Article 1 
Establishment of the programme 1. This Decision establishes the eLearning Programme, a multiannual programme for the improvement of the quality and accessibility of European education and training systems through the effective use of information and communication technologies (ICT), hereinafter referred to as "the programme". 2. The programme shall be implemented over a period starting on 1 January 2004 and ending on 31 December 2006. Article 2 Objectives of the programme 1. The overall objective of the programme is to support and develop further the effective use of ICT in European education and training systems, as a contribution to a quality education and an essential element of their adaptation to the needs of the knowledge society in a lifelong learning context. 2. The specific objectives of the programme are: (a) to identify the actors concerned and inform them of ways and means of using e-learning for promoting digital literacy and thereby contribute to strengthening social cohesion and personal development and fostering intercultural dialogue; (b) to exploit the potential of e-learning for enhancing the European dimension in education; (c) to provide mechanisms for supporting development of European quality products and services, and for exchange and transfer of good practice; (d) to exploit the potential of e-learning in the context of innovation in teaching methods with a view to improving the quality of the learning process and fostering the autonomy of learners. Article 3 Areas of intervention of the programme 1. The objectives of the programme shall be pursued in the following areas of intervention, in accordance with the action lines described in the Annex: (a) promoting digital literacy: actions in this area will address the contribution of ICT in school and more broadly in a lifelong learning context, in particular for those who, owing to their geographical location, social situation or special needs, do not have easy access to those technologies. The objective is to identify good examples and build synergies between the many national and European activities, which address these target groups; (b) European virtual campuses: actions in this area will pursue a better integration of the virtual dimension in higher education. The objective is to encourage the development of new organisational models for providing higher education in Europe (virtual campuses) and for European exchange and sharing schemes (virtual mobility), building on existing European cooperation frameworks (Erasmus programme, Bologna process), and providing an "e-learning dimension" to their operational tools (European credit transfer system (ECTS), European Masters, quality assurance, mobility); (c) e-twinning of schools in Europe and promotion of teachers' training: actions in this area will support and further develop networking in schools, to make it possible for all schools in Europe to build pedagogical partnerships with schools elsewhere in Europe, to promote innovative cooperation methods and transfer quality educational approaches and reinforce language learning and intercultural dialogue; actions in this area will also address the updating of teachers' and trainers' professional skills in the pedagogical and collaborative use of ICT through an exchange and dissemination of good practices and the setting up of transnational and multidisciplinary cooperation projects; (d) transversal actions: actions in this area will address the promotion of e-learning in Europe, building on the monitoring of the eLearning Action Plan. The objectives are the dissemination, promotion and transfer of good and innovative practices and results from the projects and programmes and to reinforce cooperation between the various actors involved, in particular by fostering public-private partnerships. 2. These actions shall be implemented in accordance with the procedures set out in the Annex, and through the following approaches, which may be combined where appropriate: (a) support for pilot projects, with potential for strategic impact in education and training practice, and clear prospects for long-term sustainability; (b) support for the development of methods, tools and practice and for the analysis of trends in the design and use of "e-learning" models for education and training; (c) support for innovative actions by European networks and partnerships designed to foster innovation and quality in the design and use of products and services, based on the relevant use of ICT for education and training; (d) support for European networks and partnerships that promote and strengthen the pedagogical and educational use of Internet and ICT and for the exchange of good practice. These activities are designed to ensure that teachers and pupils are not only technically proficient at using Internet and ICT but are also proficient in a pedagogical, critical and responsible sense; (e) support for European cooperation, transfer of e-learning products, and dissemination and exchange of good practice; (f) technical and administrative assistance. Article 4 Implementation of the programme and cooperation with the Member States 1. The Commission shall: (a) ensure the implementation of the Community actions covered by the programme in conformity with the Annex; (b) ensure synergies with other Community programmes and actions in the field of education, research, social policy and regional development; (c) foster and facilitate cooperation with international organisations developing activities in the field of e-learning. 2. The Member States shall identify appropriate correspondents who shall cooperate closely with the Commission as regards relevant information about e-learning use and practice. Article 5 Implementing measures 1. The following measures necessary for the implementation of this Decision shall be adopted in accordance with the management procedure referred to in Article 6(2): (a) the annual plan of work, including priorities, and the selection criteria and procedures and results; (b) the annual budget and the breakdown of funds among the different actions of the programme, in accordance with Articles 9 and 10; (c) the measures for monitoring and evaluating the programme and for the dissemination and transfer of results. 2. All other measures necessary for the implementation of this Decision shall be adopted in accordance with the advisory procedure referred to in Article 6(3). Article 6 Committee 1. The Commission shall be assisted by a committee. 2. Where reference is made to this paragraph, Articles 4 and 7 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, having regard to the provisions of Article 8 thereof. The period laid down in Article 4(3) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be set at two months. 3. Where reference is made to this paragraph, Articles 3 and 7 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, having regard to the provisions of Article 8 thereof. 4. The Committee shall adopt its rules of procedure. Article 7 Consistency and complementarity 1. The Commission shall, in cooperation with the Member States, ensure overall consistency and complementarity of the programme with other relevant Community policies, instruments and actions, in particular with the Socrates, Leonardo da Vinci education and training programmes and the Youth programme. 2. The Commission shall ensure efficient linkage and, where appropriate, coordinated actions, between this programme and the programmes and actions in the area of new technologies for education and training, in particular with the relevant actions for research, technological development and demonstration activities under the sixth framework programme. Article 8 Funding 1. The financial framework for the implementation of the programme for the period specified in Article 1 is hereby set at EUR 44 million. 2. Annual appropriations shall be authorised by the budgetary authority within the limit of the financial perspective. Article 9 Budget distribution Budgetary distribution between the actions shall be as follows: (a) e-learning for promoting digital literacy: around 10 % of total budget; (b) European virtual campuses: around 30 % of total budget; (c) e-twinning of schools in Europe and promotion of teacher training: around 45 % of total budget; (d) transversal actions and monitoring of eLearning action plan: maximum 7,5 % of total budget; (e) technical and administrative assistance: maximum 7,5 % of total budget. Article 10 Participation of candidate countries for accession to the European Union and EEA-EFTA States The conditions and detailed rules for the participation of candidate countries for accession to the European Union and EEA-EFTA States in the programme shall be established in accordance with the relevant provisions of the instruments governing the relations between the Community and these countries. Article 11 Cooperation with third countries On the initiative of the Commission, experts from third countries other than those referred to in Article 10 may be invited to participate in conferences and meetings with the exception of meetings of the Committee referred to in Article 6. The funds allocated for the reimbursement of travel and subsistence expenses, under the applicable Commission regulations, shall not exceed 0,5 % of the programme's total budget. Article 12 Monitoring and evaluation 1. The Commission shall regularly monitor the programme in cooperation with the Member States. This monitoring shall include the report referred to in paragraph 2 and specific activities. 2. The Commission shall ensure external evaluation of the programme at the moment of its completion. This evaluation is intended to assess the relevance, effectiveness and impact of the different actions, and it shall also consider the overall impact of the programme. Special attention shall be paid to social cohesion issues and to equal opportunities issues. This evaluation shall also examine the complementarity between action under the programme and that pursued under other relevant Community policies, instruments and actions. The Commission shall submit to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions an ex post evaluation report by the end of 2007. Article 13 Entry into force This Decision shall enter into force on the 20th day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union. Done at Brussels, 5 December 2003. For the European Parliament The President P. Cox For the Council P. Lunardi (1) OJ C 133, 6.6.2003, p. 33. (2) OJ C 244, 10.10.2003, p. 42. (3) Opinion of the European Parliament of 8 April 2003 (not yet published in the Official Journal), Council Common Position of 16 June 2003 (OJ C 233 E, 30.9.2003, p. 24) and Position of the European Parliament of 21 October 2003 (not yet published in the Official Journal). (4) Decision No 253/2000/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 January 2000 establishing the second phase of the Community action programme in the field of education "Socrates" (OJ L 28, 3.2.2000, p. 1). Decision as amended by Decision No 451/2003/EC (OJ L 69, 13.3.2003, p. 6). (5) Council Decision 1999/382/EC of 26 April 1999 establishing the second phase of the Community vocational training action programme "Leonardo da Vinci" (OJ L 146, 11.6.1999, p. 33). (6) OJ C 34 E, 7.2.2002, p. 153. (7) OJ C 204, 20.7.2001, p. 3. (8) Decision No 1513/2002/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 June 2002 concerning the sixth framework programme of the European Community for research, technological development and demonstration activities, contribution to the creation of the European Research Area and to innovation (2002 to 2006), (OJ L 232, 29.8.2002, p. 1). (9) OJ C 172, 18.6.1999, p. 1. Agreement as amended by Decision 2003/429/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (OJ L 147, 14.6.2003, p. 25). (10) OJ L 184, 17.7.1999, p. 23.
