Amendments adopted by the European Parliament on 17 January 2019 on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing the Rights and Values programme (COM(2018)0383 — C8-0234/2018 — 2018/0207(COD))
Date: 2019-01-17
Institutions: Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs, European Parliament
Subjects: EU programme, European citizenship, area of freedom, security and justice, civil society, cross-border cooperation, equal treatment, fundamental rights, human rights, participatory democracy, rule of law




C_2020411EN.01061801.xml










27.11.2020   


EN


Official Journal of the European Union


C 411/618






P8_TA(2019)0040
Establishing the Rights and Values programme ***I
Amendments adopted by the European Parliament on 17 January 2019 on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing the Rights and Values programme (COM(2018)0383 — C8-0234/2018 — 2018/0207(COD)) (1)

(Ordinary legislative procedure: first reading)
(2020/C 411/51)

Amendment 1


Proposal for a regulation


Title








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





Proposal for a


Proposal for a




REGULATION OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL


REGULATION OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL




establishing the Rights and Values programme


establishing the 
Citizens, Equality,
 Rights and Values programme





Amendment 2


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 1








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(1)


In accordance with Article 2 of the Treaty of the European Union, ‘the Union is founded on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom democracy, equality, the rule of law and the respect for human rights, including the rights of the persons belonging to minorities. These values are common to the Member States in a society where pluralism, non-discrimination, tolerance, justice, solidarity and equality between women and men prevail’. Article 3 further specifies that the ‘Union’s aim is to promote peace, its values and the well-being of its people’ and, among others, ‘it shall respect its rich cultural and linguistic diversity, and shall ensure that Europe’s cultural heritage is safeguarded and enhanced’. Those values are further reaffirmed and articulated in the rights, freedoms and principles enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union.












(1)


In accordance with Article 2 of the Treaty of the European Union, ‘the Union is founded on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom democracy, equality, the rule of law and the respect for human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities. 
Of those rights and values, human dignity, as recognised by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, is the primary foundation of all fundamental human rights
. These values are common to the Member States in a society where pluralism, non-discrimination, tolerance, justice, solidarity and equality between women and men prevail’. Article 3 further specifies that the ‘Union’s aim is to promote peace, its values and the well-being of its people’ and, among others, ‘it shall respect its rich cultural and linguistic diversity, and shall ensure that Europe’s cultural heritage is safeguarded and enhanced’. Those values are further reaffirmed and articulated in the rights, freedoms and principles enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union.









Amendment 3


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 1 a (new)








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





 










(1a)






In its resolution of 30 May 2018 on the 2021-2027 multiannual financial framework and own resources, the European Parliament stressed the importance of the horizontal principles that should underpin the multiannual financial framework (MFF) and all related Union policies, including the mainstreaming of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into all Union policies and initiatives of the next MFF, emphasised that the elimination of discrimination is vital to fulfil the Union’s commitments towards an inclusive Europe and deplored the lack of gender mainstreaming and gender equality commitments in Union policies, as presented in the MFF proposals.











Amendment 4


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 1 b (new)








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





 










(1b)






In its resolution of 14 March 2018 on the next MFF: Preparing the Parliament’s position on the MFF post-2020, the European Parliament expressed its support for programmes in the areas of culture, education, media, youth, sport, democracy, citizenship and civil society that have clearly demonstrated their European added value and enjoy lasting popularity among beneficiaries, underlined that a stronger and a more ambitious Union can only be achieved if it is provided with the financial means to do so, and recommended setting up an internal European Democracy Fund for the strengthened support of civil society and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) working in the fields of democracy and human rights, to be managed by the Commission. Continued support should be provided to existing policies, resources to the Union’ flagship programmes should be increased, and additional responsibilities should be matched with additional financial means.











Amendment 5


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 2








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(2)


Those rights and values must continue to be promoted 
and
 enforced and shared among the citizens and peoples and be at the heart of the EU project. Therefore, a new Justice, Rights and Values Fund, comprising the Rights and Values and the Justice programmes shall be created in the EU budget. At a time where European societies are confronted with extremism, radicalism and divisions, it is more important than ever to promote, strengthen and defend justice, rights and EU values: human rights, respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law. This will have profound and direct implications for political, social, cultural and economic life in the EU. As part of the new Fund, the Justice Programme will continue to support the further development of Union area of justice and cross-border cooperation. The Rights and Values Programme will bring together the 2014-2020 Programme Rights, Equality and Citizenship established by Regulation (EU) No 1381/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council (8) and the Europe for Citizens programme established by Council Regulation (EU) 
No 390/2014

 (9), (hereafter ‘the predecessor Programmes’).












(2)


Those rights and values must continue to be 
actively cultivated, protected and
 promoted 
by the Union and each Member State in all their policies in a consistent way and must be
 enforced and shared among the citizens and peoples and be at the heart of the EU project
, given that any deterioration in the protection of those rights and values in any Member State can have detrimental effects on the Union as a whole
. Therefore, a new Justice, Rights and Values Fund, comprising the Rights and Values and the Justice programmes shall be created in the EU budget. At a time where European societies are confronted with extremism, radicalism and divisions 
and a continually shrinking space for independent civil society
, it is more important than ever to promote, strengthen and defend justice, rights and EU values: human rights, respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, 
non-discrimination, and
 the rule of law. This will have profound and direct implications for political, social, cultural and economic life in the EU. As part of the new Fund, the Justice Programme will continue to support the further development of Union area of justice and cross-border cooperation. The 
Citizens, Equality,
 Rights, and Values Programme 
(the ‘Programme’)
 will bring together the 2014-2020 Programme Rights, Equality and Citizenship established by Regulation (EU) No 1381/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council (8) and the Europe for Citizens programme established by Council Regulation (EU) 
No 390/2014

 (9), (hereafter ‘the predecessor Programmes’) 
and it will be adjusted to address new challenges to European values'
.









Amendment 6


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 3








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(3)


The Justice, Rights and Values Fund and its two underlying funding programmes will focus 
primarily
 on people and entities, which contribute to make our common values, rights and rich diversity alive and vibrant. The ultimate objective is to nurture and sustain rights-based, equal, inclusive and democratic society
. That includes
 a vibrant civil society, 
encouraging
 people's democratic, civic and social participation and 
fostering
 the rich diversity of European society, based on our common history and memory. Article 11 of the Treaty of the European Union 
further specifies
 that the institutions 
shall
, by appropriate means, give citizens and representative associations the opportunity to make known and publicly exchange their views in all areas of Union action.












(3)


The Justice, Rights and Values Fund and its two underlying funding programmes will focus on people and entities, which contribute to make our common values
, equality
, rights and rich diversity alive and vibrant. The ultimate objective is to nurture and sustain rights-based, equal, 
open,
 inclusive and democratic society 
by funding activities that promote
 a vibrant
, well-developed, resilient and empowered
 civil society, 
including advocacy for the promotion and protection of our common values, and that encourage
 people's democratic, civic and social participation and 
fosters peace and cultivates
 the rich diversity of European society, based on our common 
values,
 history and memory 
and heritage
. Article 11 of the Treaty of the European Union 
requires
 that the institutions 
maintain an open, transparent and regular dialogue with civil society and
, by appropriate means, give citizens and representative associations the opportunity to make known and publicly exchange their views in all areas of Union action.









Amendment 7


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 3 a (new)








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





 










(3 a)






The Commission should ensure a regular, open and transparent dialogue with the beneficiaries of the Programme and other relevant stakeholders by setting up a Civil Dialogue Group. The Civil Dialogue Group should contribute to the exchange of experiences and good practices and to the discussion of policy developments within the fields and objectives covered by the Programme and related fields. The Civil Dialogue Group should consist of organisations which have been selected to receive an operating or action grant under the Programme and other organisations and stakeholders who have expressed an interest in the Programme or work in this policy area, but are not necessarily supported by the Programme.











Amendment 8


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 4








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(4)


The 
Rights and Values
 programme 
(the ‘Programme’)
 should allow developing synergies to tackle the challenges that are common to the promotion and protection of values and to reach a critical dimension to have concrete results in the field. That should be achieved by building on the positive experience of the predecessor Programmes. This will enable to fully exploit the potential of synergies, to more effectively support the policy areas covered and to increase their potential to reach people. To be effective, the Programme should take into account the specific nature of the different policies, their different target groups and their particular needs through tailor-made approaches.












(4)


The Programme should allow developing synergies to tackle the challenges that are common to the promotion and protection of 
the
 values 
enshrined in the Treaties
 and to reach a critical dimension to have concrete results in the field. That should be achieved by building on 
and further developing
 the positive experience of the predecessor Programmes. This will enable to fully exploit the potential of synergies, to more effectively support the policy areas covered and to increase their potential to reach people. To be effective, the Programme should take into account the specific nature of the different policies, their different target groups and their particular needs 
and opportunities for participation
 through tailor-made 
and targeted
 approaches
, including the promotion of all type of equality and gender-equality within
.









Amendment 9


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 4 a (new)








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





 










(4a)






Full respect and promotion of the rule of law and democracy is fundamental to building citizens' trust in the Union. Respect for the rule of law within the Union is a prerequisite for the protection of fundamental rights, as well as for upholding all rights and obligations enshrined in the Treaties. The way in which the rule of law is implemented in the Member States plays a vital role in ensuring mutual trust among Member States and their legal systems. The Programme should therefore promote and safeguard fundamental rights, democracy and the rule of law at local, regional, national and transnational levels.











Amendment 10


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 4 b (new)








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





 










(4b)






The rule of law, enshrined in Article 2 TEU as one of the Union values, include the principles of legality, implying a transparent, accountable, democratic and pluralistic process for enacting laws; legal certainty; prohibition of arbitrariness of executive powers; effective judicial protection by independent courts, including of fundamental rights; and separation of powers and equality before the law.











Amendment 11


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 5








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(5)


In order to bring the European Union closer to its citizens, a variety of actions and coordinated efforts are necessary. Bringing together citizens in town-twinning projects or networks of towns and supporting civil society organisations in the areas covered by the programme will contribute to increase citizens' engagement in society and ultimately their involvement in the democratic life of the Union. At the same time supporting activities promoting mutual understanding, diversity, 
dialogue
 and respect for others fosters a sense of belonging 
and
 a European identity, based on a shared understanding of European values, culture, history and heritage. The promotion of a greater sense of belonging to the Union and of Union values is particularly important amongst citizens of the EU outermost regions due to their remoteness and distance from continental Europe.












