the average en route air traffic flow management (ATFM) delay, should match the Union-wide performance target for 2014, taking into account the traffic forecast for the second reference period.

| (11) | The Union-wide performance targets for the key performance area of cost-efficiency for each year of the reference period should be expressed in real terms using 2009 values (EUR2009) to allow, inter alia, for comparisons with the level of performance achieved in the previous reference period. |
| --- | --- |

(11)

The Union-wide performance targets for the key performance area of cost-efficiency for each year of the reference period should be expressed in real terms using 2009 values (EUR2009) to allow, inter alia, for comparisons with the level of performance achieved in the previous reference period.

| (12) | The expected improvement in cost-efficiency for the second reference period should be measured against determined costs for 2014 of EUR 6,242 million (7) in EUR2009. On the basis of the most recent traffic assumptions for 2014 (8), the baseline value for the determined unit cost should be EUR 58,09 in EUR2009. Thus, the cost-efficiency target should provide for a reduction in determined unit costs by 3,3 % per year over the second reference period. The baseline value of EUR 58,09 in EUR2009 is higher than the Union-wide performance target of EUR 53,92 in EUR2009 set for 2014, because the projected traffic volume for 2014 is lower than originally assumed in Commission Decision 2011/121/EU (9). |
| --- | --- |

(12)

The expected improvement in cost-efficiency for the second reference period should be measured against determined costs for 2014 of EUR 6,242 million (7) in EUR2009. On the basis of the most recent traffic assumptions for 2014 (8), the baseline value for the determined unit cost should be EUR 58,09 in EUR2009. Thus, the cost-efficiency target should provide for a reduction in determined unit costs by 3,3 % per year over the second reference period. The baseline value of EUR 58,09 in EUR2009 is higher than the Union-wide performance target of EUR 53,92 in EUR2009 set for 2014, because the projected traffic volume for 2014 is lower than originally assumed in Commission Decision 2011/121/EU (9).

| (13) | The traffic assumptions for the second reference period have been taken from the low case scenario of STATFOR’s most recent forecast, published on 30 September 2013, which indicates an average annual growth in traffic of 1,2 %. The long forecasting period until the end of 2019 involves a degree of uncertainty, however. Therefore, in the context of the report by the Commission to the Single Sky Committee referred to in Article 18(4) of Implementing Regulation (EU) No 390/2013, the Commission should, by 2016, review these traffic assumptions in light of the most recent available forecast from STATFOR. On the basis of that review, the Commission may decide, if appropriate, to revise the Union-wide performance targets for the calendar years 2017 to 2019 in accordance with point (a) of Article 17(1) of that Regulation. |
| --- | --- |

(13)

The traffic assumptions for the second reference period have been taken from the low case scenario of STATFOR’s most recent forecast, published on 30 September 2013, which indicates an average annual growth in traffic of 1,2 %. The long forecasting period until the end of 2019 involves a degree of uncertainty, however. Therefore, in the context of the report by the Commission to the Single Sky Committee referred to in Article 18(4) of Implementing Regulation (EU) No 390/2013, the Commission should, by 2016, review these traffic assumptions in light of the most recent available forecast from STATFOR. On the basis of that review, the Commission may decide, if appropriate, to revise the Union-wide performance targets for the calendar years 2017 to 2019 in accordance with point (a) of Article 17(1) of that Regulation.

| (14) | Reference determined costs for the second reference period are forecasted to reduce on average by 2,1 % per year. |
| --- | --- |

(14)

Reference determined costs for the second reference period are forecasted to reduce on average by 2,1 % per year.

| (15) | In addition to the Union-wide performance targets, alert thresholds should be set beyond which the alert mechanisms referred to in Implementing Regulation (EU) No 390/2013 may be activated. |
| --- | --- |

(15)

In addition to the Union-wide performance targets, alert thresholds should be set beyond which the alert mechanisms referred to in Implementing Regulation (EU) No 390/2013 may be activated.