Article 2 
Objectives of the programme 1. The overall objective of the programme is to support and develop further the effective use of ICT in European education and training systems, as a contribution to a quality education and an essential element of their adaptation to the needs of the knowledge society in a lifelong learning context. 2. The specific objectives of the programme are: (a) to identify the actors concerned and inform them of ways and means of using e-learning for promoting digital literacy and thereby contribute to strengthening social cohesion and personal development and fostering intercultural dialogue; (b) to exploit the potential of e-learning for enhancing the European dimension in education; (c) to provide mechanisms for supporting development of European quality products and services, and for exchange and transfer of good practice; (d) to exploit the potential of e-learning in the context of innovation in teaching methods with a view to improving the quality of the learning process and fostering the autonomy of learners. Article 3 Areas of intervention of the programme 1. The objectives of the programme shall be pursued in the following areas of intervention, in accordance with the action lines described in the Annex: (a) promoting digital literacy: actions in this area will address the contribution of ICT in school and more broadly in a lifelong learning context, in particular for those who, owing to their geographical location, social situation or special needs, do not have easy access to those technologies. The objective is to identify good examples and build synergies between the many national and European activities, which address these target groups; (b) European virtual campuses: actions in this area will pursue a better integration of the virtual dimension in higher education. The objective is to encourage the development of new organisational models for providing higher education in Europe (virtual campuses) and for European exchange and sharing schemes (virtual mobility), building on existing European cooperation frameworks (Erasmus programme, Bologna process), and providing an "e-learning dimension" to their operational tools (European credit transfer system (ECTS), European Masters, quality assurance, mobility); (c) e-twinning of schools in Europe and promotion of teachers' training: actions in this area will support and further develop networking in schools, to make it possible for all schools in Europe to build pedagogical partnerships with schools elsewhere in Europe, to promote innovative cooperation methods and transfer quality educational approaches and reinforce language learning and intercultural dialogue; actions in this area will also address the updating of teachers' and trainers' professional skills in the pedagogical and collaborative use of ICT through an exchange and dissemination of good practices and the setting up of transnational and multidisciplinary cooperation projects; (d) transversal actions: actions in this area will address the promotion of e-learning in Europe, building on the monitoring of the eLearning Action Plan. The objectives are the dissemination, promotion and transfer of good and innovative practices and results from the projects and programmes and to reinforce cooperation between the various actors involved, in particular by fostering public-private partnerships. 2. These actions shall be implemented in accordance with the procedures set out in the Annex, and through the following approaches, which may be combined where appropriate: (a) support for pilot projects, with potential for strategic impact in education and training practice, and clear prospects for long-term sustainability; (b) support for the development of methods, tools and practice and for the analysis of trends in the design and use of "e-learning" models for education and training; (c) support for innovative actions by European networks and partnerships designed to foster innovation and quality in the design and use of products and services, based on the relevant use of ICT for education and training; (d) support for European networks and partnerships that promote and strengthen the pedagogical and educational use of Internet and ICT and for the exchange of good practice. These activities are designed to ensure that teachers and pupils are not only technically proficient at using Internet and ICT but are also proficient in a pedagogical, critical and responsible sense; (e) support for European cooperation, transfer of e-learning products, and dissemination and exchange of good practice; (f) technical and administrative assistance. Article 4 Implementation of the programme and cooperation with the Member States 1. The Commission shall: (a) ensure the implementation of the Community actions covered by the programme in conformity with the Annex; (b) ensure synergies with other Community programmes and actions in the field of education, research, social policy and regional development; (c) foster and facilitate cooperation with international organisations developing activities in the field of e-learning. 2. The Member States shall identify appropriate correspondents who shall cooperate closely with the Commission as regards relevant information about e-learning use and practice. Article 5 Implementing measures 1. The following measures necessary for the implementation of this Decision shall be adopted in accordance with the management procedure referred to in Article 6(2): (a) the annual plan of work, including priorities, and the selection criteria and procedures and results; (b) the annual budget and the breakdown of funds among the different actions of the programme, in accordance with Articles 9 and 10; (c) the measures for monitoring and evaluating the programme and for the dissemination and transfer of results. 2. All other measures necessary for the implementation of this Decision shall be adopted in accordance with the advisory procedure referred to in Article 6(3). Article 6 Committee 1. The Commission shall be assisted by a committee. 2. Where reference is made to this paragraph, Articles 4 and 7 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, having regard to the provisions of Article 8 thereof. The period laid down in Article 4(3) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be set at two months. 3. Where reference is made to this paragraph, Articles 3 and 7 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, having regard to the provisions of Article 8 thereof. 4. The Committee shall adopt its rules of procedure. Article 7 Consistency and complementarity 1. The Commission shall, in cooperation with the Member States, ensure overall consistency and complementarity of the programme with other relevant Community policies, instruments and actions, in particular with the Socrates, Leonardo da Vinci education and training programmes and the Youth programme. 2. The Commission shall ensure efficient linkage and, where appropriate, coordinated actions, between this programme and the programmes and actions in the area of new technologies for education and training, in particular with the relevant actions for research, technological development and demonstration activities under the sixth framework programme. Article 8 Funding 1. The financial framework for the implementation of the programme for the period specified in Article 1 is hereby set at EUR 44 million. 2. Annual appropriations shall be authorised by the budgetary authority within the limit of the financial perspective. Article 9 Budget distribution Budgetary distribution between the actions shall be as follows: (a) e-learning for promoting digital literacy: around 10 % of total budget; (b) European virtual campuses: around 30 % of total budget; (c) e-twinning of schools in Europe and promotion of teacher training: around 45 % of total budget; (d) transversal actions and monitoring of eLearning action plan: maximum 7,5 % of total budget; (e) technical and administrative assistance: maximum 7,5 % of total budget. Article 10 Participation of candidate countries for accession to the European Union and EEA-EFTA States The conditions and detailed rules for the participation of candidate countries for accession to the European Union and EEA-EFTA States in the programme shall be established in accordance with the relevant provisions of the instruments governing the relations between the Community and these countries. Article 11 Cooperation with third countries On the initiative of the Commission, experts from third countries other than those referred to in Article 10 may be invited to participate in conferences and meetings with the exception of meetings of the Committee referred to in Article 6. The funds allocated for the reimbursement of travel and subsistence expenses, under the applicable Commission regulations, shall not exceed 0,5 % of the programme's total budget. Article 12 Monitoring and evaluation 1. The Commission shall regularly monitor the programme in cooperation with the Member States. This monitoring shall include the report referred to in paragraph 2 and specific activities. 