(5)


In order to bring the European Union closer to its citizens, 
to foster democratic participation and to empower citizens to make use of their rights linked to European citizenship,
 a variety of actions and coordinated efforts
, aiming at a balanced geographical distribution,
 are necessary. Bringing together citizens in town-twinning projects or networks of towns and supporting civil society organisations 
at the local, regional, national and transnational level
 in the areas covered by the programme will contribute to increase citizens' engagement in society and ultimately their 
active
 involvement in the democratic life of the Union 
as well as in shaping the Union’s political agenda
. At the same time supporting activities promoting mutual understanding, 
intercultural dialogue, cultural, and linguistic
 diversity, 
reconciliation, social inclusion
 and respect for others, fosters a sense of belonging 
to the Union and a common citizenship under
 a European identity, based on a shared understanding of European values, culture, history and heritage. The promotion of a greater sense of belonging to the Union and of Union values is particularly important amongst citizens of the EU outermost regions due to their remoteness and distance from continental Europe.









Amendment 12


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 5 a (new)








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





 










(5a)






Increasing plurality and global migration trends raise the importance of intercultural and inter-religious dialogue in our societies. Full support should be given through the Programme to intercultural and inter-religious dialogue as a part of social harmony in Europe and a key element to boost social inclusion and cohesion. While interreligious dialogue could help to highlight the positive contribution of religion to social cohesion, religious illiteracy risks setting the stage for the misuse of religious feeling among the population. The Programme should therefore support projects and initiatives developing religious literacy, fostering interreligious dialogue and mutual comprehension.











Amendment 13


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 6








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(6)


Remembrance activities and critical 
reflection
 on Europe’s historical memory are necessary to make citizens aware of 
the
 common history, as the foundation for a common future
, moral purpose and shared values
. The relevance of historical, cultural and intercultural aspects should also be taken into account, as well as the links between remembrance and the creation of a European identity and sense of belonging together.












(6)


Remembrance activities and critical 
and creative thinking
 on Europe’s historical memory are necessary to make citizens
, in particular young people,
 aware of 
their
 common history, as the foundation for a common future. The relevance of historical
, social
, cultural and intercultural aspects
, tolerance and dialogue
 should also be taken into account 
in order to promote a common ground based on shared values, solidarity, diversity and peace
, as well as the links between remembrance and the creation of a European identity and sense of belonging together.









Amendment 14


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 7








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(7)


Citizens 
should also be more
 aware of their rights deriving from citizenship of the Union, and should feel at ease about living, travelling, studying, working and volunteering in another Member State, and should feel able to enjoy and exercise all their citizenship rights, place their trust in equal access, full enforceability and protection of their rights without any discrimination, no matter where in the Union they happen to be. Civil society needs to be 
supported
 for the promotion, safeguarding and raising awareness of EU common values under Article 2 TEU and in contributing to the effective enjoyment of rights under Union law.












(7)




Union
 citizens 
are not sufficiently
 aware of their rights deriving from citizenship of the Union, 
such as the right to vote in European and local elections or the right to receive consular protection from other Member States’ embassies. Citizens should be made more aware of these rights
 and should feel at ease about living, travelling, studying, working and volunteering in another Member State, and should feel able to enjoy and exercise all their citizenship rights, place their trust in equal access, full enforceability and protection of their rights without any discrimination, no matter where in the Union they happen to be. Civil society needs to be 
strengthened at all levels
 for the promotion, safeguarding and raising awareness of EU common values under Article 2 TEU and in contributing to the effective enjoyment of rights under Union law.









Amendment 15


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 7 a (new)








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





 










(7a)






The European Parliament resolution of 2 April 2009 on European conscience and totalitarianism and the Council Conclusions of 9-10 June 2011 on the memory of the crimes committed by totalitarian regimes in Europe underline the importance of keeping the memories of the past alive as a means of building a common future and highlight the value of the Union's role in facilitating, sharing and promoting the collective memory of those crimes in a bid to breathe fresh life into a pluralist and democratic joint European identity.











Amendment 16


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 8








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(8)


Equality 
between women and men
 is a fundamental value and an objective of the European Union. Discrimination against and unequal treatment of women violates their fundamental rights and prevents their full political, social and economic participation in society. In addition, the existence of structural and cultural barriers hinders the achievement of real gender equality. Promoting gender equality in all activities of the Union is therefore a core activity for the Union and a driver for economic growth and should be supported by the programme.












(8)




Gender
 equality is a fundamental value and an objective of the European Union. 
Article 8 of this Regulation gives the Union the task of eliminating inequalities and promoting equality between men and women through all its activities. Yet overall progress on gender equality is very slow, cf. the Gender Equality Index 2017, published by the European Institute for Gender Equality. Often silent and hidden intersectional
 discrimination against and unequal treatment of women 
and girls as well as various forms of violence against women
 violates their fundamental rights and prevents their full political, social and economic participation in society. In addition, the existence of 
political,
 structural and cultural barriers hinders the achievement of real gender equality. Promoting gender equality in all activities of the Union 
by supporting gender mainstreaming and non-discrimination objectives and by actively tackling stereotypes and addressing also silent discrimination
 is therefore a core activity for the Union and a driver for economic growth and should be supported by the programme.









Amendment 17


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 9








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(9)


Gender-based violence and violence against children 
and
 young people constitute a serious violation of fundamental rights. Violence persists throughout the Union, in all social and economic contexts, and has serious repercussions on victims’ physical and psychological health and on society as a whole. 
Children, young people and women are particularly vulnerable to
 violence
, in particular in close relationships
. Action should be taken to promote the rights of the child and to contribute to the protection of children from harm and violence, which pose a danger to their physical and mental health and constitute a breach of their rights to development, protection and dignity. Combating all forms of violence, promoting prevention and protecting and supporting victims are priorities of the Union which help fulfil individuals’ fundamental rights and contribute to equality between women and men. Those priorities should be supported by the Programme.












(9)


Gender-based violence and violence against children, young 
and older
 people
, persons with disabilities, refugees and migrants, and against members of different minority groups, such as members of ethnic minority groups and LGBTQI people,
 constitute a serious violation of fundamental rights. Violence persists throughout the Union, in all social and economic contexts, and has serious repercussions on victims’ physical and psychological health and on society as a whole. 
Combating gender-based
 violence 
requires a multi-dimensional approach covering legal, educational, health, including sexual and reproductive rights, economic and other societal aspects such as supporting women’s rights organisations, providing advice and assistance and projects seeking to achieve the goal of a more gender equal society. There is a need to actively tackle harmful stereotypes and norms from an early age, as well as all forms of hate speech and online violence
. Action should be taken to promote the rights of the child and to contribute to the protection of children from harm and violence, which pose a danger to their physical and mental health and constitute a breach of their rights to development, protection and dignity. 
The Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence (the Istanbul Convention) defines violence against women as ‘all acts of gender-based violence that result in, or are likely to result in, physical, sexual, psychological or economic harm or suffering to women, including threats of such acts, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in public or in private life’.
 Combating all forms of violence, promoting 
and
 prevention and protecting and supporting victims are priorities of the Union which help fulfil individuals’ fundamental rights and contribute to equality between women and men. Those priorities should be supported by the Programme. 
Prevention and victims’ rights support should be designed in cooperation with the target group and ensure that they meet the specific needs of those with multiple vulnerabilities.











Amendment 18


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 9 a (new)








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





 










(9a)






Undocumented women are particularly vulnerable to violence and sexual abuse and lack access to support. It is crucial to implement a victim-centred approach and offer adequate support services to all women throughout the Union, regardless of their residence status. The need for a gender-sensitive perspective in asylum processes is very important for intersectional work and can contribute to increased gender equality.











Amendment 19


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 10








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(10)


Strong political will and coordinated action based on the methods and results of the previous Daphne Programmes, the Rights, Equality and Citizenship Programme and the Justice Programme are necessary in order to prevent and combat all forms of violence and to protect victims. In particular, since its launch in 1997, the Daphne funding to support victims of violence and combat the violence against women, children and young people has been a genuine success, both in terms of its popularity with stakeholders (public authorities, academic institutions and non-governmental organisations) and in terms of the effectiveness of the funded projects. It has funded projects to raise awareness, to provide support services to victims, to support the activities of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) working on the ground. It has addressed all forms of violence, such as for instance domestic violence, sexual violence, trafficking in human beings, as well as new emerging forms of violence such as cyber-bullying. It is therefore important to continue all these actions and that those results and lessons learned are taken into due consideration in the implementation of the Programme.












(10)


Strong political will and coordinated action based on the methods and results of the previous Daphne Programmes, the Rights, Equality and Citizenship Programme and the Justice Programme are necessary in order to prevent and combat all forms of violence and to protect victims. In particular, since its launch in 1997, the Daphne funding to support victims of violence and combat the violence against women, children and young people has been a genuine success, both in terms of its popularity with stakeholders (public authorities, academic institutions and non-governmental organisations) and in terms of the effectiveness of the funded projects. It has funded projects to raise awareness, to provide support services to victims, to support the activities of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) working on the ground. It has addressed all forms of violence, such as for instance domestic violence, sexual violence, trafficking in human beings, 
stalking and traditional harmful practices such as FGM,
 as well as new emerging forms of violence such as cyber-bullying 
and cyber harassment
. It is therefore important to continue all these actions 
with an independent budget allocation for Daphne
 and that those results and lessons learned are taken into due consideration in the implementation of the Programme.









Amendment 20


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 11








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(11)


Non-discrimination is a fundamental principle of the Union. Article 19 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union provides for action to combat discrimination based on sex, racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation. Non-discrimination is also enshrined in Article 21 of the Charter. The specific features of the diverse forms of discrimination should be taken into account and appropriate action should be developed in parallel to prevent and combat discrimination on one or more grounds. The Programme should support actions to prevent and combat discrimination, racism, xenophobia, anti-semitism, anti-muslim hatred and other forms of intolerance. In that context, particular attention should also be devoted to preventing and combating all forms of violence, hatred, segregation and stigmatisation, as well as combating bullying, harassment and intolerant treatment. The Programme should be implemented in a mutually reinforcing manner with other Union activities that have the same objectives, in particular with those referred to in the Commission Communication of 5 April 2011 entitled ‘An EU Framework for National Roma Integration Strategies up to 2020 (10)’ and in the Council Recommendation of 09 December 2013 on effective Roma integration measures in the Member States (11) .












(11)


Non-discrimination is a fundamental principle of the Union. Article 19 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union provides for action to combat discrimination based on sex, racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation. Non-discrimination is also enshrined in Article 21 of the Charter. The specific features of the diverse forms of discrimination
, including direct, indirect and structural discrimination,
 should be taken into account and appropriate action should be developed in parallel to prevent and combat discrimination on one or more grounds. The Programme should support actions to prevent and combat discrimination, racism, xenophobia, 
afrophobia,
 anti-semitism
, anti-ziganism
, anti-muslim hatred
, homophobia
 and other forms of intolerance, 
both on-line and off-line, against persons belonging to minorities, taking into account the multiple levels of discrimination faced by women
. In that context, particular attention should also be devoted to preventing and combating all forms of violence, hatred, segregation and stigmatisation, as well as combating bullying, harassment and intolerant treatment. The Programme should be implemented in a mutually reinforcing manner with other Union activities that have the same objectives, in particular with those referred to in the Commission Communication of 5 April 2011 entitled ‘An EU Framework for National Roma Integration Strategies up to 2020 (10)’ and in the Council Recommendation of 09 December 2013 on effective Roma integration measures in the Member States (11).









