REPORT on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing the Rights and Values programme

17.12.2018 - (COM(2018)0383 – C8‑0234/2018 – 2018/0207(COD)) - ***I

Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs
Rapporteur: Bodil Valero
Rapporteurs for the opinion (*):
Sylvie Guillaume, Committee on Culture and Education,
Sirpa Pietikäinen, Committee on Women's Rights and Gender Equality
(*) Associated committees – Rule 54 of the Rules of Procedure

Amendments

• 001-112 (PDF - 261 KB)
• 001-112 (DOC - 66 KB)
• 113-113 (PDF - 186 KB)
• 113-113 (DOC - 11 KB)
• 114-114 (PDF - 188 KB)
• 114-114 (DOC - 11 KB)
• 115-115 (PDF - 224 KB)
• 115-115 (DOC - 77 KB)
• 116-116 (PDF - 90 KB)
• 116-116 (DOC - 45 KB)

DRAFT EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION

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))

(Ordinary legislative procedure: first reading)

The European Parliament,

–  having regard to the Commission proposal to Parliament and the Council (COM(2018)0383),

–  having regard to Article 294(2) and Articles 16(2), 19(2), 21(2), 24, 167 and 168 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, pursuant to which the Commission submitted the proposal to Parliament (C8‑0234/2018),

–  having regard to Article 294(3) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

–  having regard to the opinion of the European Economic and Social Committee of ... [1],

–  having regard to the opinion of the Committee of the Regions of ... [2],

–  having regard to Rules 59 of its Rules of Procedure,

–  having regard to the report of the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs and the opinions of the Committee on Culture and Education. the Committee on Women's Rights and Gender Equality, the Committee on Budgets, the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs, Committee on Legal Affairs and the Committee on Constitutional Affairs (A8-0468/2018),

1.  Adopts its position at first reading hereinafter set out;

2.  Calls on the Commission to refer the matter to Parliament again if it replaces, substantially amends or intends to substantially amend its proposal;