2. The Commission shall ensure external evaluation of the programme at the moment of its completion. This evaluation is intended to assess the relevance, effectiveness and impact of the different actions, and it shall also consider the overall impact of the programme. Special attention shall be paid to social cohesion issues and to equal opportunities issues. This evaluation shall also examine the complementarity between action under the programme and that pursued under other relevant Community policies, instruments and actions. The Commission shall submit to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions an ex post evaluation report by the end of 2007. Article 13 Entry into force This Decision shall enter into force on the 20th day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union. Done at Brussels, 5 December 2003. For the European Parliament The President P. Cox For the Council P. Lunardi (1) OJ C 133, 6.6.2003, p. 33. (2) OJ C 244, 10.10.2003, p. 42. (3) Opinion of the European Parliament of 8 April 2003 (not yet published in the Official Journal), Council Common Position of 16 June 2003 (OJ C 233 E, 30.9.2003, p. 24) and Position of the European Parliament of 21 October 2003 (not yet published in the Official Journal). (4) Decision No 253/2000/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 January 2000 establishing the second phase of the Community action programme in the field of education "Socrates" (OJ L 28, 3.2.2000, p. 1). Decision as amended by Decision No 451/2003/EC (OJ L 69, 13.3.2003, p. 6). (5) Council Decision 1999/382/EC of 26 April 1999 establishing the second phase of the Community vocational training action programme "Leonardo da Vinci" (OJ L 146, 11.6.1999, p. 33). (6) OJ C 34 E, 7.2.2002, p. 153. (7) OJ C 204, 20.7.2001, p. 3. (8) Decision No 1513/2002/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 June 2002 concerning the sixth framework programme of the European Community for research, technological development and demonstration activities, contribution to the creation of the European Research Area and to innovation (2002 to 2006), (OJ L 232, 29.8.2002, p. 1). (9) OJ C 172, 18.6.1999, p. 1. Agreement as amended by Decision 2003/429/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (OJ L 147, 14.6.2003, p. 25). (10) OJ L 184, 17.7.1999, p. 23.
Article 3 
Areas of intervention of the programme 1. The objectives of the programme shall be pursued in the following areas of intervention, in accordance with the action lines described in the Annex: (a) promoting digital literacy: actions in this area will address the contribution of ICT in school and more broadly in a lifelong learning context, in particular for those who, owing to their geographical location, social situation or special needs, do not have easy access to those technologies. The objective is to identify good examples and build synergies between the many national and European activities, which address these target groups; (b) European virtual campuses: actions in this area will pursue a better integration of the virtual dimension in higher education. The objective is to encourage the development of new organisational models for providing higher education in Europe (virtual campuses) and for European exchange and sharing schemes (virtual mobility), building on existing European cooperation frameworks (Erasmus programme, Bologna process), and providing an "e-learning dimension" to their operational tools (European credit transfer system (ECTS), European Masters, quality assurance, mobility); (c) e-twinning of schools in Europe and promotion of teachers' training: actions in this area will support and further develop networking in schools, to make it possible for all schools in Europe to build pedagogical partnerships with schools elsewhere in Europe, to promote innovative cooperation methods and transfer quality educational approaches and reinforce language learning and intercultural dialogue; actions in this area will also address the updating of teachers' and trainers' professional skills in the pedagogical and collaborative use of ICT through an exchange and dissemination of good practices and the setting up of transnational and multidisciplinary cooperation projects; (d) transversal actions: actions in this area will address the promotion of e-learning in Europe, building on the monitoring of the eLearning Action Plan. The objectives are the dissemination, promotion and transfer of good and innovative practices and results from the projects and programmes and to reinforce cooperation between the various actors involved, in particular by fostering public-private partnerships. 2. These actions shall be implemented in accordance with the procedures set out in the Annex, and through the following approaches, which may be combined where appropriate: (a) support for pilot projects, with potential for strategic impact in education and training practice, and clear prospects for long-term sustainability; (b) support for the development of methods, tools and practice and for the analysis of trends in the design and use of "e-learning" models for education and training; (c) support for innovative actions by European networks and partnerships designed to foster innovation and quality in the design and use of products and services, based on the relevant use of ICT for education and training; (d) support for European networks and partnerships that promote and strengthen the pedagogical and educational use of Internet and ICT and for the exchange of good practice. These activities are designed to ensure that teachers and pupils are not only technically proficient at using Internet and ICT but are also proficient in a pedagogical, critical and responsible sense; (e) support for European cooperation, transfer of e-learning products, and dissemination and exchange of good practice; (f) technical and administrative assistance. Article 4 Implementation of the programme and cooperation with the Member States 1. The Commission shall: (a) ensure the implementation of the Community actions covered by the programme in conformity with the Annex; (b) ensure synergies with other Community programmes and actions in the field of education, research, social policy and regional development; (c) foster and facilitate cooperation with international organisations developing activities in the field of e-learning. 2. The Member States shall identify appropriate correspondents who shall cooperate closely with the Commission as regards relevant information about e-learning use and practice. Article 5 Implementing measures 1. The following measures necessary for the implementation of this Decision shall be adopted in accordance with the management procedure referred to in Article 6(2): (a) the annual plan of work, including priorities, and the selection criteria and procedures and results; (b) the annual budget and the breakdown of funds among the different actions of the programme, in accordance with Articles 9 and 10; (c) the measures for monitoring and evaluating the programme and for the dissemination and transfer of results. 2. All other measures necessary for the implementation of this Decision shall be adopted in accordance with the advisory procedure referred to in Article 6(3). Article 6 Committee 1. The Commission shall be assisted by a committee. 2. Where reference is made to this paragraph, Articles 4 and 7 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, having regard to the provisions of Article 8 thereof. The period laid down in Article 4(3) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be set at two months. 3. Where reference is made to this paragraph, Articles 3 and 7 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, having regard to the provisions of Article 8 thereof. 4. The Committee shall adopt its rules of procedure. Article 7 Consistency and complementarity 1. The Commission shall, in cooperation with the Member States, ensure overall consistency and complementarity of the programme with other relevant Community policies, instruments and actions, in particular with the Socrates, Leonardo da Vinci education and training programmes and the Youth programme. 2. The Commission shall ensure efficient linkage and, where appropriate, coordinated actions, between this programme and the programmes and actions in the area of new technologies for education and training, in particular with the relevant actions for research, technological development and demonstration activities under the sixth framework programme. Article 8 Funding 1. The financial framework for the implementation of the programme for the period specified in Article 1 is hereby set at EUR 44 million. 2. Annual appropriations shall be authorised by the budgetary authority within the limit of the financial perspective. Article 9 Budget distribution Budgetary distribution between the actions shall be as follows: (a) e-learning for promoting digital literacy: around 10 % of total budget; (b) European virtual campuses: around 30 % of total budget; (c) e-twinning of schools in Europe and promotion of teacher training: around 45 % of total budget; (d) transversal actions and monitoring of eLearning action plan: maximum 7,5 % of total budget; (e) technical and administrative assistance: maximum 7,5 % of total budget. Article 10 Participation of candidate countries for accession to the European Union and EEA-EFTA States The conditions and detailed rules for the participation of candidate countries for accession to the European Union and EEA-EFTA States in the programme shall be established in accordance with the relevant provisions of the instruments governing the relations between the Community and these countries. Article 11 Cooperation with third countries On the initiative of the Commission, experts from third countries other than those referred to in Article 10 may be invited to participate in conferences and meetings with the exception of meetings of the Committee referred to in Article 6. The funds allocated for the reimbursement of travel and subsistence expenses, under the applicable Commission regulations, shall not exceed 0,5 % of the programme's total budget. Article 12 Monitoring and evaluation 1. The Commission shall regularly monitor the programme in cooperation with the Member States. This monitoring shall include the report referred to in paragraph 2 and specific activities. 