Amendment 21


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 12








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(12)


Attitudinal and environmental barriers as well as lack of accessibility hinder the full and effective participation of 
people
 with disabilities in society, on an equal basis with others. 
People
 with disabilities are faced with barriers to, among other things, access the labour market, benefit from an inclusive and quality education, avoid poverty and social exclusion, enjoy access to cultural initiatives and media, or use their political rights. As a party to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (the UNCRPD), the Union and all its Member States have committed to promote, protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities. The provisions of the UNCRPD have become an integral part of the Union legal order.












(12)


Attitudinal and environmental barriers as well as lack of accessibility hinder the full and effective participation of 
persons
 with disabilities in society, on an equal basis with others. 
People
 with disabilities
, including those who have long-term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairments,
 are faced with barriers to, among other things, access the labour market, benefit from an inclusive and quality education, avoid poverty and social exclusion, enjoy access to cultural initiatives and media, or use their political rights. As a party to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (the UNCRPD), the Union and all its Member States have committed to promote, protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities. The provisions of the UNCRPD
, the implementation of which is mandatory,
 have become an integral part of the Union legal order. 
In this regard the Programme should pay special attention to and fund awareness raising activities for the challenges people with disabilities face in participating fully in society and enjoying their rights as equal citizens.











Amendment 22


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 13








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(13)


The right to respect for his or her private and family life, home and communications (right to privacy) is a fundamental right enshrined in Article 7 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights. The protection of personal data is a fundamental right enshrined in Article 8 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights and Article 16 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union. Compliance with the rules for the protection of personal data is subject to the control by independent supervisory authorities. The Unions’ legal framework, in particular Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council (12) and Directive (EU) 2016/680 of the European Parliament and of the Council (13) lay down provisions to ensure that the right to protection of personal data is effectively protected. These legal instruments entrust the national data protection supervisory authorities with the task of promoting public awareness and understanding of the risks, rules, safeguards and rights in relation to the processing of personal data. The Union should be able to conduct awareness-raising activities, carry out studies and other relevant activities given the importance of the right to the protection of personal data in times of rapid technological developments.












(13)


The right to respect for his or her private and family life, home and communications (right to privacy) is a fundamental right enshrined in Article 7 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights. The protection of personal data is a fundamental right enshrined in Article 8 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights and Article 16 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union. Compliance with the rules for the protection of personal data is subject to the control by independent supervisory authorities. The Unions’ legal framework, in particular Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council (12) and Directive (EU) 2016/680 of the European Parliament and of the Council (13) lay down provisions to ensure that the right to protection of personal data is effectively protected. These legal instruments entrust the national data protection supervisory authorities with the task of promoting public awareness and understanding of the risks, rules, safeguards and rights in relation to the processing of personal data. The Union should be able to conduct awareness-raising activities, 
support civil society organisations in advocating for data protection in line with Union standards, and
 carry out studies and other relevant activities given the importance of the right to the protection of personal data in times of rapid technological developments.









Amendment 23


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 13 a (new)








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





 










(13a)






Freedom of expression and information is enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union. Free access to information, evaluation of media framework conditions, and the responsible and safe use of information and communication networks are directly linked to the free development of public opinion and are essential for guaranteeing a functional democracy. It is necessary for the public to acquire the media literacy skills necessary for critical thinking and discernment and the ability to analyse complex realities, recognise differences between opinions and facts and resist any form of incitement to hatred. To this end, the Union should promote the development of media literacy for all citizens, regardless of their age, through training, awareness raising, studies and other relevant activities.











Amendment 24


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 14








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(14)


Article 24 TFEU obliges the European Parliament and the Council to adopt provisions for the procedures and conditions required for a citizen's initiative within the meaning of Article 11 of the Treaty on European Union. This has been done by adopting Regulation [(EU) No 211/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council (14). The Programme should support the financing of technical and organisational support to implement Regulation [(EU) No 211/2011], thereby underpinning the exercise by citizens of the right to launch and support European citizens’ initiatives.












(14)




The European citizens’ initiative is the first supranational instrument of participative democracy, creating a direct link between European citizens and the Union institutions.
 Article 24 TFEU obliges the European Parliament and the Council to adopt provisions for the procedures and conditions required for a citizen's initiative within the meaning of Article 11 of the Treaty on European Union. This has been done by adopting Regulation [(EU) No 211/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council (14). The Programme should support the financing of technical and organisational support to implement Regulation [(EU) No 211/2011], thereby underpinning the exercise by citizens of the right to launch, support 
and encourage others to support
 European citizens’ initiatives.









Amendment 25


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 15








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(15)


Pursuant to Articles 8 and 10 TFEU, the Programme in all its activities should support gender mainstreaming and the mainstreaming of non-discrimination objectives.












(15)


Pursuant to Articles 8 and 10 TFEU, the Programme in all its activities should support gender mainstreaming and the mainstreaming of non-discrimination objectives 
and should also promote the use of gender budgeting and gender impact assessment where necessary throughout the Union budgetary process
. 
The proper implementation of gender mainstreaming requires gender budgeting in all relevant budget lines and the allocation of adequate resources and transparency in the budget lines dedicated to promoting gender equality and to combating gender-based discrimination. The individual projects and the Programme as such should be reviewed at the end of the funding period to determine the extent to which they have served the principles noted above.











Amendment 26


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 17








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(17)


In accordance with Union acts on equal treatment, Member States set up independent bodies for the promotion of equal treatment, commonly known as ‘equality bodies’, in order to combat discrimination based on race and ethnic origin as well as gender. However, many Member States have gone beyond these requirements and ensured that equality bodies can also deal with discrimination based on the other grounds such as age, sexual orientation, religion and belief, disability or other grounds. Equality bodies play a key role in promoting equality and ensuring effective application of equal treatment legislation by providing in particular an independent assistance to victims of discrimination, conducting independent surveys concerning discrimination, publishing independent reports and making recommendations on any issue relating to discrimination in their country. It is essential that the work of equality bodies is coordinated at Union level in this respect. EQUINET was created in 2007. Its members are the national bodies for the promotion of equal treatment as established by Council Directives 2000/43/EC (15) and 2004/113/EC (16), and by Directives 2006/54/EC (17) and 2010/41/EU (18) of the European Parliament and of the Council. EQUINET is in an exceptional situation, being the only entity which ensures coordination of activities between equality bodies. This coordination activity by EQUINET is key for the good implementation of Union anti-discrimination law in Member States and should be supported by the Programme.












(17)


In accordance with Union acts on equal treatment, Member States set up independent bodies for the promotion of equal treatment, commonly known as ‘equality bodies’, in order to combat discrimination based on race and ethnic origin as well as gender. However, many Member States have gone beyond these requirements and ensured that equality bodies can also deal with discrimination based on the other grounds such as 
language,
 age, sexual orientation, religion and belief, disability or other grounds. Equality bodies play a key role in promoting equality and ensuring effective application of equal treatment legislation by providing in particular an independent assistance to victims of discrimination, conducting independent surveys concerning discrimination, publishing independent reports and making recommendations on any issue relating to discrimination in their country. It is essential that the work of 
all those relevant
 equality bodies is coordinated at Union level in this respect. EQUINET was created in 2007. Its members are the national bodies for the promotion of equal treatment as established by Council Directives 2000/43/EC (15) and 2004/113/EC (16), and by Directives 2006/54/EC (17) and 2010/41/EU (18) of the European Parliament and of the Council. 
On 22 June 2018 the Commission adopted its recommendation on standards for equality bodies, covering the mandate, independence, effectiveness and coordination and cooperation of equality bodies.
 EQUINET is in an exceptional situation, being the only entity which ensures coordination of activities between equality bodies. This coordination activity by EQUINET is key for the good implementation of Union anti-discrimination law in Member States and should be supported by the Programme.

























Amendment 27


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 17 a (new)








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





 










(17a)






In order to increase accessibility and provide impartial guidance and practical information in relation to all aspects of the Programme, contact points should be set up in Member States to provide assistance to both beneficiaries and applicants. Programme contact points should be able to carry out their functions independently, without direct subordination or interference in their decision making from public authorities. It is possible for programme contact points to be managed by Member States or civil society organisations or consortia thereof. Programme contact points are not to have any responsibility regarding project selection;











Amendment 28


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 18








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(18)


Independent human rights bodies 
and
 civil society organisations play an essential role in promoting, safeguarding and raising awareness of the Union’s common values under Article 2 TEU, and in contributing to the effective enjoyment of rights under Union law, including the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU. As reflected in the European Parliament Resolution of 
18
 April 2018, adequate financial support is key to the development of a conducive and sustainable environment for civil society organisations to strengthen their role and perform their functions independently and effectively. Complementing efforts at national level, EU funding should therefore contribute to support, empower and build the capacity of independent civil society organisations active in the promotion of 
human
 rights whose activities help the strategic enforcement of rights under EU law and the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU, including through advocacy and watchdog activities, as well as to promote, safeguard and raise awareness of the Union’s common values at national level.












(18)


Independent human rights bodies, civil society organisations 
and human rights defenders
 play an essential role in promoting, safeguarding and raising awareness of the Union’s common values under Article 2 TEU, and in contributing to the effective enjoyment of rights under Union law, including the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU. As reflected in the European Parliament Resolution of 
19
 April 2018, 
an increase in funding and
 adequate financial support is key to the development of a conducive and sustainable environment for civil society organisations to strengthen their role and perform their functions independently and effectively. Complementing efforts at national level, EU funding should therefore contribute to support, empower and build 
, including through adequate core funding and simplified cost options, financial rules and procedures,
 the capacity of independent civil society organisations active in the promotion of 
Union values such as democracy, rule of law and fundamental
 rights whose activities help the strategic enforcement of rights under EU law and the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU, including through advocacy and watchdog activities, as well as to promote, safeguard and raise awareness of the Union’s common values at 
local, regional,
 national 
and transnational
 level.









Amendment 29


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 19








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(19)


The Commission should ensure overall consistency, complementarity and synergies with the work of Union bodies, offices and agencies, in particular the European Institute for Gender Equality and the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights, and should take stock of the work of other national and international actors in the areas covered by the Programme.