3.  Instructs its President to forward its position to the Council, the Commission and the national parliaments.

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.
Justification
It is important to highlight the particular importance of human dignity, taking into account its inclusion in the opening article of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU.
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-20201a 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 Council8 and the Europe for Citizens programme established by Council Regulation (EU) No 390/20149 , (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 EUproject, 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, Rights, Equality 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 Council8 and the Europe for Citizens programme established by Council Regulation (EU) No 390/201499 , (hereafter 'the predecessor Programmes') and it will be adjusted to address new challenges to European values'.
__________________	__________________
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)	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)	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)
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.
Justification
The Rapporteur suggests to better explore and highlight synergies between the Programme and the European Commission Proposal for a Regulation on the protection of the Union's budget in case of generalised deficiencies as regards the rule of law in the Member States.
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 202010 ’ and in the Council Recommendation of 09 December 2013 on effective Roma integration measures in the Member States11 .	(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 202010 ’ and in the Council Recommendation of 09 December 2013 on effective Roma integration measures in the Member States11 .
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10 COM(2011)173.	10 COM(2011)173.
11 OJ C 378, 24.12.2013, p. 1.	11 OJ C 378, 24.12.2013, p. 1.
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 Council12 and Directive (EU) 2016/680 of the European Parliament and of the Council13 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 Council12 and Directive (EU) 2016/680 of the European Parliament and of the Council13 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.
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12 OJ L 119, 4.5.2016, p. 1-88.	12 OJ L 119, 4.5.2016, p. 1-88.
13 OJ L 119, 4.5.2016, p. 89-131.	13 OJ L 119, 4.5.2016, p. 89-131.
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 Council14. 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 Council14. 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.
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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).
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/EC15 and 2004/113/EC16 , and by Directives 2006/54/EC17 and 2010/41/EU18 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/EC15 and 2004/113/EC16, and by Directives 2006/54/EC17 and 2010/41/EU18 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.
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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).	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).	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).	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).	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).
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 Council20 Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2988/9521 Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/9622 and Council Regulation (EU) 2017/193923 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 Council24 . 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 Council20 Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2988/9521 Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/9622 and Council Regulation (EU) 2017/193923 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 Council24 . 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.
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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 L248, 18.9.2013, 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 L248, 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, 23.12.95, 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, 23.12.95, 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 L292.15.11.96,, p.2).	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 L292.15.11.96,, 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 L283, 31.10.2017,, p.1).	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 L283, 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).	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).
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/EU25], 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/EU25], 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.
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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).
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.
Justification
The European Parliament in its resolution of 14 March 2018 on the next MFF: Preparing the Parliament’s position on the MFF post-20206 (2017/2052(INI)) called for a 30 % target for the EU budget expenditures supporting climate objectives to be reached as soon as possible and at the latest by 2027.
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.
Justification
The work programmes should be adopted by means of delegated acts and this recital needs to be adapted accordingly. It should also be aligned with the wording of the delegation of powers referred to in Article 16.
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 Council26 .	deleted
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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)
Justification
This recital needs to be deleted since the proposal should not include any reference to implementing acts.
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 organisedjoint 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].
Justification
In line with the decision of the Conference of Presidents of 13 September 2018, this amendment reflects the figures contained in the interim report on the Multiannual Financial Framework 2021-2027 adopted by the plenary on 14 November 2018.
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 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.
	4.  Resources allocated to a Member State under shared management may be transferred to the Programme in the following cases:
	(a)  where the Commission activates the EU Rule of Law Framework;
	(b)  where one third of the Member States, the European Parliament or the Commission submits a reasoned proposal to the Council in accordance with Article 7(1) TEU to determine that there is a clear risk of a serious breach by the Member State concerned of the values enshrined in Article 2 TEU;
	(c)  where one third of the Member States or the Commission submits a reasoned proposal to the European Council in accordance with Article 7(2) TEU to determine the existence of a serious and persistent breach by that Member State of the values enshrined in Article 2 TEU.
	5.  The Commission shall implement the resources referred to in paragraph 4 of this Article directly in accordance with point (a) of Article 62(1) of the Financial Regulation. Where possible, those resources shall be used for the benefit of the Member State concerned.
	The Commission may make a proposal to the Council to transfer the resources as referred to in paragraph 4 of this Article after consulting the European Parliament. A proposal by the Commission shall be deemed adopted by the Council unless the Council decides, by means of an implementing act, to reject such a proposal by qualified majority within one month of the submission of the Commission proposal.
	6.  The Commission shall keep the European Parliament informed of the implementation of this article. In particular, the Commission shall, when one of the conditions set out in paragraph 1 is fulfilled for a Member State, immediately inform the European Parliament and, in the cases listed in paragraph 4, provide details of the Funds and programmes which could be subject to a transfer of resources. The European Parliament may invite the Commission for a structured dialogue on the application of this Article.
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) of the Treaty on the European Union, 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;
Justification
This formulation seeks to exclude third countries from participating in funding for objectives relating to the new Union values strand as per Article 2(2)(-a) new.
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.
Justification
The work programmes should be adopted by means of delegated acts. This amendment proposes the appropriate wording.
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.
Justification
This amendment aims at ensuring a more consistent wording within the same paragraph.
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 easilyy 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.
Justification
The work programmes should be adopted by means of delegated acts. This amendment proposes the appropriate wording.
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.
Justification
The work programmes should be adopted by means of delegated acts. This amendment proposes the appropriate wording.
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.
Justification
The work programmes should be adopted by means of delegated acts. This amendment proposes the appropriate wording.
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.
Justification
This article needs to be deleted since the proposal should not include any reference to implementing acts.
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 activities1 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.
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.
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]    OJ C ... / Not yet published in the Official Journal.
• [2]    OJ C ... / Not yet published in the Official Journal.