2. The Commission shall ensure external evaluation of the programme at the moment of its completion. This evaluation is intended to assess the relevance, effectiveness and impact of the different actions, and it shall also consider the overall impact of the programme. Special attention shall be paid to social cohesion issues and to equal opportunities issues. This evaluation shall also examine the complementarity between action under the programme and that pursued under other relevant Community policies, instruments and actions. The Commission shall submit to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions an ex post evaluation report by the end of 2007. Article 13 Entry into force This Decision shall enter into force on the 20th day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union. Done at Brussels, 5 December 2003. For the European Parliament The President P. Cox For the Council P. Lunardi (1) OJ C 133, 6.6.2003, p. 33. (2) OJ C 244, 10.10.2003, p. 42. (3) Opinion of the European Parliament of 8 April 2003 (not yet published in the Official Journal), Council Common Position of 16 June 2003 (OJ C 233 E, 30.9.2003, p. 24) and Position of the European Parliament of 21 October 2003 (not yet published in the Official Journal). (4) Decision No 253/2000/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 January 2000 establishing the second phase of the Community action programme in the field of education "Socrates" (OJ L 28, 3.2.2000, p. 1). Decision as amended by Decision No 451/2003/EC (OJ L 69, 13.3.2003, p. 6). (5) Council Decision 1999/382/EC of 26 April 1999 establishing the second phase of the Community vocational training action programme "Leonardo da Vinci" (OJ L 146, 11.6.1999, p. 33). (6) OJ C 34 E, 7.2.2002, p. 153. (7) OJ C 204, 20.7.2001, p. 3. (8) Decision No 1513/2002/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 June 2002 concerning the sixth framework programme of the European Community for research, technological development and demonstration activities, contribution to the creation of the European Research Area and to innovation (2002 to 2006), (OJ L 232, 29.8.2002, p. 1). (9) OJ C 172, 18.6.1999, p. 1. Agreement as amended by Decision 2003/429/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (OJ L 147, 14.6.2003, p. 25). (10) OJ L 184, 17.7.1999, p. 23.
Article 4 
Implementation of the programme and cooperation with the Member States 1. The Commission shall: (a) ensure the implementation of the Community actions covered by the programme in conformity with the Annex; (b) ensure synergies with other Community programmes and actions in the field of education, research, social policy and regional development; (c) foster and facilitate cooperation with international organisations developing activities in the field of e-learning. 2. The Member States shall identify appropriate correspondents who shall cooperate closely with the Commission as regards relevant information about e-learning use and practice. Article 5 Implementing measures 1. The following measures necessary for the implementation of this Decision shall be adopted in accordance with the management procedure referred to in Article 6(2): (a) the annual plan of work, including priorities, and the selection criteria and procedures and results; (b) the annual budget and the breakdown of funds among the different actions of the programme, in accordance with Articles 9 and 10; (c) the measures for monitoring and evaluating the programme and for the dissemination and transfer of results. 2. All other measures necessary for the implementation of this Decision shall be adopted in accordance with the advisory procedure referred to in Article 6(3). Article 6 Committee 1. The Commission shall be assisted by a committee. 2. Where reference is made to this paragraph, Articles 4 and 7 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, having regard to the provisions of Article 8 thereof. The period laid down in Article 4(3) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be set at two months. 3. Where reference is made to this paragraph, Articles 3 and 7 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, having regard to the provisions of Article 8 thereof. 4. The Committee shall adopt its rules of procedure. Article 7 Consistency and complementarity 1. The Commission shall, in cooperation with the Member States, ensure overall consistency and complementarity of the programme with other relevant Community policies, instruments and actions, in particular with the Socrates, Leonardo da Vinci education and training programmes and the Youth programme. 2. The Commission shall ensure efficient linkage and, where appropriate, coordinated actions, between this programme and the programmes and actions in the area of new technologies for education and training, in particular with the relevant actions for research, technological development and demonstration activities under the sixth framework programme. Article 8 Funding 1. The financial framework for the implementation of the programme for the period specified in Article 1 is hereby set at EUR 44 million. 2. Annual appropriations shall be authorised by the budgetary authority within the limit of the financial perspective. Article 9 Budget distribution Budgetary distribution between the actions shall be as follows: (a) e-learning for promoting digital literacy: around 10 % of total budget; (b) European virtual campuses: around 30 % of total budget; (c) e-twinning of schools in Europe and promotion of teacher training: around 45 % of total budget; (d) transversal actions and monitoring of eLearning action plan: maximum 7,5 % of total budget; (e) technical and administrative assistance: maximum 7,5 % of total budget. Article 10 Participation of candidate countries for accession to the European Union and EEA-EFTA States The conditions and detailed rules for the participation of candidate countries for accession to the European Union and EEA-EFTA States in the programme shall be established in accordance with the relevant provisions of the instruments governing the relations between the Community and these countries. Article 11 Cooperation with third countries On the initiative of the Commission, experts from third countries other than those referred to in Article 10 may be invited to participate in conferences and meetings with the exception of meetings of the Committee referred to in Article 6. The funds allocated for the reimbursement of travel and subsistence expenses, under the applicable Commission regulations, shall not exceed 0,5 % of the programme's total budget. Article 12 Monitoring and evaluation 1. The Commission shall regularly monitor the programme in cooperation with the Member States. This monitoring shall include the report referred to in paragraph 2 and specific activities. 2. The Commission shall ensure external evaluation of the programme at the moment of its completion. This evaluation is intended to assess the relevance, effectiveness and impact of the different actions, and it shall also consider the overall impact of the programme. Special attention shall be paid to social cohesion issues and to equal opportunities issues. This evaluation shall also examine the complementarity between action under the programme and that pursued under other relevant Community policies, instruments and actions. The Commission shall submit to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions an ex post evaluation report by the end of 2007. Article 13 Entry into force This Decision shall enter into force on the 20th day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union. Done at Brussels, 5 December 2003. For the European Parliament The President P. Cox For the Council P. Lunardi (1) OJ C 133, 6.6.2003, p. 33. (2) OJ C 244, 10.10.2003, p. 42. (3) Opinion of the European Parliament of 8 April 2003 (not yet published in the Official Journal), Council Common Position of 16 June 2003 (OJ C 233 E, 30.9.2003, p. 24) and Position of the European Parliament of 21 October 2003 (not yet published in the Official Journal). (4) Decision No 253/2000/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 January 2000 establishing the second phase of the Community action programme in the field of education "Socrates" (OJ L 28, 3.2.2000, p. 1). Decision as amended by Decision No 451/2003/EC (OJ L 69, 13.3.2003, p. 6). (5) Council Decision 1999/382/EC of 26 April 1999 establishing the second phase of the Community vocational training action programme "Leonardo da Vinci" (OJ L 146, 11.6.1999, p. 33). (6) OJ C 34 E, 7.2.2002, p. 153. (7) OJ C 204, 20.7.2001, p. 3. (8) Decision No 1513/2002/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 June 2002 concerning the sixth framework programme of the European Community for research, technological development and demonstration activities, contribution to the creation of the European Research Area and to innovation (2002 to 2006), (OJ L 232, 29.8.2002, p. 1). (9) OJ C 172, 18.6.1999, p. 1. Agreement as amended by Decision 2003/429/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (OJ L 147, 14.6.2003, p. 25). (10) OJ L 184, 17.7.1999, p. 23.