(19)


The Commission should ensure overall consistency, complementarity and synergies with the work of Union bodies, offices and agencies, in particular the European Institute for Gender Equality and the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights, and should take stock of the work of other national and international actors in the areas covered by the Programme. 
The Commission should actively guide participants of this Programme to use the reports and resources generated by these Union bodies, offices and agencies, such as the gender budgeting and gender assessment tools developed by the European Institute for Gender Equality.











Amendment 30


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 19 a (new)








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





 










(19 a)






A comprehensive Union mechanism on democracy, rule of law and fundamental rights should guarantee the regular and equal review of all Member States, providing the necessary information for the activation of measures related to general deficiencies of Union values in Member States.











Amendment 31


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 20








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(20)


The Programme should be open, subject to certain conditions, to the participation of European Free Trade Association (EFTA) members which are members of the European Economic Area (EEA) and EFTA members which are not members of the EEA and other European countries. Acceding countries, candidate countries and potential candidate countries benefiting from a pre-accession strategy should also be able to participate in the Programme.












(20)




As regards the implementation of the specific objectives of promoting gender equality and rights, promoting citizens’ engagement and participation in the democratic life of the Union at local, regional, national and transnational level as well as combating violence,
 the Programme should be open, subject to certain conditions, to the participation of European Free Trade Association (EFTA) members which are members of the European Economic Area (EEA) and EFTA members which are not members of the EEA and other European countries. Acceding countries, candidate countries and potential candidate countries benefiting from a pre-accession strategy should also be able to participate in the Programme.









Amendment 32


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 21








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(21)


In order to ensure efficient allocation of funds from the general budget of the Union, it is necessary to ensure the European added value of all actions carried out, 
their
 complementarity 
to
 Member States’ actions
, while consistency, complementarity and synergies shall be sought
 with funding programmes supporting policy areas with close links to 
each other, in particular within the
 Justice, Rights and Values Fund 
— and thus with the Justice Programme — as well as
 with Creative Europe programme, and Erasmus+ 
to realise the potential of cultural crossovers in the fields of culture, media, arts, education and creativity. It is necessary to create synergies with other European funding programmes, in particular in the fields of employment, internal market, enterprise, youth, health, citizenship, justice, migration, security, research, innovation, technology, industry, cohesion, tourism, external relations, trade and development
.












(21)


In order to ensure efficient allocation of funds from the general budget of the Union, it is necessary to ensure the European added value of all actions carried out, 
including on local, national and international levels, directed at promoting and safeguarding the values enshrined in Article 2 TEU. The Commission should seek consistency, synergies and
 complementarity 
with
 Member States’ actions 
and
 with 
other
 funding programmes supporting policy areas with close links to Justice, Rights and Values Fund
, including
 with Creative Europe programme, and Erasmus+
, as well as with relevant policies of the Union
.









Amendment 33


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 21 a (new)








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





 










(21a)






Pursuant to Article 9 TFEU a high level of employment, the guarantee of adequate social protection and the fight against social exclusion should be promoted. Actions under the Programme therefore should promote synergies between the fight against poverty, social exclusion and exclusion from the labour market and the promotion of equality and fight against all forms of discrimination. Therefore, the implementation of the Programme should be carried out in a way to ensure a maximum of synergies and complementarities both between its different strands and with the European Social Fund Plus. Furthermore, synergies should be ensured with both Erasmus and the European Social Fund Plus in order to ensure that these funds jointly contribute to delivering high quality education and ensuring equal opportunities for all.











Amendment 34


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 22 a (new)








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





 










(22 a)






It is important to ensure sound financial management of the programme and its implementation in the most effective and user-friendly manner possible, while also ensuring legal certainty and the accessibility of the programme to all participants.











Amendment 35


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 22 b (new)








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





 










(22 b)






Improving implementation and quality of spending should constitute guiding principles for achieving the objectives of the programme while ensuring optimal use of the financial resources.











Amendment 36


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 23








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(23)


Regulation (EU, Euratom) No [the new FR] (the ‘Financial Regulation’) applies to this Programme. It lays down rules on the implementation of the Union budget, including the rules on grants, prizes, procurement, indirect implementation, financial assistance, financial instruments and budgetary guarantees.












(23)


Regulation (EU, Euratom) No [the new FR] (the ‘Financial Regulation’) applies to this Programme. It lays down rules on the implementation of the Union budget, including the rules on grants, prizes, procurement, indirect implementation, financial assistance, financial instruments and budgetary guarantees 
and demands full transparency with respect to the use of resources, sound financial management and prudent use of resources
. 
In particular, rules concerning the possibility for local, regional, national and transnational civil society organisations, including for local grassroot civil society organisations, to be funded through multiannual operating grants, cascading grants (financial support for third parties) and provisions ensuring fast and flexible grant-making procedures, such as a two-step-application procedure, user-friendly applications and reporting procedures, should be operationalised and further strengthened as part of the implementation of this Programme.











Amendment 37


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 24








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(24)


The types of financing and the methods of implementation under this Regulation should be chosen on the basis of their ability to achieve the specific objectives of the actions and to deliver results, taking into account, in particular, the costs of controls, the administrative burden, and the expected risk of non-compliance. This should include consideration of the use of lump sums, flat rates 
and
 unit costs, as well as financing not linked to costs as referred to in Article 125(1) of the Financial Regulation. In accordance with the Financial Regulation, Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council (20) Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2988/95 (21) Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/96 (22) and Council Regulation (EU) 2017/1939 (23) the financial interests of the Union are to be protected through proportionate measures, including the prevention, detection, correction and investigation of irregularities and fraud, the recovery of funds lost, wrongly paid or incorrectly used and, where appropriate, the imposition of administrative sanctions. In particular, in accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 and Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/96 the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) may carry out administrative investigations, including on-the-spot checks and inspections, with a view to establishing whether there has been fraud, corruption or any other illegal activity affecting the financial interests of the Union. In accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/1939, the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) may investigate and prosecute fraud and other criminal offences affecting the financial interests of the Union as provided for in Directive (EU) 2017/1371 of the European Parliament and of the Council (24). In accordance with the Financial Regulation, any person or entity receiving Union funds is to fully cooperate in the protection of the Union’s financial interests, to grant the necessary rights and access to the Commission, OLAF, the EPPO and the European Court of Auditors (ECA) and to ensure that any third parties involved in the implementation of Union funds grant equivalent rights.












(24)


The types of financing and the methods of implementation under this Regulation should be chosen on the basis of their ability to achieve the specific objectives of the actions and to deliver results, taking into account, in particular, the costs of controls, the administrative burden, 
the size and capacity of relevant stakeholders and targeted beneficiaries,
 and the expected risk of non-compliance. This should include consideration of the use of lump sums, flat rates, unit costs 
and cascading grants
, as well as 
co-funding criteria which take into account volunteer work and
 financing not linked to costs as referred to in Article 125(1) of the Financial Regulation
. Co-funding requirements should be accepted in kind and may be waived in cases of limited complementary funding
. In accordance with the Financial Regulation, Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council (20) Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2988/95 (21) Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/96 (22) and Council Regulation (EU) 2017/1939 (23) the financial interests of the Union are to be protected through proportionate measures, including the prevention, detection, correction and investigation of irregularities and fraud, the recovery of funds lost, wrongly paid or incorrectly used and, where appropriate, the imposition of administrative sanctions. In particular, in accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 and Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/96 the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) may carry out administrative investigations, including on-the-spot checks and inspections, with a view to establishing whether there has been fraud, corruption or any other illegal activity affecting the financial interests of the Union. In accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/1939, the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) may investigate and prosecute fraud and other criminal offences affecting the financial interests of the Union as provided for in Directive (EU) 2017/1371 of the European Parliament and of the Council (24). In accordance with the Financial Regulation, any person or entity receiving Union funds is to fully cooperate in the protection of the Union’s financial interests, to grant the necessary rights and access to the Commission, OLAF, the EPPO and the European Court of Auditors (ECA) and to ensure that any third parties involved in the implementation of Union funds grant equivalent rights.





























Amendment 38


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 25








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(25)


Third countries which are members of the European Economic Area (EEA) may participate in Union programmes in the framework of the cooperation established under the EEA agreement, which provides for the implementation of the programmes by a decision under that agreement. Third countries may also participate on the basis of other legal instruments. A specific provision should be introduced in this Regulation to grant the necessary rights for and access to the authorizing officer responsible, the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) as well as the European Court of Auditors to comprehensively exert their respective competences.












(25)




In relation to the implementation of the specific objectives of promoting gender equality, rights, citizens’ engagement and participation in the democratic life of the Union at local, regional, national and transnational level and combating violence,
 third countries which are members of the European Economic Area (EEA) may participate in Union programmes in the framework of the cooperation established under the EEA agreement, which provides for the implementation of the programmes by a decision under that agreement. Third countries may also participate on the basis of other legal instruments. A specific provision should be introduced in this Regulation to grant the necessary rights for and access to the authorizing officer responsible, the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) as well as the European Court of Auditors to comprehensively exert their respective competences.









Amendment 39


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 26 a (new)








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





 










(26 a)






The proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and the Council on the protection of the Union's budget in case of generalised deficiencies as regards the rule of law in the Member States aims to equip the Union to better protect its budget when weaknesses in the rule of law impair or threaten to impair sound financial management or the financial interests of the Union. It should complement the Rights and Values programme whose role is different, namely to fund policies in line with fundamental rights and European values that have at its core people's lives and participation.











Amendment 40


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 27








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(27)


Pursuant to [reference to be updated as appropriate according to a new decision on OCTs: Article 94 of Council Decision 2013/755/EU (25)], persons and entities established in overseas countries and territories (OCTs) are eligible for funding subject to the rules and objectives of the Programme and possible arrangements applicable to the Member State to which the relevant overseas country or territory is linked.












(27)


Pursuant to [reference to be updated as appropriate according to a new decision on OCTs: Article 94 of Council Decision 2013/755/EU (25)], persons and entities established in overseas countries and territories (OCTs) are eligible for funding subject to the rules and objectives of the Programme and possible arrangements applicable to the Member State to which the relevant overseas country or territory is linked. 
The constraints arising from the remoteness of OCTs must be taken into account when implementing the Programme, and their effective participation therein must be monitored and regularly evaluated.











Amendment 41


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 28








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(28)


Reflecting the importance of tackling climate change in line with the Union’s commitments to implement the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, this Programme will contribute to mainstream climate action and to the achievement of an overall target of 25 % of the EU budget expenditures supporting climate objectives. Relevant actions will be identified during the Programme’s preparation and implementation, and reassessed in the context of its mid-term evaluation.












(28)


Reflecting the importance of tackling climate change in line with the Union’s commitments to implement the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, this Programme will contribute to mainstream climate action and to the achievement of an overall target of 25 % of the EU budget expenditures supporting climate objectives 
over the MFF 2021-2027 period, and an annual target of 30 % as soon as possible and at the latest by 2027
. Relevant actions will be identified during the Programme’s preparation and implementation, and reassessed in the context of its mid-term evaluation.