| (16) | In accordance with Implementing Regulation (EU) No 390/2013, local targets need not necessarily be equal to the Union-wide performance targets. They should be consistent with and adequately contributing to these Union-wide performance targets. The performance plan, which according to Implementing Regulation (EU) No 390/2013 has to be drawn up at functional airspace block level, should reflect this consistency and its adequate contribution. |
| --- | --- |

(16)

In accordance with Implementing Regulation (EU) No 390/2013, local targets need not necessarily be equal to the Union-wide performance targets. They should be consistent with and adequately contributing to these Union-wide performance targets. The performance plan, which according to Implementing Regulation (EU) No 390/2013 has to be drawn up at functional airspace block level, should reflect this consistency and its adequate contribution.

| (17) | This Decision should enter into force on the day of its publication, with a view to facilitating the preparation of the performance plans in accordance with Chapter II of Implementing Regulation (EU) No 390/2013. |
| --- | --- |

(17)

This Decision should enter into force on the day of its publication, with a view to facilitating the preparation of the performance plans in accordance with Chapter II of Implementing Regulation (EU) No 390/2013.

| (18) | The measures provided for in this Decision are in accordance with the opinion of the Single Sky Committee, |
| --- | --- |

(18)

The measures provided for in this Decision are in accordance with the opinion of the Single Sky Committee,

HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:

Article 1

Union-wide performance targets for the key performance area of safety

1.   For the second reference period, the Union-wide performance targets for the key performance area of safety shall be as set out in paragraphs 2 and 3.

2.   The Union-wide performance targets for the effectiveness of safety management referred to in point 1.1(a) of section 1 of Annex I to Implementing Regulation (EU) No 390/2013 shall be as follows:

| (a) | by 31 December 2019 at the latest, national supervisory authorities shall achieve at least Level C (10) for all management objectives (‘safety policy and objectives’, ‘safety risk management’, ‘safety assurance’, ‘safety promotion’ and ‘safety culture’); |
| --- | --- |

(a)

by 31 December 2019 at the latest, national supervisory authorities shall achieve at least Level C (10) for all management objectives (‘safety policy and objectives’, ‘safety risk management’, ‘safety assurance’, ‘safety promotion’ and ‘safety culture’);

| (b) | by 31 December 2019 at the latest, air navigation service providers shall achieve at least Level D for the management objectives ‘safety policy and objectives’, ‘safety risk management’, ‘safety assurance’, and ‘safety promotion’ and at least Level C for the management objective ‘safety culture’. |
| --- | --- |

(b)

by 31 December 2019 at the latest, air navigation service providers shall achieve at least Level D for the management objectives ‘safety policy and objectives’, ‘safety risk management’, ‘safety assurance’, and ‘safety promotion’ and at least Level C for the management objective ‘safety culture’.

3.   The Union-wide performance targets for the application of the severity classification referred to in point 1.1(b) of section 1 of Annex I to Implementing Regulation (EU) No 390/2013 shall be as follows:

| (a) | by 31 December 2017 and every year thereafter until the end of the second reference period, Member States, through their national supervisory authorities, shall ensure the collection and reporting to EASA of the ‘ATM Overall’ severity determined by the Risk Analysis Tool (RAT) methodology for the classification of at least 80 % of the annually reported separation minima infringements and runway incursions with categories A (serious incidents), B (major incidents) and C (significant incidents) (11); |
| --- | --- |

(a)

by 31 December 2017 and every year thereafter until the end of the second reference period, Member States, through their national supervisory authorities, shall ensure the collection and reporting to EASA of the ‘ATM Overall’ severity determined by the Risk Analysis Tool (RAT) methodology for the classification of at least 80 % of the annually reported separation minima infringements and runway incursions with categories A (serious incidents), B (major incidents) and C (significant incidents) (11);

| (b) | by 31 December 2017 and 2019 at the latest, Member States, through their national supervisory authorities, shall ensure the collection and reporting to EASA of the ‘ATM Overall’ severity determined by the Risk Analysis Tool (RAT) methodology for the classification of at least 80 % and 100 % respectively of the annually reported ATM-specific occurrences with the categories AA (total inability to provide safe ATM services), A (serious inability to provide safe ATM services), B (partial inability to provide safe ATM services) and C (ability to provide safe but degraded ATM services); |
| --- | --- |