EXPLANATORY STATEMENT

On the 30th of May 2018, the European Commission published its proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing the Rights and Values programme as part of the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2021-2027. The Rights and Values Programme brings together the 2014-2020 programmes “Rights, Equality and Citizenship” and “Europe for Citizens”. The proposal aims at protecting and promoting common European rights and values as enshrined in the EU Treaties and Charter of Fundamental Rights, including by supporting civil society organisations, in order to sustain open, democratic, rights-based, equal and inclusive societies. While the rapporteur welcomes the Commission’s intention to ensure the continuation of existing programmes as they play a key role in promoting and implementing EU rights and values, the proposal falls short in addressing some of the raising challenges to common European values and rights the Union is currently facing.

In the European Parliament resolution of 19 April 2018 on the need to establish a European Values Instrument to support civil society organisations which promote fundamental values within the European Union at local and national level, the European Parliament urged the Commission to propose a European Values Instrument as part of the MFF 2021-2027, designed to provide financial support for civil society on local and national level to counter the backlash against democracy, rule of law and fundamental rights in the EU. The instrument would be complementary to already existing programmes and have a funding level corresponding to EUs spending on value-promotion in third countries.

Against this background, the rapporteur proposes several changes in her draft report in order to reflect these concerns and make the Programme more effective in view of protecting and promoting these values within the Union.

Scope

In order to align the programme objectives with the shared values laid down in Article 2 TEU, on which the European Union is founded, the rapporteur proposes to expand the scope of the proposal by referring specifically to democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights as enshrined in Article 2 TEU in the general objective of the Programme. In times when democracy and rule of law in Europe are facing challenges, the rapporteur considers that there is an urgent need for this instrument to be adequately funded and easily accessible for supporting citizens engaged in promoting these most endangered European values. 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 deriving from the Treaties. The way in which the rule of law is implemented in the Member States plays a key role in ensuring mutual trust among Member States and in their legal systems.

Therefore, the rapporteur suggests adding a new specific objective (the Union values strand) referring to democracy, fundamental rights and the rule of law that will fund corresponding actions at local, regional, national and transnational levels.

Within the framework of this new specific objective the rapporteur considers that the programme should focus on protecting and promoting democracy and the rule of law, including ensuring the independence of the judiciary, effective judicial protection by independent courts, including of fundamental rights, transparency and non-arbitrariness by public authorities and law enforcement, providing support for independent human rights defenders and civil society organisations undertaking monitoring compliance with the rule of law, whistleblower defence and support initiatives that promote transparency, accountability, integrity and absence of corruption.

As respect and protection of fundamental rights represents the basis of a democratic society, the rapporteur considers that specific attention should be given also to strengthening freedom of expression, peaceful assembly or association, media freedom and pluralism of the media, academic freedom, freedom of religion or belief and the right to privacy and family life.

Against this background, the rapporteur welcomes equally the emphasis put on the principle of equality and non-discrimination, as well on the need to combat all forms of violence in Article 3 and 5 of the proposal. Article 21(1) of the Charter of Fundamental Rights clearly prohibits any discrimination based on ground such as sex, race, colour, ethnic or social origin, genetic features, languages or membership of a national minority. According to the second European Union Minorities and Discrimination Survey of the European Union agency for Fundamental Rights, violence, harassment, threats and xenophobic speech targeting especially LGTBI people, people belonging to ethnic or religious minorities, as well as asylum seekers and migrants remained pervasive and grave across the European Union in 2017.

Within the general objective of protecting and promoting democracy and the rule of law, the rapporteur suggests that the Daphne strand promotes greater access to justice and to mechanisms for reporting crime for all victims of violence. (This includes journalists and other media actors who face multiple attacks, threats and pressures from state and non-state actors across the EU).

The rapporteur proposes also that certain activities eligible for funding in Annex I should be brought into an article in the proposal text to facilitate the understanding and use of the Programme. Several changes are proposed to the activities list in order to clarify some of the eligible activities under the new strand on Union values as well as to highlight that advocacy, capacity building and awareness raising activities are also supported via this Programme.