Amendment 42


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 29








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(29)


Pursuant to paragraph 22 and 23 of the Inter-institutional agreement for Better Law-Making of 13 April 2016, there is a need to evaluate this Programme on the basis of information collected through specific monitoring requirements, while avoiding overregulation and administrative burdens, in particular on Member States. These requirements, where appropriate, can include measurable indicators, as a basis for evaluating the effects of the Programme on the ground.












(29)


Pursuant to paragraph 22 and 23 of the Inter-institutional agreement for Better Law-Making of 13 April 2016, there is a need to evaluate this Programme on the basis of information collected through specific monitoring requirements, while avoiding overregulation and administrative burdens, in particular on Member States. 
In this context, examples of applicants and beneficiaries who may not have the adequate resources and staff to meet the monitoring and reporting requirements, could be understood as civil society organisations, local public authorities, social partners, etc.
 These requirements, where appropriate, can include measurable indicators, as a basis for evaluating the effects of the Programme on the ground.









Amendment 43


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 30








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(30)


In order to 
ensure uniform conditions for the implementation of
 this Regulation, the power to adopt acts in accordance with Article 290 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union should be delegated to the Commission in respect of indicators as indicated in 
Article
 14 and 16 and Annex II. It is of particular importance that the Commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work, including at expert level, and that those consultations be conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in the Interinstitutional Agreement on Better Law-Making of 13 April 2016. In particular, to ensure equal participation in the preparation of delegated acts, the European Parliament and the Council receive all documents at the same time as Member States’ experts, and their experts systematically have access to meetings of Commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts.












(30)


In order to 
supplement
 this Regulation 
with a view to carrying out the Programme and ensuring effective assessment of its progress towards the achievement of its objectives
, the power to adopt acts in accordance with Article 290 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union should be delegated to the Commission in respect of 
work programmes pursuant to Article 13 and
 indicators as indicated in 
Articles
 14 and 16 and Annex II. It is of particular importance that the Commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work, including at expert level, and that those consultations be conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in the Interinstitutional Agreement on Better Law-Making of 13 April 2016. In particular, to ensure equal participation in the preparation of delegated acts, the European Parliament and the Council receive all documents at the same time as Member States’ experts, and their experts systematically have access to meetings of Commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts.









Amendment 44


Proposal for a regulation


Recital 31








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment













(31)






In order to ensure uniform conditions for the implementation of this Regulation, implementing powers should be conferred on the Commission. Those powers should be exercised in accordance with Regulation (EU) No 182/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council

 (26)

.










deleted







Amendment 45


Proposal for a regulation


Article 1 — paragraph 1








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





This Regulation establishes the Rights and Values programme (‘Programme’).


This Regulation establishes the 
Citizens, Equality,
 Rights and Values programme (‘Programme’).





Amendment 46


Proposal for a regulation


Article 1 — paragraph 2








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





It lays down the objectives of the Programme, the budget for the period 2021 — 2027, the forms of Union funding and the 
rules
 for providing such funding.


It lays down the objectives 
and scope
 of the Programme, the budget for the period 2021 — 2027, the forms of Union funding and the 
conditions
 for providing such funding.





Amendment 47


Proposal for a regulation


Article 2 — paragraph 1








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment






1.   The general objective of the Programme is to protect and promote rights and values as enshrined in the 
EU
 Treaties, including by supporting civil society organisations, in order to sustain 
open
, democratic and inclusive societies.




1.   The general objective of the Programme is to protect and promote rights and values as enshrined in the Treaties, including 
democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights as enshrined in Article 2 TEU, in particular
 by supporting 
and building the capacity of
 civil society organisations 
at local, regional, national and transnational level, especially at grassroot level, and by encouraging civic and democratic participation
, in order to sustain 
and further develop open, rights-based
, democratic
, equal
 and inclusive societies.






Amendment 48


Proposal for a regulation


Article 2 — paragraph 2 — point -a (new)








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





 










(-a)





to protect and promote democracy and the rule of law at local, regional, national and transnational level (Union values strand),










Amendment 49


Proposal for a regulation


Article 2 — paragraph 2 — point a








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(a)


to promote equality 
and
 rights (Equality 
and
 rights strand),












(a)


to promote equality
, including gender equality,
 rights
, non-discrimination and advance gender mainstreaming
 (Equality
, Rights and Gender Equality
 strand),









Amendment 50


Proposal for a regulation


Article 2 — paragraph 2 — point b








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(b)


to promote 
citizens
 engagement 
and
 participation in the democratic life of the Union (
Citizens' engagement and participation
 strand),












(b)




to raise citizens’, in particular young people’s, awareness of the importance of the Union through activities aimed at keeping alive remembrance of the historic events that led to its creation, and
 to promote 
democracy, freedom of expression, pluralism, civic
 engagement 
as well as meetings of citizens and their active
 participation in the democratic life of the Union (
Active Citizenship
 strand);









Amendment 51


Proposal for a regulation


Article 2 — paragraph 2 — point c








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(c)


to fight violence (Daphne strand).












(c)


to fight 
violence, including gender-based
 violence (Daphne strand).









Amendment 52


Proposal for a regulation


Article 2 a (new)








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





 




Article 2 a






 




Union values strand






 




Within the general objective set out in Article 2(1) and within the specific objective set out in point (-a) of Article 2(2), the Programme shall focus on:






 










(a)






protecting and promoting democracy and the rule of law, including by supporting activities by civil society which promote the independence of the judiciary and an effective judicial protection by independent courts, including of fundamental rights; providing support for independent human rights defenders and civil society organisations undertaking monitoring compliance with the rule of law, for whistleblower defence and for initiatives that promote the shared culture of transparency, good governance and fight against corruption;










 










(b)






promoting the construction of a more democratic Union as well as protecting and raising awareness of the rights and values enshrined in the Treaties by providing financial support to independent civil society organisations which promote and cultivate these rights and values at local, regional, national and transnational level, thereby creating an environment that enables democratic dialogue and strengthening freedom of expression, peaceful assembly or association, media freedom and pluralism of the media, and academic freedom.











Amendment 53


Proposal for a regulation


Article 3 — title








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





Equality and rights strand


Equality, 
Rights and Gender Equality
 strand





Amendment 54


Proposal for a regulation


Article 3 — paragraph 1 — introductory part








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





Within the specific objective set out in point (a) of Article 2(2), the Programme shall focus on:




Within the general objective set out in Article 2(1) and
 within the specific objective set out in point (a) of Article 2(2), the Programme shall focus on:





Amendment 55


Proposal for a regulation


Article 3 — paragraph 1 — point a








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(a)


preventing and combating inequalities and discrimination on grounds of sex, racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation, and supporting comprehensive policies to promote 
gender
 equality and anti-discrimination and their mainstreaming as well policies to combat racism and all forms of intolerance;












(a)




promoting equality and
 preventing and combating inequalities and discrimination on grounds of sex, racial
, social
 or ethnic origin
, colour, genetic features, language
, religion or belief, 
political or any other opinion, membership of a national minority, property, birth,
 disability, age, or sexual orientation 
or any other grounds
 and supporting comprehensive policies to promote equality and anti-discrimination and their mainstreaming as well 
as
 policies to combat racism and all forms of intolerance
, both online and offline
;









Amendment 56


Proposal for a regulation


Article 3 — paragraph 1 — point a a (new)








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





 










(a a)






supporting comprehensive policies and programmes to promote women’s rights, gender equality, women’s empowerment and gender mainstreaming;











Amendment 57


Proposal for a regulation


Article 4 — title








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment







Citizens engagement and participation
 strand




Active Citizenship
 strand





Amendment 58


Proposal for a regulation


Article 4 — paragraph 1 — introductory part








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





Within the specific objective set out in point (b) of Article 2(2), the Programme shall 
focus on
:


Within the specific objective set out in point (a) of Article 2(2), the Programme shall 
pursue the following objectives
:





Amendment 59


Proposal for a regulation


Article 4 — paragraph 1 — point a








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(a)




increasing
 citizens’ understanding of the Union, its 
history, cultural heritage and diversity
;












(a)




supporting projects put forward by citizens, with a particular focus on young people, aimed at encouraging people to not only remember the events that preceded the establishment of the Union, which build the core of its historical memory, but also to learn more about their shared history, culture and values, and to get a sense of the wealth of their common cultural heritage and of the cultural and linguistic diversity, which constitute the foundation for a common future; fostering
 citizens’ understanding of the Union, its 
origins, raison d’être and achievements, and increasing their awareness of its present and future challenges, and of the importance of mutual understanding and tolerance, which are at the very heart of the European project
;









Amendment 60


Proposal for a regulation


Article 4 — paragraph 1 — point a a (new)








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





 










(aa)






promoting and supporting exchanges of good practice regarding formal and informal education for European citizenship;











Amendment 61


Proposal for a regulation


Article 4 — paragraph 1 — point b








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(b)


promoting 
exchange and
 cooperation between 
citizens
 of different countries
; to promote
 citizens’ 
civic and democratic participation allowing citizens and representative associations to make known and publicly exchange their views in all areas of Union action;














(b)


promoting 
public dialogue through town twinning, meetings of citizens, in particular young people, and through
 cooperation between 
municipalities, local communities and civil society organisations
 of different countries
, so as to afford them direct practical experience of the wealth of cultural diversity and heritage in the Union, and to increase
 citizens’ 
engagement in society











Amendment 62


Proposal for a regulation


Article 4 — paragraph 1 — point b a (new)








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





 










(ba)






encouraging and enhancing civic participation in the democratic life of the Union on local, national and transnational levels; allowing citizens and associations to promote intercultural dialogue and conduct proper public debates about all areas of Union action, thereby contributing to shaping the political agenda of the Union; supporting organised joint initiatives in the form of both citizens’ associations and networks of legal entities to implement more effectively the objectives set out in the previous paragraphs;











Amendment 63


Proposal for a regulation


Article 5 — paragraph 1 — introductory part








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





Within the specific objective set out in point (c) of Article 2(2), the Programme shall focus on:




Within the general objective set out in Article 2(1) and
 within the specific objective set out in point (c) of Article 2(2), the Programme shall focus on:





Amendment 64


Proposal for a regulation


Article 5 — paragraph 1 — point -a (new)








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





 










(-a)





preventing and combating all forms of gender-based violence against women and promoting the full implementation of the Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence (the Istanbul Convention) at all levels; and










Amendment 65


Proposal for a regulation


Article 5 — paragraph 1 — point a








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(a)


preventing and combating all forms of violence against children, young people 
and women
, as well as violence against other groups at risk;












(a)


preventing and combating all forms of violence against children, young people, as well as violence against other groups at risk
, such as LGBTQI persons, persons with disabilities, minorities, elderly people, and migrants and refugees
;









Amendment 66


Proposal for a regulation


Article 5 — paragraph 1 — point b








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(b)


supporting and protecting victims of such violence.