Article 5 
Implementing measures 1. The following measures necessary for the implementation of this Decision shall be adopted in accordance with the management procedure referred to in Article 6(2): (a) the annual plan of work, including priorities, and the selection criteria and procedures and results; (b) the annual budget and the breakdown of funds among the different actions of the programme, in accordance with Articles 9 and 10; (c) the measures for monitoring and evaluating the programme and for the dissemination and transfer of results. 2. All other measures necessary for the implementation of this Decision shall be adopted in accordance with the advisory procedure referred to in Article 6(3). Article 6 Committee 1. The Commission shall be assisted by a committee. 2. Where reference is made to this paragraph, Articles 4 and 7 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, having regard to the provisions of Article 8 thereof. The period laid down in Article 4(3) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be set at two months. 3. Where reference is made to this paragraph, Articles 3 and 7 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, having regard to the provisions of Article 8 thereof. 4. The Committee shall adopt its rules of procedure. Article 7 Consistency and complementarity 1. The Commission shall, in cooperation with the Member States, ensure overall consistency and complementarity of the programme with other relevant Community policies, instruments and actions, in particular with the Socrates, Leonardo da Vinci education and training programmes and the Youth programme. 2. The Commission shall ensure efficient linkage and, where appropriate, coordinated actions, between this programme and the programmes and actions in the area of new technologies for education and training, in particular with the relevant actions for research, technological development and demonstration activities under the sixth framework programme. Article 8 Funding 1. The financial framework for the implementation of the programme for the period specified in Article 1 is hereby set at EUR 44 million. 2. Annual appropriations shall be authorised by the budgetary authority within the limit of the financial perspective. Article 9 Budget distribution Budgetary distribution between the actions shall be as follows: (a) e-learning for promoting digital literacy: around 10 % of total budget; (b) European virtual campuses: around 30 % of total budget; (c) e-twinning of schools in Europe and promotion of teacher training: around 45 % of total budget; (d) transversal actions and monitoring of eLearning action plan: maximum 7,5 % of total budget; (e) technical and administrative assistance: maximum 7,5 % of total budget. Article 10 Participation of candidate countries for accession to the European Union and EEA-EFTA States The conditions and detailed rules for the participation of candidate countries for accession to the European Union and EEA-EFTA States in the programme shall be established in accordance with the relevant provisions of the instruments governing the relations between the Community and these countries. Article 11 Cooperation with third countries On the initiative of the Commission, experts from third countries other than those referred to in Article 10 may be invited to participate in conferences and meetings with the exception of meetings of the Committee referred to in Article 6. The funds allocated for the reimbursement of travel and subsistence expenses, under the applicable Commission regulations, shall not exceed 0,5 % of the programme's total budget. Article 12 Monitoring and evaluation 1. The Commission shall regularly monitor the programme in cooperation with the Member States. This monitoring shall include the report referred to in paragraph 2 and specific activities. 2. The Commission shall ensure external evaluation of the programme at the moment of its completion. This evaluation is intended to assess the relevance, effectiveness and impact of the different actions, and it shall also consider the overall impact of the programme. Special attention shall be paid to social cohesion issues and to equal opportunities issues. This evaluation shall also examine the complementarity between action under the programme and that pursued under other relevant Community policies, instruments and actions. The Commission shall submit to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions an ex post evaluation report by the end of 2007. Article 13 Entry into force This Decision shall enter into force on the 20th day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union. Done at Brussels, 5 December 2003. For the European Parliament The President P. Cox For the Council P. Lunardi (1) OJ C 133, 6.6.2003, p. 33. (2) OJ C 244, 10.10.2003, p. 42. (3) Opinion of the European Parliament of 8 April 2003 (not yet published in the Official Journal), Council Common Position of 16 June 2003 (OJ C 233 E, 30.9.2003, p. 24) and Position of the European Parliament of 21 October 2003 (not yet published in the Official Journal). (4) Decision No 253/2000/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 January 2000 establishing the second phase of the Community action programme in the field of education "Socrates" (OJ L 28, 3.2.2000, p. 1). Decision as amended by Decision No 451/2003/EC (OJ L 69, 13.3.2003, p. 6). (5) Council Decision 1999/382/EC of 26 April 1999 establishing the second phase of the Community vocational training action programme "Leonardo da Vinci" (OJ L 146, 11.6.1999, p. 33). (6) OJ C 34 E, 7.2.2002, p. 153. (7) OJ C 204, 20.7.2001, p. 3. (8) Decision No 1513/2002/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 June 2002 concerning the sixth framework programme of the European Community for research, technological development and demonstration activities, contribution to the creation of the European Research Area and to innovation (2002 to 2006), (OJ L 232, 29.8.2002, p. 1). (9) OJ C 172, 18.6.1999, p. 1. Agreement as amended by Decision 2003/429/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (OJ L 147, 14.6.2003, p. 25). (10) OJ L 184, 17.7.1999, p. 23.