(b)

by 31 December 2017 and 2019 at the latest, Member States, through their national supervisory authorities, shall ensure the collection and reporting to EASA of the ‘ATM Overall’ severity determined by the Risk Analysis Tool (RAT) methodology for the classification of at least 80 % and 100 % respectively of the annually reported ATM-specific occurrences with the categories AA (total inability to provide safe ATM services), A (serious inability to provide safe ATM services), B (partial inability to provide safe ATM services) and C (ability to provide safe but degraded ATM services);

| (c) | by 31 December 2017 and 2019 at the latest, air navigation service providers shall report to national supervisory authorities the ‘ATM Ground’ severity using the Risk Analysis Tool (RAT) methodology for the classification of at minimum 80 % and 100 % respectively of the annually reported separation minima infringements and runway incursions with categories A (serious incidents), B (major incidents) and C (significant incidents); |
| --- | --- |

(c)

by 31 December 2017 and 2019 at the latest, air navigation service providers shall report to national supervisory authorities the ‘ATM Ground’ severity using the Risk Analysis Tool (RAT) methodology for the classification of at minimum 80 % and 100 % respectively of the annually reported separation minima infringements and runway incursions with categories A (serious incidents), B (major incidents) and C (significant incidents);

| (d) | by 31 December 2017 and 2019 at the latest, air navigation service providers shall report to national supervisory authorities the ‘ATM Ground’ severity using the Risk Analysis Tool (RAT) methodology for the classification of at least 80 % and 100 % respectively of the annually reported ATM-specific occurrences with the categories AA (total inability to provide safe ATM services), A (serious inability to provide safe ATM services), B (partial inability to provide safe ATM services) and C (ability to provide safe but degraded ATM services). |
| --- | --- |

(d)

by 31 December 2017 and 2019 at the latest, air navigation service providers shall report to national supervisory authorities the ‘ATM Ground’ severity using the Risk Analysis Tool (RAT) methodology for the classification of at least 80 % and 100 % respectively of the annually reported ATM-specific occurrences with the categories AA (total inability to provide safe ATM services), A (serious inability to provide safe ATM services), B (partial inability to provide safe ATM services) and C (ability to provide safe but degraded ATM services).

Article 2

Union-wide performance targets for the key performance area of environment

For the second reference period, the Union-wide performance targets for the key performance area of environment shall be as follows:

| 1. | an average horizontal en route flight efficiency of at least 2,6 % in 2019 for the actual trajectory, as defined in point 2.1(a) of section 1 of Annex I to Implementing Regulation (EU) No 390/2013; |
| --- | --- |

1.

an average horizontal en route flight efficiency of at least 2,6 % in 2019 for the actual trajectory, as defined in point 2.1(a) of section 1 of Annex I to Implementing Regulation (EU) No 390/2013;

| 2. | an average horizontal en route flight efficiency of at least 4,1 % in 2019 for the last filed flight plan trajectory, as defined point 2.1(b) of section 1 of Annex I to Implementing Regulation (EU) No 390/2013. |
| --- | --- |

2.

an average horizontal en route flight efficiency of at least 4,1 % in 2019 for the last filed flight plan trajectory, as defined point 2.1(b) of section 1 of Annex I to Implementing Regulation (EU) No 390/2013.

Article 3

Union-wide performance targets for the key performance area of capacity

For the second reference period, the Union-wide performance targets for the key performance area of capacity shall be an average en route air traffic flow management (ATFM) delay per flight, as defined in point 3.1 of section 1 of Annex I to Implementing Regulation (EU) No 390/2013, of no more than 0,5 minutes per flight, to be reached for each calendar year.