(b)


supporting and protecting victims of such violence
, including by supporting the activities of civil society organisations that facilitate and ensure access to justice, to victim support services and to safe police reporting for all victims of violence, and supporting and ensuring the same level of protection throughout the Union for victims of gender-based violence
.









Amendment 67


Proposal for a regulation


Article 6 — paragraph 1








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment






1.   The financial envelope for the implementation of the Programme for the period 2021 — 2027 shall be EUR [
641 705 000 
] in current prices.




1.   The financial envelope for the implementation of the Programme for the period 2021 — 2027 shall be EUR [
1 627 000 000 
] 
in 2018 prices [EUR 1 834 000 000 
 in current prices].






Amendment 68


Proposal for a regulation


Article 6 — paragraph 2 — point -a (new)








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





 










(-a)





EUR [754 062 000  in 2018 prices] [EUR 850 000 000  in current prices] (i.e. 46,34  % of the total financial envelope) for the specific objectives referred to in point (-a) of Article 2(2);










Amendment 69


Proposal for a regulation


Article 6 — paragraph 2 — point a








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(a)


EUR [
408 705 000 
] for the specific objectives referred to in article 
2(2)(a) and 2(2)(c)
;












(a)


EUR [
429 372 000  in 2018 prices
] 
[EUR 484 000 000 ] (i.e. 26,39  % of the total financial envelope)
 for the specific objectives referred to in 
points (a) and (c) of
 Article 
2(2)
;









Amendment 70


Proposal for a regulation


Article 6 — paragraph 2 — point b








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(b)


EUR [
233 000 000 
] for the specific 
objective
 referred to in Article 
2(2)(b);














(b)


EUR [
443 566 000  in 2018 prices
] 
[EUR 500 000 000 ] (i.e. 27,26  % of the total financial envelope)
 for the specific 
objectives
 referred to in 
point (b) of
 Article 
2(2).











Amendment 71


Proposal for a regulation


Article 6 — paragraph 2 — subparagraph 1 a (new)








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





 




The Commission shall allocate at least 50 % of the amounts referred to in points (-a) and (a) of the first subparagraph of this paragraph to support activities carried out by civil society organisations, of which at least 65 % shall be allocated to local and regional civil society organisations.






 




The Commission shall not depart from the allocated percentages of the financial envelope, as set out in Annex I(-a) by more than five percentage points. Should it prove necessary to exceed that limit, the Commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with Article 16 to amend Annex 1(-a) by modifying by between five and ten percentage points the allocated percentages of Programme funds.







Amendment 72


Proposal for a regulation


Article 6 — paragraph 5








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment






5.   Resources allocated to Member States under shared management may, at their request, be transferred to the Programme. The Commission shall implement those resources directly in accordance with Article 62(1)(a) of the Financial Regulation 
or indirectly in accordance with Article 62(1)(c)
. Where possible those resources shall be used for the benefit of the Member State 
concerned
.




5.   Resources allocated to Member States under shared management may, at their 
request or at the Commission's
 request, be transferred to the Programme. The Commission shall implement those resources directly in accordance with Article 62(1)(a) of the Financial Regulation. Where possible, those resources shall be used for the benefit of the Member State.






Amendment 73


Proposal for a regulation


Article 6 a (new)








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





 




Article 6 a






 




Values Support Mechanism






 





1.
   
In exceptional cases, where there is a serious and rapid deterioration in a Member State as regards compliance with Union values enshrined in Article 2 TEU, and those values are at risk of not being sufficiently protected and promoted, the Commission may open a call for proposals in the form of a fast-track procedure for grant applications for civil society organisations, with a view to facilitate, support and enhance the democratic dialogue in the Member State in question and to address the problem of insufficient compliance with the values enshrined in Article 2 TEU.







 





2.
   
The Commission shall earmark up to 5 % of the amounts referred to in Article 6(2)(-a) to the values support mechanism referred to in paragraph 1 of this Article. At the end of every budgetary year, the Commission shall transfer any non-committed funds under this mechanism to support other actions which fall under the objectives of the Programme.







 





3.
   
The Commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with Article 16 to trigger the values support mechanism referred to in paragraph 1 of this Article. The activation of the mechanism shall be based on a comprehensive, regular and evidence-based monitoring and evaluation of the situation in all Member States as regards democracy, rule of law and fundamental rights.








Amendment 74


Proposal for a regulation


Article 8 — paragraph 1








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment






1.   The Programme shall be implemented in direct management in accordance with the Financial Regulation or in indirect management with bodies referred to in Article 
61(1)(c)
 of the Financial Regulation.




1.   The Programme shall be implemented in direct management in accordance with the Financial Regulation or in indirect management with bodies referred to in 
point (c) of
 Article 
62(1)
 of the Financial Regulation.






Amendment 75


Proposal for a regulation


Article 8 — paragraph 2








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment






2.   The Programme may provide funding in any of the forms laid down in the Financial Regulation.




2.   The Programme may provide funding in any of the forms laid down in the Financial Regulation
, primarily through action grants as well as annual and multiannual operating grants
. 
That funding shall be implemented in such a way as to ensure sound financial management, prudent use of public funds, lower levels of administrative burden for the Programme operator and for beneficiaries, as well as accessibility of the Programme funds to potential beneficiaries. Lump sums, unit costs, flat rates and cascading grants (financial support to third parties) may be used. Co-funding shall be accepted in kind and may be waived in cases of limited complementary funding.








Amendment 76


Proposal for a regulation


Article 9 — paragraph 1








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





Actions contributing to the achievement of a specific objective specified in Article 2 may receive funding under this Regulation. In particular, activities listed in 
Annex I
 shall be eligible for funding.










1.




Actions contributing to the achievement of a 
general or
 specific objective specified in Article 2 may receive funding under this Regulation. In particular, activities listed in 
Article 9 a (
shall be eligible for funding).









Amendment 77


Proposal for a regulation


Article 9 — paragraph 2 (new)








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





 










2.





In line with Article 11(2) TEU, the Commission shall set up a ‘Civil Dialogue Group’ aimed at ensuring a regular, open and transparent dialogue with the beneficiaries of the Programme and other relevant stakeholders in order to exchange experiences and good practices and to discuss policy developments within the fields and objectives covered by the Programme and related fields.










Amendment 78


Proposal for a regulation


Article 9 a (new)








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





 




Article 9 a






 




Activities eligible for funding






 




The general and specific objectives of the Programme set out in Article 2 will be carried out in particular, but not exclusively, by supporting the following activities:






 










(a)






awareness raising, public education, promotion and dissemination of information to improve the knowledge of the policies, principles and rights within the areas and objectives covered by the Programme;










 










(b)






mutual learning through the exchange of good practices among stakeholders to improve knowledge and mutual understanding and civic and democratic engagement;










 










(c)






analytical monitoring, reporting and advocacy activities to improve the understanding of the situation in Member States and at Union level in the areas covered by the Programme as well as to improve the proper transposition and implementation of Union law, policies and common Union values within Member States, such activities to include for instance the collection of data and statistics; the development of common methodologies and, where appropriate, indicators or benchmarks; studies, research, analyses and surveys; evaluations; impact assessment; the elaboration and publication of guides, reports and educational material;










 










(d)






training relevant stakeholders to improve their knowledge of the policies and rights in the fields covered by the Programme and strengthening relevant stakeholders’ independence and their capacity to advocate for the policies and rights in the fields covered by the Programme, including through strategic litigation;










 










(e)






promoting public awareness and understanding of the risks, rules, safeguards and rights in relation to the protection of personal data, privacy, and digital security;










 










(f)






strengthening citizen's awareness of European core values and their commitment to justice, equality, rule of law and democracy as well as of their rights and obligations derived from Union citizenship, such as the right to travel, work, study and live in another Member State, through information campaigns and the promotion of mutual understanding, intercultural dialogue and respect for diversity within the Union;










 










(g)






strengthening awareness among citizens, especially young people, of European culture, cultural heritage, identity, history and remembrance, and reinforcing their sense of belonging in the Union, particularly through initiatives to reflect on the causes of totalitarian regimes in Europe’s modern history and to commemorate the victims of those crimes, perpetrated injustices, and activities concerning other defining moments in recent European history;










 










(h)






bringing together citizens of different nationalities and cultures by giving them the opportunity to participate in town-twinning activities and small scale and civil society projects, thus creating the conditions for a stronger bottom-up approach;










 










(i)






encouraging and facilitating active and inclusive participation, with particular attention to marginalised groups of society, in the construction of a more democratic Union, as well as raising awareness and promoting and defending fundamental rights, rights and values through support to civil society organisations active in the areas covered by the Programme at all levels, as well as developing the capacity of European networks and civil society organisations to contribute to the development, awareness raising and monitoring of the implementation of Union law, policy goals, values and strategies;










 










(j)






financing the technical and organisational support to implement Regulation [(EU) No 211/2011], thereby underpinning the exercise by citizens of the right to launch and support European citizens’ initiatives;










 










(k)






enhancing knowledge of the Programme and dissemination and transferability of its results and fostering citizen and civil society outreach, including by setting up and supporting independent programme contact points;










 










(l)






strengthening the capacity and independence of human rights defenders and civil society organisations monitoring the situation of the rule of law and supporting actions at local, regional, national and transnational levels;










 










(m)






supporting whistleblower defence, including initiatives and measures to establish safe channels for reporting within organisations and to public authorities or other relevant bodies, as well as measures to protect whistleblowers against dismissal, demotion or other forms of retaliation, including through information and training for relevant public authorities and stakeholders;










 










(n)






supporting initiatives and measures to promote and protect freedom and pluralism of the media and to build capacity for new challenges such as new media and countering hate speech as well as targeted misinformation through awareness raising, training, studies and monitoring activities;










 










(o)






supporting civil society organisations active in promoting and monitoring integrity, transparency and accountability of public administration and public authorities, and in fighting corruption;










 










(p)






supporting organisations helping, housing and protecting victims of violence and people under threat, including to women's’ shelters.











Amendment 79


Proposal for a regulation


Article 10 — paragraph 1








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment






1.   Grants under the Programme shall be awarded and managed in accordance with Title VIII of the Financial Regulation.




1.   Grants under the Programme shall be awarded and managed in accordance with Title VIII of the Financial Regulation 
and shall include action grants, multiannual operating grants and cascading grants
.






Amendment 80


Proposal for a regulation


Article 10 — paragraph 2








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment






2.   The evaluation committee may be composed of external experts.




2.   The evaluation committee may be composed of external experts. 
The composition of the evaluation committee shall ensure gender balance.