Article 6 
Committee 1. The Commission shall be assisted by a committee. 2. Where reference is made to this paragraph, Articles 4 and 7 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, having regard to the provisions of Article 8 thereof. The period laid down in Article 4(3) of Decision 1999/468/EC shall be set at two months. 3. Where reference is made to this paragraph, Articles 3 and 7 of Decision 1999/468/EC shall apply, having regard to the provisions of Article 8 thereof. 4. The Committee shall adopt its rules of procedure. Article 7 Consistency and complementarity 1. The Commission shall, in cooperation with the Member States, ensure overall consistency and complementarity of the programme with other relevant Community policies, instruments and actions, in particular with the Socrates, Leonardo da Vinci education and training programmes and the Youth programme. 2. The Commission shall ensure efficient linkage and, where appropriate, coordinated actions, between this programme and the programmes and actions in the area of new technologies for education and training, in particular with the relevant actions for research, technological development and demonstration activities under the sixth framework programme. Article 8 Funding 1. The financial framework for the implementation of the programme for the period specified in Article 1 is hereby set at EUR 44 million. 2. Annual appropriations shall be authorised by the budgetary authority within the limit of the financial perspective. Article 9 Budget distribution Budgetary distribution between the actions shall be as follows: (a) e-learning for promoting digital literacy: around 10 % of total budget; (b) European virtual campuses: around 30 % of total budget; (c) e-twinning of schools in Europe and promotion of teacher training: around 45 % of total budget; (d) transversal actions and monitoring of eLearning action plan: maximum 7,5 % of total budget; (e) technical and administrative assistance: maximum 7,5 % of total budget. Article 10 Participation of candidate countries for accession to the European Union and EEA-EFTA States The conditions and detailed rules for the participation of candidate countries for accession to the European Union and EEA-EFTA States in the programme shall be established in accordance with the relevant provisions of the instruments governing the relations between the Community and these countries. Article 11 Cooperation with third countries On the initiative of the Commission, experts from third countries other than those referred to in Article 10 may be invited to participate in conferences and meetings with the exception of meetings of the Committee referred to in Article 6. The funds allocated for the reimbursement of travel and subsistence expenses, under the applicable Commission regulations, shall not exceed 0,5 % of the programme's total budget. Article 12 Monitoring and evaluation 1. The Commission shall regularly monitor the programme in cooperation with the Member States. This monitoring shall include the report referred to in paragraph 2 and specific activities. 2. The Commission shall ensure external evaluation of the programme at the moment of its completion. This evaluation is intended to assess the relevance, effectiveness and impact of the different actions, and it shall also consider the overall impact of the programme. Special attention shall be paid to social cohesion issues and to equal opportunities issues. This evaluation shall also examine the complementarity between action under the programme and that pursued under other relevant Community policies, instruments and actions. The Commission shall submit to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions an ex post evaluation report by the end of 2007. Article 13 Entry into force This Decision shall enter into force on the 20th day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union. Done at Brussels, 5 December 2003. For the European Parliament The President P. Cox For the Council P. Lunardi (1) OJ C 133, 6.6.2003, p. 33. (2) OJ C 244, 10.10.2003, p. 42. (3) Opinion of the European Parliament of 8 April 2003 (not yet published in the Official Journal), Council Common Position of 16 June 2003 (OJ C 233 E, 30.9.2003, p. 24) and Position of the European Parliament of 21 October 2003 (not yet published in the Official Journal). (4) Decision No 253/2000/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 January 2000 establishing the second phase of the Community action programme in the field of education "Socrates" (OJ L 28, 3.2.2000, p. 1). Decision as amended by Decision No 451/2003/EC (OJ L 69, 13.3.2003, p. 6). (5) Council Decision 1999/382/EC of 26 April 1999 establishing the second phase of the Community vocational training action programme "Leonardo da Vinci" (OJ L 146, 11.6.1999, p. 33). (6) OJ C 34 E, 7.2.2002, p. 153. (7) OJ C 204, 20.7.2001, p. 3. (8) Decision No 1513/2002/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 June 2002 concerning the sixth framework programme of the European Community for research, technological development and demonstration activities, contribution to the creation of the European Research Area and to innovation (2002 to 2006), (OJ L 232, 29.8.2002, p. 1). (9) OJ C 172, 18.6.1999, p. 1. Agreement as amended by Decision 2003/429/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (OJ L 147, 14.6.2003, p. 25). (10) OJ L 184, 17.7.1999, p. 23.
Article 7 
Consistency and complementarity 1. The Commission shall, in cooperation with the Member States, ensure overall consistency and complementarity of the programme with other relevant Community policies, instruments and actions, in particular with the Socrates, Leonardo da Vinci education and training programmes and the Youth programme. 2. The Commission shall ensure efficient linkage and, where appropriate, coordinated actions, between this programme and the programmes and actions in the area of new technologies for education and training, in particular with the relevant actions for research, technological development and demonstration activities under the sixth framework programme. Article 8 Funding 1. The financial framework for the implementation of the programme for the period specified in Article 1 is hereby set at EUR 44 million. 2. Annual appropriations shall be authorised by the budgetary authority within the limit of the financial perspective. Article 9 Budget distribution Budgetary distribution between the actions shall be as follows: (a) e-learning for promoting digital literacy: around 10 % of total budget; (b) European virtual campuses: around 30 % of total budget; (c) e-twinning of schools in Europe and promotion of teacher training: around 45 % of total budget; (d) transversal actions and monitoring of eLearning action plan: maximum 7,5 % of total budget; (e) technical and administrative assistance: maximum 7,5 % of total budget. Article 10 Participation of candidate countries for accession to the European Union and EEA-EFTA States The conditions and detailed rules for the participation of candidate countries for accession to the European Union and EEA-EFTA States in the programme shall be established in accordance with the relevant provisions of the instruments governing the relations between the Community and these countries. Article 11 Cooperation with third countries On the initiative of the Commission, experts from third countries other than those referred to in Article 10 may be invited to participate in conferences and meetings with the exception of meetings of the Committee referred to in Article 6. The funds allocated for the reimbursement of travel and subsistence expenses, under the applicable Commission regulations, shall not exceed 0,5 % of the programme's total budget. Article 12 Monitoring and evaluation 1. The Commission shall regularly monitor the programme in cooperation with the Member States. This monitoring shall include the report referred to in paragraph 2 and specific activities. 2. The Commission shall ensure external evaluation of the programme at the moment of its completion. This evaluation is intended to assess the relevance, effectiveness and impact of the different actions, and it shall also consider the overall impact of the programme. Special attention shall be paid to social cohesion issues and to equal opportunities issues. This evaluation shall also examine the complementarity between action under the programme and that pursued under other relevant Community policies, instruments and actions. The Commission shall submit to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions an ex post evaluation report by the end of 2007. Article 13 Entry into force This Decision shall enter into force on the 20th day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union. Done at Brussels, 5 December 2003. For the European Parliament The President P. Cox For the Council P. Lunardi (1) OJ C 133, 6.6.2003, p. 33. (2) OJ C 244, 10.10.2003, p. 42. (3) Opinion of the European Parliament of 8 April 2003 (not yet published in the Official Journal), Council Common Position of 16 June 2003 (OJ C 233 E, 30.9.2003, p. 24) and Position of the European Parliament of 21 October 2003 (not yet published in the Official Journal). (4) Decision No 253/2000/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 January 2000 establishing the second phase of the Community action programme in the field of education "Socrates" (OJ L 28, 3.2.2000, p. 1). Decision as amended by Decision No 451/2003/EC (OJ L 69, 13.3.2003, p. 6). (5) Council Decision 1999/382/EC of 26 April 1999 establishing the second phase of the Community vocational training action programme "Leonardo da Vinci" (OJ L 146, 11.6.1999, p. 33). (6) OJ C 34 E, 7.2.2002, p. 153. (7) OJ C 204, 20.7.2001, p. 3. (8) Decision No 1513/2002/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 June 2002 concerning the sixth framework programme of the European Community for research, technological development and demonstration activities, contribution to the creation of the European Research Area and to innovation (2002 to 2006), (OJ L 232, 29.8.2002, p. 1). (9) OJ C 172, 18.6.1999, p. 1. Agreement as amended by Decision 2003/429/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (OJ L 147, 14.6.2003, p. 25). (10) OJ L 184, 17.7.1999, p. 23.