Article 4

Union-wide performance target for the key performance area of cost-efficiency

For the second reference period, the Union-wide performance targets for the key performance area of cost-efficiency shall be an average Union-wide determined unit cost for en route air navigation services as defined in point 4.1(a) of section 1 of Annex I to Implementing Regulation (EU) No 390/2013, expressed in real terms EUR2009, of EUR 56,64 for 2015, EUR 54,95 for 2016, EUR 52,98 for 2017, EUR 51,00 for 2018, and EUR 49,10 for 2019.

Article 5

Assumptions

This Decision is based on the assumptions set out in Annex.

Article 6

Alert thresholds

1.   Where the actual traffic recorded by the Performance Review Body deviates from the traffic assumptions set out in the Annex by at least 10 % over a given calendar year, the Union-wide alert mechanism referred to in Article 19(1) of Implementing Regulation (EU) No 390/2013 may be activated.

2.   Where the actual traffic recorded by the Performance Review Body deviates from the traffic forecasts set out in the respective performance plan referred to in Chapter III of Implementing Regulation (EU) No 390/2013 by at least 10 % over a given calendar year, the local alert mechanism referred to in Article 19(2) of Implementing Regulation (EU) No 390/2013 may be activated.

Article 7

Entry into force

This Decision shall enter into force on the day of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.

Done at Brussels, 11 March 2014.

For the Commission

The President

José Manuel BARROSO

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(1)  OJ L 96, 31.3.2004, p. 1.

1

(2)  Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 390/2013 of 3 May 2013 laying down a performance scheme for air navigation services and network functions (OJ L 128, 9.5.2013, p. 1).

2

(3)  Commission Regulation (EU) No 691/2010 of 29 July 2010 laying down a performance scheme for air navigation services and network functions (OJ L 201, 3.8.2010, p. 1).

3

(4)  Commission Decision 98/500/EC of 20 May 1998 on the establishment of Sectoral Dialogue Committees promoting the Dialogue between the social partners at European level (OJ L 225, 12.8.1998, p. 27).

4

(5)  Regulation (EC) No 551/2004 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 10 March 2004 on the organisation and use of the airspace in the single European sky (OJ L 96, 31.3.2004, p. 20).

5

(6)  Commission Regulation (EU) No 677/2011 of 7 July 2011 laying down detailed rules for the implementation of air traffic management (ATM) network functions (OJ L 185, 15.7.2011, p. 1).

6

(7)  Including the cost for Croatia, which did not participate in the performance scheme during the first reference period, and adjustments for all Member States to take account of the anticipated deduction for exempted VFR flights.

7

(8)  107 439 000en route service units (source: STATFOR, low case forecast, September 2013).

8

en route

(9)  Commission Decision 2011/121/EU of 21 February 2011 setting the European Union-wide performance targets and alert thresholds for the provision of air navigation services for the years 2012 to 2014 (OJ L 48, 23.2.2011, p. 16).

9

(10)  Level C and D are defined in the acceptable means of compliance and guidance material from EASA for the implementation and measurement of safety key performance indicators as referred to in Article 7 of Implementing Regulation (EU) No 390/2013.

10

(11)  The categories AA, A, B, C, D and E are defined in the acceptable means of compliance and guidance material from EASA for the implementation and measurement of safety key performance indicators as referred to in Article 7 of Implementing Regulation (EU) No 390/2013.

11

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ANNEX

| 1. | Traffic assumptions at Union-wide level expressed in en route service units










  En route service units |
| --- | --- |
| 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 |
| 108 541 000 | 110 196 000 | 111 436 000 | 112 884 000 | 114 305 000 |

1.

Traffic assumptions at Union-wide level expressed in en route service units

En route service units

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

108 541 000

110 196 000

111 436 000

112 884 000

114 305 000

| 2. | Reference determined cost for en route air navigation services forecasted at Union-wide level









  Determined cost (EUR2009) |
| --- | --- |
| 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 |
| 6 147 905 000 | 6 055 686 000 | 5 904 294 000 | 5 756 687 000 | 5 612 769 000 |

2.

Reference determined cost for en route air navigation services forecasted at Union-wide level

Determined cost (EUR2009)

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

6 147 905 000

6 055 686 000

5 904 294 000

5 756 687 000

5 612 769 000

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