Amendment 81


Proposal for a regulation


Article 11 — paragraph 1








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment






1.   An action that has received a contribution under the Programme may also receive a contribution from any other Union programme, including Funds under shared management, provided that the contributions do not cover the same costs. [The cumulative financing shall not exceed the total eligible costs of the action and the support from different Union programmes may be calculated on a pro-rata basis].




1.   An action that has received a contribution under the Programme may also receive a contribution from any other Union programme, including Funds under shared management, provided that the contributions do not cover the same costs
, and double sourcing of funds is avoided by clearly indicating the sources of funding for each category of expenditure, in line with the principle of sound financial management
. [The cumulative financing shall not exceed the total eligible costs of the action and the support from different Union programmes may be calculated on a pro-rata basis].






Amendment 82


Proposal for a regulation


Article 12 — paragraph 2 — point a — indent 1








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











—


a Member State or an overseas country or territory linked to 
it
;












—


a Member State or an overseas country or territory linked to 
a Member State
;









Amendment 83


Proposal for a regulation


Article 12 — paragraph 2 — point a — indent 2








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











—


a third country associated to the Programme;












—




for the specific objectives referred to in points (a) and (c) of Article 2(2),
 a third country associated to the Programme 
in accordance with Article 7 of this Regulation
;









Amendment 84


Proposal for a regulation


Article 12 — paragraph 2 — point b








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment











(b)


any legal entity created under Union law or any international organisation;












(b)


any 
non-profit
 legal entity created under Union law or any international organisation;









Amendment 85


Proposal for a regulation


Article 12 — paragraph 3








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment






3.   An operating grant may be awarded without a call for proposals to 
The
 European Network of Equality Bodies (EQUINET) to cover expenditure associated 
to
 its permanent work programme.




3.   An operating grant may be awarded without a call for proposals to 
the
 European Network of Equality Bodies (EQUINET)
, under Article 6(2)(a),
 to cover expenditure associated 
with
 its permanent work programme, 
provided that a gender impact assessment of their work programme has been completed
.






Amendment 86


Proposal for a regulation


Article 13 — title








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





Work programme


Work programme 
and multiannual priorities







Amendment 87


Proposal for a regulation


Article 13 — paragraph 1








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment






1.   The Programme shall be 
implemented
 by work programmes referred to in Article 110 of Financial Regulation.




1.   The Programme shall be 
carried out
 by work programmes referred to in Article 110 of Financial Regulation.






Amendment 88


Proposal for a regulation


Article 13 — paragraph 1 a (new)








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





 





1a.
   
The Commission shall apply the partnership principle when deciding its priorities under the Programme and provide for a comprehensive involvement of stakeholders into planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of this Programme and its work programmes in accordance with Article 15a.








Amendment 89


Proposal for a regulation


Article 13 — paragraph 2








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment






2.   The 
work programme shall be adopted by the
 Commission 
by means of an implementing act. That implementing act shall be adopted in accordance with the advisory procedure referred to in Article 19.






2.   The Commission 
is empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with Article 16 to supplement this Regulation by establishing the appropriate work programme
.






Amendment 90


Proposal for a regulation


Article 14 — paragraph 1








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment






1.   Indicators to report on progress of the Programme towards the achievement of the specific objectives set out in Article 2 are set out in Annex II.




1.   Indicators to report on progress of the Programme towards the achievement of the specific objectives set out in Article 2 
shall, where applicable, be collected disaggregated by gender. The list of indicators
 are set out in Annex II.






Amendment 91


Proposal for a regulation


Article 14 — paragraph 3








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment






3.   The performance reporting system shall ensure that data for monitoring programme implementation and results are collected efficiently, effectively, and in a timely manner. To that end, proportionate reporting requirements shall be imposed on recipients of Union funds and Member States.




3.   The performance reporting system shall ensure that data for monitoring programme implementation and results are collected efficiently, effectively, and in a timely manner. To that end, proportionate 
and least burdensome
 reporting requirements shall be imposed on recipients of Union funds and Member States. 
In order to facilitate reporting requirements being met, the Commission shall make available user-friendly formats and provide orientation and support programmes particularly targeted to civil society organisations, who may not always have the know-how and adequate resources and staff to meet reporting requirements.








Amendment 92


Proposal for a regulation


Article 15 — paragraph 1








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment






1.   Evaluations shall be carried out in a timely manner to feed into the decision-making process.




1.   Evaluations shall be 
gender sensitive, providing gender-disaggregated figures, include a specific chapter for each strand and take into account the number of people reached, their feedback and their geographical coverage and be
 carried out in a timely manner to feed into the decision-making process.






Amendment 93


Proposal for a regulation


Article 15 — paragraph 2








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment






2.   The interim evaluation of the Programme shall be performed once there is sufficient information available about the implementation of the Programme, but no later than four years after the start of the programme implementation. The 
mid-term
 evaluation shall take into account the results of the evaluations of the long-term impact of the predecessor programmes (Rights Equality and Citizenship and Europe for Citizens).




2.   The interim evaluation of the Programme shall be performed once there is sufficient information available about the implementation of the Programme, but no later than four years after the start of the programme implementation. The 
interim
 evaluation shall take into account the results of the evaluations of the long-term impact of the predecessor programmes (Rights Equality and Citizenship and Europe for Citizens). 
The interim evaluation shall include a gender impact assessment to assess the extent to which gender equality goals of the Programme are being achieved, to ensure no component of the Programme is having unintended negative impacts on gender equality and to identify recommendations for how future calls for proposals and operating grant decisions can be developed to actively promote gender equality considerations.








Amendment 94


Proposal for a regulation


Article 15 — paragraph 4








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment






4.   The Commission shall communicate the conclusions of the evaluations accompanied by its observations, to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions.




4.   The Commission shall communicate the conclusions of the evaluations accompanied by its observations, to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions. 
The Commission shall make the evaluation public and easily accessible by publishing it on its website.








Amendment 95


Proposal for a regulation


Article 16 — paragraph 2








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment






2.   The power to adopt delegated acts referred to in 
Article
 14 shall be conferred on the Commission until 31 December 2027.




2.   The power to adopt delegated acts referred to in 
Articles 13 and
 14 shall be conferred on the Commission until 31 December 2027.






Amendment 96


Proposal for a regulation


Article 16 — paragraph 3








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment






3.   The delegation of power referred to in 
Article
 14 may be revoked at any time by the European Parliament or by the Council. A decision to revoke shall put an end to the delegation of power specified in that decision. It shall take effect the day following the publication of the decision in the Official Journal of the European Union or at a later date specified therein. It shall not affect the validity of any delegated acts already in force.




3.   The delegation of power referred to in 
Articles 13 and
 14 may be revoked at any time by the European Parliament or by the Council. A decision to revoke shall put an end to the delegation of power specified in that decision. It shall take effect the day following the publication of the decision in the Official Journal of the European Union or at a later date specified therein. It shall not affect the validity of any delegated acts already in force.






Amendment 97


Proposal for a regulation


Article 16 — paragraph 4








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment






4.   Before adopting a delegated act, the Commission shall consult experts designated by each Member State in accordance with the principles laid down in the Interinstitutional Agreement on Better Law-Making 
of 13 April 2016
.




4.   Before adopting a delegated act, the Commission shall consult experts designated by each Member State in accordance with the principles laid down in the Interinstitutional Agreement 
of 13 April 2016
 on Better Law-Making. 
The composition of the group of experts consulted shall ensure gender balance. When preparing and drawing up delegated acts, the Commission shall ensure a timely and simultaneous transmission of all documents, including the draft acts, to the European Parliament and the Council at the same time as to Member States' experts. Where they consider this necessary, the European Parliament and the Council may each send experts to meetings of the Commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts to which Member States' experts are invited. To that end, the European Parliament and the Council shall receive the planning for the following months and invitations for all experts meetings.








Amendment 98


Proposal for a regulation


Article 16 — paragraph 5








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment






5.   As soon as it adopts a delegated act, the Commission shall notify it simultaneously to the European Parliament and to the Council.




5.   As soon as it adopts a delegated act, the Commission shall notify it simultaneously to the European Parliament and to the Council. 
Based on the Interinstitutional Agreement of 13 April 2016 on Better Law-Making, citizens and other stakeholders may express their opinion on the draft text of a delegated act during a four-week period. The European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of Regions shall be consulted on the draft text, based on the experience of NGOs and local and regional authorities with respect to the implementation of the Programme.








Amendment 99


Proposal for a regulation


Article 16 — paragraph 6








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment






6.   A delegated act adopted pursuant to 
Article
 14 shall enter into force if no objection has been expressed either by the European Parliament or by the Council within a period of two months of notification of that act to the European Parliament and the Council or if, before the expiry of that period, the European Parliament and the Council have both informed the Commission that they will not object. That period shall be extended by two months at the initiative of the European Parliament or of the Council.




6.   A delegated act adopted pursuant to 
Articles 13 or
 14 shall enter into force if no objection has been expressed either by the European Parliament or by the Council within a period of two months of notification of that act to the European Parliament and the Council or if, before the expiry of that period, the European Parliament and the Council have both informed the Commission that they will not object. That period shall be extended by two months at the initiative of the European Parliament or of the Council.






Amendment 100


Proposal for a regulation


Article 18 — paragraph 1








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment






1.   The recipients of Union funding shall acknowledge the origin and ensure the visibility of the Union funding (in particular when promoting the actions and their results) by providing coherent, effective and proportionate targeted information to multiple audiences, including the media and the public.




1.   The recipients of Union funding shall acknowledge the origin and ensure the visibility of the Union funding (in particular when promoting the actions and their results), by providing coherent, effective and proportionate targeted information
, and in a form which is also accessible for people with disabilities,
 to multiple audiences, including the media and the public 
and, where appropriate, beneficiaries of actions funded in this way and participants therein, thereby showing the Union added value and aiding the data gathering efforts of the Commission in order to enhance budgetary transparency








Amendment 101


Proposal for a regulation


Article 18 — paragraph 2








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment






2.   The Commission shall implement information and communication actions relating to the Programme, and its actions and results. 
Financial resources allocated to the Programme shall also contribute to the corporate communication of the political priorities of the Union, as far as they are related to the objectives referred to in Article 2.






2.   The Commission shall implement information and communication actions relating to the Programme, and its actions and results.






Amendment 102


Proposal for a regulation


Article 18 a (new)








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





 





Article 18 a




Programme Contact Points




In each Member State there shall be an independent programme contact point with qualified staff tasked, in particular, with providing the stakeholders and beneficiaries of the Programme with impartial guidance, practical information and assistance regarding all aspects of the Programme, including in relation to the application procedure.








Amendment 103


Proposal for a regulation


Article 19








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment







Article 19






deleted








Committee procedure




 







1.
   