Article 8 
Funding 1. The financial framework for the implementation of the programme for the period specified in Article 1 is hereby set at EUR 44 million. 2. Annual appropriations shall be authorised by the budgetary authority within the limit of the financial perspective. Article 9 Budget distribution Budgetary distribution between the actions shall be as follows: (a) e-learning for promoting digital literacy: around 10 % of total budget; (b) European virtual campuses: around 30 % of total budget; (c) e-twinning of schools in Europe and promotion of teacher training: around 45 % of total budget; (d) transversal actions and monitoring of eLearning action plan: maximum 7,5 % of total budget; (e) technical and administrative assistance: maximum 7,5 % of total budget. Article 10 Participation of candidate countries for accession to the European Union and EEA-EFTA States The conditions and detailed rules for the participation of candidate countries for accession to the European Union and EEA-EFTA States in the programme shall be established in accordance with the relevant provisions of the instruments governing the relations between the Community and these countries. Article 11 Cooperation with third countries On the initiative of the Commission, experts from third countries other than those referred to in Article 10 may be invited to participate in conferences and meetings with the exception of meetings of the Committee referred to in Article 6. The funds allocated for the reimbursement of travel and subsistence expenses, under the applicable Commission regulations, shall not exceed 0,5 % of the programme's total budget. Article 12 Monitoring and evaluation 1. The Commission shall regularly monitor the programme in cooperation with the Member States. This monitoring shall include the report referred to in paragraph 2 and specific activities. 2. The Commission shall ensure external evaluation of the programme at the moment of its completion. This evaluation is intended to assess the relevance, effectiveness and impact of the different actions, and it shall also consider the overall impact of the programme. Special attention shall be paid to social cohesion issues and to equal opportunities issues. This evaluation shall also examine the complementarity between action under the programme and that pursued under other relevant Community policies, instruments and actions. The Commission shall submit to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions an ex post evaluation report by the end of 2007. Article 13 Entry into force This Decision shall enter into force on the 20th day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union. Done at Brussels, 5 December 2003. For the European Parliament The President P. Cox For the Council P. Lunardi (1) OJ C 133, 6.6.2003, p. 33. (2) OJ C 244, 10.10.2003, p. 42. (3) Opinion of the European Parliament of 8 April 2003 (not yet published in the Official Journal), Council Common Position of 16 June 2003 (OJ C 233 E, 30.9.2003, p. 24) and Position of the European Parliament of 21 October 2003 (not yet published in the Official Journal). (4) Decision No 253/2000/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 January 2000 establishing the second phase of the Community action programme in the field of education "Socrates" (OJ L 28, 3.2.2000, p. 1). Decision as amended by Decision No 451/2003/EC (OJ L 69, 13.3.2003, p. 6). (5) Council Decision 1999/382/EC of 26 April 1999 establishing the second phase of the Community vocational training action programme "Leonardo da Vinci" (OJ L 146, 11.6.1999, p. 33). (6) OJ C 34 E, 7.2.2002, p. 153. (7) OJ C 204, 20.7.2001, p. 3. (8) Decision No 1513/2002/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 June 2002 concerning the sixth framework programme of the European Community for research, technological development and demonstration activities, contribution to the creation of the European Research Area and to innovation (2002 to 2006), (OJ L 232, 29.8.2002, p. 1). (9) OJ C 172, 18.6.1999, p. 1. Agreement as amended by Decision 2003/429/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (OJ L 147, 14.6.2003, p. 25). (10) OJ L 184, 17.7.1999, p. 23.
Article 9 
Budget distribution Budgetary distribution between the actions shall be as follows: (a) e-learning for promoting digital literacy: around 10 % of total budget; (b) European virtual campuses: around 30 % of total budget; (c) e-twinning of schools in Europe and promotion of teacher training: around 45 % of total budget; (d) transversal actions and monitoring of eLearning action plan: maximum 7,5 % of total budget; (e) technical and administrative assistance: maximum 7,5 % of total budget. Article 10 Participation of candidate countries for accession to the European Union and EEA-EFTA States The conditions and detailed rules for the participation of candidate countries for accession to the European Union and EEA-EFTA States in the programme shall be established in accordance with the relevant provisions of the instruments governing the relations between the Community and these countries. Article 11 Cooperation with third countries On the initiative of the Commission, experts from third countries other than those referred to in Article 10 may be invited to participate in conferences and meetings with the exception of meetings of the Committee referred to in Article 6. The funds allocated for the reimbursement of travel and subsistence expenses, under the applicable Commission regulations, shall not exceed 0,5 % of the programme's total budget. Article 12 Monitoring and evaluation 1. The Commission shall regularly monitor the programme in cooperation with the Member States. This monitoring shall include the report referred to in paragraph 2 and specific activities. 2. The Commission shall ensure external evaluation of the programme at the moment of its completion. This evaluation is intended to assess the relevance, effectiveness and impact of the different actions, and it shall also consider the overall impact of the programme. Special attention shall be paid to social cohesion issues and to equal opportunities issues. This evaluation shall also examine the complementarity between action under the programme and that pursued under other relevant Community policies, instruments and actions. The Commission shall submit to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions an ex post evaluation report by the end of 2007. Article 13 Entry into force This Decision shall enter into force on the 20th day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union. Done at Brussels, 5 December 2003. For the European Parliament The President P. Cox For the Council P. Lunardi (1) OJ C 133, 6.6.2003, p. 33. (2) OJ C 244, 10.10.2003, p. 42. (3) Opinion of the European Parliament of 8 April 2003 (not yet published in the Official Journal), Council Common Position of 16 June 2003 (OJ C 233 E, 30.9.2003, p. 24) and Position of the European Parliament of 21 October 2003 (not yet published in the Official Journal). (4) Decision No 253/2000/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 January 2000 establishing the second phase of the Community action programme in the field of education "Socrates" (OJ L 28, 3.2.2000, p. 1). Decision as amended by Decision No 451/2003/EC (OJ L 69, 13.3.2003, p. 6). (5) Council Decision 1999/382/EC of 26 April 1999 establishing the second phase of the Community vocational training action programme "Leonardo da Vinci" (OJ L 146, 11.6.1999, p. 33). (6) OJ C 34 E, 7.2.2002, p. 153. (7) OJ C 204, 20.7.2001, p. 3. (8) Decision No 1513/2002/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 June 2002 concerning the sixth framework programme of the European Community for research, technological development and demonstration activities, contribution to the creation of the European Research Area and to innovation (2002 to 2006), (OJ L 232, 29.8.2002, p. 1). (9) OJ C 172, 18.6.1999, p. 1. Agreement as amended by Decision 2003/429/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (OJ L 147, 14.6.2003, p. 25). (10) OJ L 184, 17.7.1999, p. 23.