Budget

Given the changed political landscape in the Union and raising challenges to European values that EU is currently facing, the rapporteur considers that the proposed seven-year budget of 642 million EUR (divided into 409 million EUR for the “Equality and Rights” and 233 million EUR for the “Citizens engagement and participation” strand) is insufficient and cannot respond to the needs of EU citizens to strengthen and protect EU values, as part of pluralist, democratic, open and inclusive society.

Having regard to the repeated calls by civil society organisations for an increase in the budget of existing programmes as well as the extended scope proposed, including the new strand dedicated to Union values, the rapporteur is putting forward the following budget allocation based on the Parliament resolution from April 2018; in total 1.974.457 million EUR in current prices, divided as follows, 1 billion EUR for the new Union values strand, 474,457 million EUR for the ”Equality and Rights” and 500 million EUR for “Citizens engagement and participation” strand. These amounts represent a significant increase in comparison with the proposed budget by the Commission, nonetheless, the rapporteur is of the opinion that a substantial increase is both crucial and necessary in order to respond effectively to today’s challenges to European values.

In order to ensure that civil society organisations can properly benefit from the Programme funding, the rapporteur also proposes that at least 40% of the funding within each objective shall be earmarked for non-government organisations.

The rapporteur considers that mechanisms to ensure a link between Union funding policies and the values of the Union should be further refined, allowing the Commission to make a proposal to the Council to transfer resources allocated to a Member State under shared management to the Programme where that Member State is subject to procedures related to the Union values. Specific provisions have been proposed by the rapporteur as regards a limited list of situations when resources allocated to a Member State under shared management may be transferred to the Programme, the procedure to be followed and as regards rights of scrutiny of the European Parliament.

Access to funding

The rapporteur considers that more support should be given to grassroots projects promoting European values as defined in Article 2 of the EU Treaty - particularly democratic standards, rule of law and fundamental rights – as prerequisite for an open and inclusive society. This is in line with the opinion also expressed by FRA in its study on Challenges facing civil society organisations working on human rights in the EU, published in January 2018 where it is clearly mentioned that ʺEU institutions and Member States are encouraged to ensure that funding is made available for CSOs working on the protection and promotion of the EU’s foundational values of fundamental rights, democracy and the rule of law; including for small grassroots organisations. Such funding should cover, as appropriate, the variety of activities of CSOs such as service provision, watchdog activities, advocacy, litigation, campaigning, human rights and civic education and awareness raising.ʺ.

The draft report as proposed by the rapporteur responds to the general goal that the EU should provide targeted financial support to CSOs which are active at local, regional and national level in promoting and protecting the values on which the EU is founded. Consequently, specific amendments have been put forward in order to underline the attention given throughout the Programme to organisations operating on local, regional and national level. While actions on transnational level plays an important role, many challenges to European values have local origins and needs to be addresses both at local and European level.

Simplification of procedures and easier access to funding is also one of the main objectives of the rapporteur for this programme. Therefore, the text includes references to simplified cost options, fast and flexible grant-making procedures and user-friendly applications such as multiannual operating grants, lump sums, flat rates, unit costs, cascading grants and co-funding in kind. Equally the rapporteur proposes that reporting procedures should be operationalised and further strengthened as part of the implementation of this Programme The rapporteur also believes that the participation of civil society organisations is crucial to the planning, implementation and evaluation of the Programme. Hence, the Commission should ensure a regular dialogue with the beneficiaries of the Programme and other relevant stakeholders through the establishment of a Civil Dialogue Group.

Input from stakeholders

In preparation of her draft, the rapporteur has collected input from a number of NGO representatives through organised roundtable discussions in Brussels and Stockholm, as well as bilateral meetings on several occasions. The rapporteur has also advised with representatives of other European agencies and stakeholders. The full list can be found in the annex.