The Commission shall be assisted by a committee. This committee shall be a committee within the meaning of Regulation (EU) No 182/2011.





 







2.
   
Where reference is made to this paragraph, Article 4 of Regulation (EU) No 182/2011 shall apply.





 







3.
   
The committee may meet in specific configurations to deal with the individual strands of the Programme.





 





Amendment 104


Proposal for a regulation


Annex -I (new)








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





 




Annex -I






 




The available Programme funds referred to in Article 6(1) shall be allocated as follows:






 










(a)






Within the amount referred to in point (a) of Article 6(2):








—




at least 15 % to activities implementing the specific objective under point (aa) of Article 3;












—




at least 40 % to activities implementing the specific objectives under point (-a) of Article 5; and












—




at least 45 % to activities implementing the specific objectives under points (a) and (b) of Article 3 and points (a) and (b) of Article 5;














 










(b)






Within the amount referred to in point (b) of Article 6(2):








—




15 % to remembrance activities;












—




65 % to democratic participation;












—




10 % to promotional activities; and












—




10 % to administration.















Amendment 105


Proposal for a regulation


Annex I








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment







Annex I






deleted








Activities of the Programme




 






The specific objectives of the Programme referred to in Article 2(2) will be pursued in particular through support to the following activities:




 












(a)






awareness raising, dissemination of information to improve the knowledge of the policies and rights in the areas covered by the Programme;








 












(b)






mutual learning through exchange of good practices among stakeholders to improve knowledge and mutual understanding and civic and democratic engagement;








 












(c)






analytical and monitoring activities

 (1)

to improve the understanding of the situation in the Member States and at EU level in the areas covered by the Programme as well as to improve the implementation of EU law and policies;








 












(d)






training relevant stakeholders to improve their knowledge of the policies and rights in the fields covered;








 












(e)






information and Communication Technology (ICT) tools development and maintenance;








 












(f)






strengthening citizen's awareness of European culture, history and remembrance as well as their sense of belonging to the Union;








 












(g)






bringing together Europeans of different nationalities and cultures by giving them the opportunity to participate in town-twinning activities;








 












(h)






encouraging and facilitating active participation in the construction of a more democratic Union as well as awareness of rights and values through support to civil society organisations;








 












(i)






financing the technical and organisational support to implement Regulation [(EU)No 211/2011], thereby underpinning the exercise by citizens of the right to launch and support European citizens’ initiatives;








 












(j)






developing the capacity of European networks to promote and further develop Union law, policy goals and strategies as well as supporting civil society organisations active in the areas covered by the Programme;








 












(k)






enhancing knowledge of the programme and dissemination and transferability of its results and fostering citizen outreach, including by setting up and supporting programme desks/national contact network.








 





Amendment 106


Proposal for a regulation


Annex II — paragraph 1 — introductory part








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





The Programme will be monitored on the basis of a set of indicators intended to measure the extent to which the general and specific objectives of the Programme have been achieved and with a view to minimising administrative burdens and costs. To that end, data will be collected as regards the following set of key indicators:


The Programme will be monitored on the basis of a set of 
result
 indicators intended to measure the extent to which the general and specific objectives of the Programme have been achieved and with a view to minimising administrative burdens and costs. 
Where possible, indicators are to be broken down by age, sex and any other collectable data, such as for instance ethnicity, disability and gender identity.
 To that end, data will be collected as regards the following set of key indicators:





Amendment 107


Proposal for a regulation


Annex II — paragraph 1 — table








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





Number of people reached by:


Number of people, 
disaggregated by sex and age
, reached by:










(i)


training activities;












(i)


training activities;














(ii)


mutual learning and exchange of good practices activities;












(ii)


mutual learning and exchange of good practices activities;














(iii)


awareness raising, information and dissemination activities.












(iii)


awareness raising, information and dissemination activities.









Amendment 108


Proposal for a regulation


Annex II — paragraph 1 — row 1 a (new)








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





 




The Commission shall also publish the following output indicators annually:







Amendment 109


Proposal for a regulation


Annex II — paragraph 1 — row 1 b (new)








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





 




Number of applications and activities funded per list in Article 9(1) and per strand







Amendment 110


Proposal for a regulation


Annex II — paragraph 1 — row 1 c (new)








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





 




The level of funding requested by applicants and granted by listing of Article 9(1) and per strand







Amendment 111


Proposal for a regulation


Annex II — table — row 6








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





Number of transnational networks and initiatives focusing on European 
memory and
 heritage as a result of programme intervention


Number of transnational networks and initiatives focusing on European 
remembrance,
 heritage 
and civil dialogue
 as a result of programme intervention.





Amendment 112


Proposal for a regulation


Annex II — table — row 6 a (new)








Text proposed by the Commission




Amendment





 




Geographical distribution of projects








(1)  The matter was referred back for interinstitutional negotiations to the committee responsible, pursuant to Rule 59(4), fourth subparagraph (A8-0468/2018).

(8)  Regulation (EU) No 1381/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 December 2013 establishing a Rights, Equality and Citizenship Programme for the period 2014 to 2020 (OJ L 354, 28.12.2013, p. 62)

(9)  Council Regulation (EU) No 390/2014 of 14 April 2014 establishing the ‘Europe for Citizens’ programme for the period 2014-2020 (OJ L 115, 17.4.2014, p. 3)

(8)  Regulation (EU) No 1381/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 December 2013 establishing a Rights, Equality and Citizenship Programme for the period 2014 to 2020 (OJ L 354, 28.12.2013, p. 62)

(9)  Council Regulation (EU) No 390/2014 of 14 April 2014 establishing the ‘Europe for Citizens’ programme for the period 2014-2020 (OJ L 115, 17.4.2014, p. 3)

(10)  COM(2011)0173.

(11)  OJ C 378, 24.12.2013, p. 1.

(10)  COM(2011)0173.

(11)  OJ C 378, 24.12.2013, p. 1.

(12)  OJ L 119, 4.5.2016, p. 1.

(13)  OJ L 119, 4.5.2016, p. 89.

(12)  OJ L 119, 4.5.2016, p. 1.

(13)  OJ L 119, 4.5.2016, p. 89.

(14)  Regulation (EU) No 211/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 February 2011 on the citizens’ initiative (OJ L 65, 11.3.2011, p. 1).

(14)  Regulation (EU) No 211/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 February 2011 on the citizens’ initiative (OJ L 65, 11.3.2011, p. 1).

(15)  Council Directive 2000/43/EC of 29 June 2000 implementing the principle of equal treatment between persons irrespective of racial or ethnic origin (OJ L 180, 19.7.2000, p. 22).

(16)  Council Directive 2004/113/EC of 13 December 2004 implementing the principle of equal treatment between men and women in the access to and supply of goods and services (OJ L 373, 21.12.2004, p. 37).

(17)  Directive 2006/54/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 5 July 2006 on the implementation of the principle of equal opportunities and equal treatment of men and women in matters of employment and occupation (OJ L 204, 26.7.2006, p. 23).

(18)  Directive 2010/41/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 7 July 2010 on the application of the principle of equal treatment between men and women engaged in an activity in a self-employed capacity and repealing Council Directive 86/613/EEC (OJ L 180, 15.7.2010, p. 1).

(15)  Council Directive 2000/43/EC of 29 June 2000 implementing the principle of equal treatment between persons irrespective of racial or ethnic origin (OJ L 180, 19.7.2000, p. 22).

(16)  Council Directive 2004/113/EC of 13 December 2004 implementing the principle of equal treatment between men and women in the access to and supply of goods and services (OJ L 373, 21.12.2004, p. 37).

(17)  Directive 2006/54/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 5 July 2006 on the implementation of the principle of equal opportunities and equal treatment of men and women in matters of employment and occupation (OJ L 204, 26.7.2006, p. 23).

(18)  Directive 2010/41/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 7 July 2010 on the application of the principle of equal treatment between men and women engaged in an activity in a self-employed capacity and repealing Council Directive 86/613/EEC (OJ L 180, 15.7.2010, p. 1).

(20)  Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 September 2013 concerning investigations conducted by the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) and repealing Regulation (EC) No 1073/1999 of the European Parliament and of the Council and Council Regulation (Euratom) No 1074/1999 (OJ L 248, 18.9.2013, p. 1.

(21)  Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 2988/95 of 18 December 1995 on the protection of the European Communities financial interests (OJ L 312, 23.12.1995, p. 1).

(22)  Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/96 of 11 November 1996 concerning on-the-spot checks and inspections carried out by the Commission in order to protect the European Communities’ financial interests against fraud and other irregularities (OJ L 292, 15.11.1996, p. 2).

(23)  Council Regulation (EU) 2017/1939 of 12 October 2017 implementing enhanced cooperation on the establishment of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (‘the EPPO’) (OJ L 283, 31.10.2017, p. 1).

(24)  Directive (EU) 2017/1371 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 5 July 2017 on the fight against fraud to the Union’s financial interests by means of criminal law (OJ L 198, 28.7.2017, p. 29).

(20)  Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 September 2013 concerning investigations conducted by the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) and repealing Regulation (EC) No 1073/1999 of the European Parliament and of the Council and Council Regulation (Euratom) No 1074/1999 (OJ L 248, 18.9.2013, p. 1.

(21)  Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 2988/95 of 18 December 1995 on the protection of the European Communities financial interests (OJ L 312, 23.12.1995, p. 1).

(22)  Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/96 of 11 November 1996 concerning on-the-spot checks and inspections carried out by the Commission in order to protect the European Communities’ financial interests against fraud and other irregularities (OJ L 292, 15.11.1996, p. 2).

(23)  Council Regulation (EU) 2017/1939 of 12 October 2017 implementing enhanced cooperation on the establishment of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (‘the EPPO’) (OJ L 283, 31.10.2017, p. 1).

(24)  Directive (EU) 2017/1371 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 5 July 2017 on the fight against fraud to the Union’s financial interests by means of criminal law (OJ L 198, 28.7.2017, p. 29).

(25)  Council Decision 2013/755/EU of 25 November 2013 on the association of the overseas countries and territories with the European Union (Overseas Association Decision) (OJ L 344, 19.12.2013, p. 1).

(25)  Council Decision 2013/755/EU of 25 November 2013 on the association of the overseas countries and territories with the European Union (Overseas Association Decision) (OJ L 344, 19.12.2013, p. 1).

(26)  
Regulation (EU) No 182/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 February 2011 laying down the rules and general principles concerning mechanisms for control by the Member States of the Commission's exercise of implementing powers (OJ L 55, 28.2.2011, p. 13)



(1)  
These activities include for instance the collection of data and statistics; the development of common methodologies and, where appropriate, indicators or benchmarks; studies, researches, analyses and surveys; evaluations; impact assessment; the elaboration and publication of guides, reports and educational material.