Article 10 
Participation of candidate countries for accession to the European Union and EEA-EFTA States The conditions and detailed rules for the participation of candidate countries for accession to the European Union and EEA-EFTA States in the programme shall be established in accordance with the relevant provisions of the instruments governing the relations between the Community and these countries. Article 11 Cooperation with third countries On the initiative of the Commission, experts from third countries other than those referred to in Article 10 may be invited to participate in conferences and meetings with the exception of meetings of the Committee referred to in Article 6. The funds allocated for the reimbursement of travel and subsistence expenses, under the applicable Commission regulations, shall not exceed 0,5 % of the programme's total budget. Article 12 Monitoring and evaluation 1. The Commission shall regularly monitor the programme in cooperation with the Member States. This monitoring shall include the report referred to in paragraph 2 and specific activities. 2. The Commission shall ensure external evaluation of the programme at the moment of its completion. This evaluation is intended to assess the relevance, effectiveness and impact of the different actions, and it shall also consider the overall impact of the programme. Special attention shall be paid to social cohesion issues and to equal opportunities issues. This evaluation shall also examine the complementarity between action under the programme and that pursued under other relevant Community policies, instruments and actions. The Commission shall submit to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions an ex post evaluation report by the end of 2007. Article 13 Entry into force This Decision shall enter into force on the 20th day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union. Done at Brussels, 5 December 2003. For the European Parliament The President P. Cox For the Council P. Lunardi (1) OJ C 133, 6.6.2003, p. 33. (2) OJ C 244, 10.10.2003, p. 42. (3) Opinion of the European Parliament of 8 April 2003 (not yet published in the Official Journal), Council Common Position of 16 June 2003 (OJ C 233 E, 30.9.2003, p. 24) and Position of the European Parliament of 21 October 2003 (not yet published in the Official Journal). (4) Decision No 253/2000/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 January 2000 establishing the second phase of the Community action programme in the field of education "Socrates" (OJ L 28, 3.2.2000, p. 1). Decision as amended by Decision No 451/2003/EC (OJ L 69, 13.3.2003, p. 6). (5) Council Decision 1999/382/EC of 26 April 1999 establishing the second phase of the Community vocational training action programme "Leonardo da Vinci" (OJ L 146, 11.6.1999, p. 33). (6) OJ C 34 E, 7.2.2002, p. 153. (7) OJ C 204, 20.7.2001, p. 3. (8) Decision No 1513/2002/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 June 2002 concerning the sixth framework programme of the European Community for research, technological development and demonstration activities, contribution to the creation of the European Research Area and to innovation (2002 to 2006), (OJ L 232, 29.8.2002, p. 1). (9) OJ C 172, 18.6.1999, p. 1. Agreement as amended by Decision 2003/429/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (OJ L 147, 14.6.2003, p. 25). (10) OJ L 184, 17.7.1999, p. 23.
Article 11 
Cooperation with third countries On the initiative of the Commission, experts from third countries other than those referred to in Article 10 may be invited to participate in conferences and meetings with the exception of meetings of the Committee referred to in Article 6. The funds allocated for the reimbursement of travel and subsistence expenses, under the applicable Commission regulations, shall not exceed 0,5 % of the programme's total budget. Article 12 Monitoring and evaluation 1. The Commission shall regularly monitor the programme in cooperation with the Member States. This monitoring shall include the report referred to in paragraph 2 and specific activities. 2. The Commission shall ensure external evaluation of the programme at the moment of its completion. This evaluation is intended to assess the relevance, effectiveness and impact of the different actions, and it shall also consider the overall impact of the programme. Special attention shall be paid to social cohesion issues and to equal opportunities issues. This evaluation shall also examine the complementarity between action under the programme and that pursued under other relevant Community policies, instruments and actions. The Commission shall submit to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions an ex post evaluation report by the end of 2007. Article 13 Entry into force This Decision shall enter into force on the 20th day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union. Done at Brussels, 5 December 2003. For the European Parliament The President P. Cox For the Council P. Lunardi (1) OJ C 133, 6.6.2003, p. 33. (2) OJ C 244, 10.10.2003, p. 42. (3) Opinion of the European Parliament of 8 April 2003 (not yet published in the Official Journal), Council Common Position of 16 June 2003 (OJ C 233 E, 30.9.2003, p. 24) and Position of the European Parliament of 21 October 2003 (not yet published in the Official Journal). (4) Decision No 253/2000/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 January 2000 establishing the second phase of the Community action programme in the field of education "Socrates" (OJ L 28, 3.2.2000, p. 1). Decision as amended by Decision No 451/2003/EC (OJ L 69, 13.3.2003, p. 6). (5) Council Decision 1999/382/EC of 26 April 1999 establishing the second phase of the Community vocational training action programme "Leonardo da Vinci" (OJ L 146, 11.6.1999, p. 33). (6) OJ C 34 E, 7.2.2002, p. 153. (7) OJ C 204, 20.7.2001, p. 3. (8) Decision No 1513/2002/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 June 2002 concerning the sixth framework programme of the European Community for research, technological development and demonstration activities, contribution to the creation of the European Research Area and to innovation (2002 to 2006), (OJ L 232, 29.8.2002, p. 1). (9) OJ C 172, 18.6.1999, p. 1. Agreement as amended by Decision 2003/429/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (OJ L 147, 14.6.2003, p. 25). (10) OJ L 184, 17.7.1999, p. 23.
Article 12 
Monitoring and evaluation 1. The Commission shall regularly monitor the programme in cooperation with the Member States. This monitoring shall include the report referred to in paragraph 2 and specific activities. 2. The Commission shall ensure external evaluation of the programme at the moment of its completion. This evaluation is intended to assess the relevance, effectiveness and impact of the different actions, and it shall also consider the overall impact of the programme. Special attention shall be paid to social cohesion issues and to equal opportunities issues. This evaluation shall also examine the complementarity between action under the programme and that pursued under other relevant Community policies, instruments and actions. The Commission shall submit to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions an ex post evaluation report by the end of 2007. Article 13 Entry into force This Decision shall enter into force on the 20th day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union. Done at Brussels, 5 December 2003. For the European Parliament The President P. Cox For the Council P. Lunardi (1) OJ C 133, 6.6.2003, p. 33. (2) OJ C 244, 10.10.2003, p. 42. (3) Opinion of the European Parliament of 8 April 2003 (not yet published in the Official Journal), Council Common Position of 16 June 2003 (OJ C 233 E, 30.9.2003, p. 24) and Position of the European Parliament of 21 October 2003 (not yet published in the Official Journal). (4) Decision No 253/2000/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 January 2000 establishing the second phase of the Community action programme in the field of education "Socrates" (OJ L 28, 3.2.2000, p. 1). Decision as amended by Decision No 451/2003/EC (OJ L 69, 13.3.2003, p. 6). (5) Council Decision 1999/382/EC of 26 April 1999 establishing the second phase of the Community vocational training action programme "Leonardo da Vinci" (OJ L 146, 11.6.1999, p. 33). (6) OJ C 34 E, 7.2.2002, p. 153. (7) OJ C 204, 20.7.2001, p. 3. (8) Decision No 1513/2002/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 June 2002 concerning the sixth framework programme of the European Community for research, technological development and demonstration activities, contribution to the creation of the European Research Area and to innovation (2002 to 2006), (OJ L 232, 29.8.2002, p. 1). (9) OJ C 172, 18.6.1999, p. 1. Agreement as amended by Decision 2003/429/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (OJ L 147, 14.6.2003, p. 25). (10) OJ L 184, 17.7.1999, p. 23.
Article 13 
Entry into force This Decision shall enter into force on the 20th day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union. Done at Brussels, 5 December 2003