ANNEX: LIST OF ENTITIES OR PERSONSFROM WHOM THE RAPPORTEUR HAS RECEIVED INPUT

The following list is drawn up on a purely voluntary basis under the exclusive responsibility of the rapporteur. The rapporteur has received input from the following entities or persons in the preparation of the report, until the adoption thereof in committee:

Entity and/or person
European Economic and Social Committee
Committee of the Regions
FRA (Fundamental Rights Agency)
EQUINET (European Network of Equality Bodies)
Stefan Batory Foundation
Civil Liberties Union for European Parliament
National Contact Points, e.g. Germany and France
Council of European Municipalities and Regions
European Humanist Federation
Civil Society Europe
DEF Europe
European Foundation Centre
AGE Platform Europa
LLL Platform lifelong learning
European Volunteer Centre
European Civic forum
European Youth Forum
International planned parenthood Federation,
Front line defenders
The Foundation for Lifelong Learning PERITIA
IPPF European Network
Swedish Agency for Youth and Civil Society (MUCF)
The Swedish Youth/Student Association of International Affairs (UF Sverige)
Sverok
National council for Swedish Youth Organisations (LSU)
PEN Sweden
Diakonia
Swedish Women’s Lobby
UN Human Rights (OHCHR) Regional Office for Europe

OPINION of the Committee on Budgets (8.11.2018)

for the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs

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))

Rapporteur for opinion: Jordi Solé

AMENDMENTS

The Committee on Budgets calls on the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs, as the committee responsible, to take into account the following amendments:

Amendment    1 Draft legislative resolution Paragraph 1 a (new)
Draft legislative resolution	Amendment
	1a.   Recalls its resolution of 30 May 2018 on the 2021-2027 multiannual financial framework and own resources1a; stresses the importance of the horizontal principles that should underpin the MFF and all related Union policies; requests, therefore, the mainstreaming of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into all Union policies and initiatives of the next MFF; further emphasises that the elimination of discrimination is vital to fulfil the EU’s commitments towards an inclusive Europe and deplores the lack of gender mainstreaming and gender equality commitments in Union policies, as presented in the MFF proposals;
	_______________
	a Text adopted, P8_TA(2018)0226
Amendment    2 Draft legislative resolution Paragraph 1 b (new)
Draft legislative resolution	Amendment
	1b.   Recalls its resolution of 14 March 2018 on the next MFF: Preparing the Parliament’s position on the MFF post-20201a; reiterates 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; recalls its recommendation on setting up an internal European Democracy Fund for the strengthened support of civil society and NGOs working in the fields of democracy and human rights, to be managed by the Commission;
	_______________
	1a Text adopted, P8_TA(2018)0075
Amendment    3 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 Rights, Values and Citizenship programme
Amendment    4 Proposal for a regulation Recital 1 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(1a)  In its resolution of 14 March 2018 on the next MFF: Preparing the Parliament’s position on the MFF post-20201a 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 and underlines that a stronger and a more ambitious Union can only be achieved if it is provided with reinforced financial means. Continuous 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 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)  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, together with local and regional authorities as well as their representative associations at the national and European level, need 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. The Programme shall ensure continued support for the implementation and further development of existing local and regional initiatives that contribute to the achievement of these objectives, such as the European Charter for Equality of Women and Men in Local Life.
Amendment    6 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)  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 with maximum synergies with the European Social Fund Plus.
Amendment    7 Proposal for a regulation Recital 8 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(8 a)   Article 8 TFEU lays down the principle of gender mainstreaming in all Union activities. A proper implementation of gender mainstreaming requires the allocation of adequate resources and transparency in the budget lines dedicated to promoting gender equality and to combating gender discrimination.
Amendment    8 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    9 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    10 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    11 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.
Justification
The European Parliament in its resolution of 14 March 2018 on the next MFF: Preparing the Parliament’s position on the MFF post-20206 (2017/2052(INI)) called for a 30 % target for the EU budget expenditures supporting climate objectives to be reached as soon as possible and at the latest by 2027.
Amendment    12 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 EU Treaties, including by supporting civil society organisations and local and regional authorities and their representative associations, in order to sustain open, democratic and inclusive societies.
Amendment    13 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 promote a Europe for citizens through enhancing their engagement and participation in the democratic life of the Union (Citizens’ engagement and participation strand),
Amendment    14 Proposal for a regulation Article 2 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	2a.  The Commission shall have a regular dialogue with the beneficiaries of the Programme, in particular civil society as well as local and regional authorities and their representative associations in the definition of multi-annual and annual priorities along the programming period. A Civil Dialogue will be established as the main platform for this purpose, which shall be structured along the different specific objectives of the Programme.
Amendment    15 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 harassment and violence against children, young people and women, as well as violence against other groups at risk, that occur online and/or in the physical realm, including places of work and public spaces.
Amendment    16 Proposal for a regulation Aricle 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).
Justification
In line with the decision of the Conference of Presidents of 13 September 2018, the compromise amendment reflects the latest breakdown of the MFF per programme as proposed for adoption by the MFF Rapporteurs in view of the vote on the draft interim report on the proposal for a Council regulation on the Multiannual Financial Framework 2021-2027 – Parliament’s position with a view to an agreement.#
Amendment    17 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    18 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 work programme shall be adopted by the Commission by means of a delegated act. The Commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with Article 16.
Amendment    19 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 be collected, where applicable, disaggregated by gender. The list of indicators are set out in Annex II.
Amendment    20 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 mainstreamed, include a specific chapter for each strand and carried out in a timely manner to feed into the decision-making process.
Amendment    21 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 Article 13 and 14 shall be conferred on the Commission until 31 December 2027.
Amendment    22 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 to multiple audiences, including the media and the public, thereby showing the Union added value and aiding the data gathering efforts of the Commission in order to enhance budgetary transparency.
Amendment    23 Proposal for a regulation Annex I – paragraph 1 – introductory part
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The specific objectives of the Programme referred to in Article 2(2) will be pursued in particular through support to the following activities:	The specific objectives of the Programme referred to in Article 2(2) will be pursued in particular through support to the following activities, at subnational, national and European levels:
Amendment    24 Proposal for a regulation Annex I – paragraph 1 – point c
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(c)  analytical and monitoring activities1 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;	(c)  analytical and monitoring activities1 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;
_______________	_______________
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	1 These activities include for instance the collection of data and statistics, disaggregated by sex and age; 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.
Amendment    25 Proposal for a regulation Annex I – paragraph 1 – point g
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(g)  bringing together Europeans of different nationalities and cultures by giving them the opportunity to participate in town-twinning activities;	(g)  bringing together Europeans of different nationalities and cultures by giving them the opportunity to participate in town-twinning activities, including small bilateral twinning projects and network of towns;
Amendment    26 Proposal for a regulation Annex I – paragraph 1 – point h
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(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;	(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 and local and regional authorities as well as their representative associations;
Amendment    27 Proposal for a regulation Annex I – paragraph 1 – point j
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(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.	(j)  developing the capacity of European networks through multiannual operating grants to promote and further develop Union law, enhance bottom-up critical debates on policy goals and strategies and supporting civil society as well as local and regional authorities and their representative associations active in the areas covered by the Programme.
Amendment    28 Proposal for a regulation Annex I – paragraph 1 – point k a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(ka)  Strengthening National Contact Points (NCPs) and create better synergies between the policy developments in the field of citizenship, the objectives of the Programme and the work of NCPs and beneficiaries.
Amendment    29 Proposal for a regulation Annex I – paragraph 1 – point k b (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(kb)  Strengthen the online platform showcasing projects developed by beneficiaries, as well as provide guidance for potential beneficiaries, disseminate project results and enhance visibility and follow-up.
Amendment    30 Proposal for a regulation Annex I – paragraph 1 – point k c (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(kc)  Further support critical but constructive exchanges addressing challenges which mark the daily life of Europeans such as: employment, integration of migrants, housing, mobility or education.
Amendment    31 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 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 which should be, where relevant, broken down by sex, age and disability:
Justification
Tracking of the above-mentioned categories within the programme participants would support the mainstreaming of gender equality and non-discrimination in concrete terms.
Amendment    32 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    33 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 yearly:
Amendment    34 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    35 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

PROCEDURE – COMMITTEE ASKED FOR OPINION

Title	Establishing the Rights and Values programme
References	COM(2018)0383 – C8-0234/2018 – 2018/0207(COD)
Committee responsible        Date announced in plenary	LIBE 14.6.2018
Opinion by        Date announced in plenary	BUDG 14.6.2018
Rapporteur        Date appointed	Jordi Solé 28.6.2018
Discussed in committee	26.9.2018
Date adopted	5.11.2018
Result of final vote	+: –: 0:	24 4 0
Members present for the final vote	Jean Arthuis, Reimer Böge, Lefteris Christoforou, Gérard Deprez, André Elissen, José Manuel Fernandes, Eider Gardiazabal Rubial, Ingeborg Gräßle, Monika Hohlmeier, John Howarth, Bernd Kölmel, Zbigniew Kuźmiuk, Vladimír Maňka, Siegfried Mureşan, Jan Olbrycht, Paul Rübig, Eleftherios Synadinos, Indrek Tarand, Isabelle Thomas, Inese Vaidere, Daniele Viotti, Tiemo Wölken, Marco Zanni
Substitutes present for the final vote	Karine Gloanec Maurin, Alain Lamassoure, Janusz Lewandowski, Andrey Novakov
Substitutes under Rule 200(2) present for the final vote	Michael Detjen

FINAL VOTE BY ROLL CALL IN COMMITTEE ASKED FOR OPINION

24	+
ALDE	Jean Arthuis, Gérard Deprez
ECR	Zbigniew Kuźmiuk
PPE	Reimer Böge, Lefteris Christoforou, José Manuel Fernandes, Ingeborg Gräßle, Monika Hohlmeier, Alain Lamassoure, Janusz Lewandowski, Siegfried Mureşan, Andrey Novakov, Jan Olbrycht, Paul Rübig, Inese Vaidere
S&D	Michael Detjen, Eider Gardiazabal Rubial, Karine Gloanec Maurin, John Howarth, Vladimír Maňka, Isabelle Thomas, Daniele Viotti, Tiemo Wölken
VERTS/ALE	Indrek Tarand

4	-
ECR	Bernd Kölmel
ENF	André Elissen, Marco Zanni
NI	Eleftherios Synadinos

0	0

Key to symbols:

+  :  in favour

-  :  against

0  :  abstention

OPINION of the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs (21.11.2018)

for the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs

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))

Rapporteur for opinion: Jean Lambert

SHORT JUSTIFICATION

Background

Article 2 of the Treaty of the European Union states that 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. Since European societies have lately been confronted with extremism and divisions, which challenge the idea of open and inclusive societies, the Commission has evaluated that it is more important than ever to promote and strengthen these values. Furthermore, people are still victims of discrimination on the ground of sex, racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age and sexual orientation, and women, children and other people at risk face violence daily. They are also not sufficiently aware of the values of the EU and of their rights as citizens, and some are even questioning them.

The Commission has found that the fragmented nature and limited resources that have been dedicated to this area so far are not enough to answer all these challenges, so it has combined them into a new Rights and Values programme, to be funded under a new Justice, Rights and Values Fund, with a total allocation of EUR 641 705 000. The proposal for a regulation establishing the Rights and Values programme was published on 30 May 2018.

The proposed new programme groups together two existing funding programmes, the Rights, Equality and Citizenship programme and Europe for Citizens programme. The general objective of the new programme is to protect and promote the rights and values enshrined in the EU Treaties and the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights. This general objective will be achieved through three specific objectives:

•  promotion of equality and rights (Equality and rights strand): focus on preventing and combating inequalities and discrimination, supporting comprehensive policies to promote and mainstream gender equality and anti-discrimination, as well as policies to combat racism and all forms of intolerance, protecting and promoting the rights of the child, the rights of people with disabilities, Union citizenship rights and the right to the protection of personal data;

•  promotion of citizen engagement and participation in the life of the Union (Citizens’ engagement and participation strand): focus on increasing citizens’ understanding of the Union, its history, cultural heritage and diversity, and promoting exchange and cooperation between citizens of different countries;

•  fight against all forms of violence (Daphne strand): focus on preventing and combating all forms of violence against children, young people, women and other groups at risk, and supporting and protecting victims of such violence.

Methodology

Within the EP, the overall lead committee is LIBE. EMPL is an opinion giving committee under rule 53.

Key points for the rapporteur in her opinion

•  Rename the Programme to ‘Rights, Equality and Values Programme’ to give expression to the EU’s ambition of achieving equality for all.

•  Update wording of the general objective of the Programme to underline equality and rights as goals already present in Recital 3 of the text: ‘The ultimate objective is to nurture and sustain rights-based, equal, inclusive and democratic society’.

•  Extend the personal scope of the new program in line with the ESF+, namely to people.

•  Make sure that combating online racism and hate-speech is given due attention in the next programing period.

•  Given, the entry into force of the new GDPR, protection related to data processing in the employment context should be given particular attention, given the sensitivity of this data.

•  Moving the eligible actions list into the basic act, such an important part of a legislation cannot be hidden in the annex! Therefore the proposal of a new §9(a) and moving the entire list of Annex I into this new article.

•  Equinet should be guaranteed funding under the program as it is a network of statutory bodies working together implementing and monitoring application of EU law covered by the Programme.

•  The rapporteur proposes an update of the list of activities. Key points for her include the following:

-  the actions should not only focus on improvement of knowledge, but also of use of the acquis relevant for the Programme;

-  strengthen the creative aspects of the actions, as in her experience good creative actions tend to be effective and efficient in reaching the program objectives as set out in §2;

-  bring back actions that are supported currently but not listed in the new proposal on supporting key actors and on educational materials.

•  Finally the rapporteur proposes to make a clear distinction in annex II between result indicators and outcome indicators and makes suggestions for outcome indicators to be included in the reporting.

AMENDMENTS

The Committee on Employment and Social Affairs calls on the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs, as the committee responsible, to take into account the following amendments:

Amendment    1 Proposal for a regulation Recital 1 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(1a)  Guided furthermore by acts that further outline these values, in particular Council Directive 2000/43/EC of 29 June 2000 implementing the principle of equal treatment between persons irrespective of racial or ethnic origin and Council Directive 2000/78/EC of 27 November2000 establishing a general framework for equal treatment in employment and occupation, and following the obligations of the EU party to the UN Convention on the rights of persons with disabilities, and in line with Inter-institutional Proclamation on the European Pillar of Social Rights (2017/C 428/09) as well as the European Parliament Resolution of 19 April 2008 on the need to establish a European Values Instrument to support civil society organisations which promote fundamental values within the European Union at local and national level (2018/2619(RSP), the Union should continue to uphold and promote the rights and values spelled out in Articles 2 and 3 of the Treaty of the European Union.
Amendment    2 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 Council8 and the Europe for Citizens programme established by Council Regulation (EU) No 390/20149, (hereafter 'the predecessor Programmes').	(2)  Those rights and values cannot be taken for granted and must continue to be protected, promoted, 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 and the still persisting challenges of intolerance and discrimination it is more important than ever to promote, strengthen and defend justice, rights, EU values and the rule of law, which is inseparable from democracy itself, and a condition for its effectiveness. To promote and support human rights, respect for human dignity, social rights, rights of minorities, freedom, democracy, equality, and the rule of law 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 Council8 and the Europe for Citizens programme established by Council Regulation (EU) No 390/20149, (hereafter 'the predecessor Programmes').
_________________________________	__________________________________
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)	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)	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)
Amendment    3 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 support, disseminate and protect our common values, rights and rich diversity, keeping them alive and vibrant. The ultimate objective is to defend, nurture and sustain a rights-based, equal, inclusive and democratic society including a vibrant civil society. The activities financed should aim at encouraging people's democratic, civic and social participation and fostering the rich diversity of European society both within and among Member States, based on our common values, 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.
Amendment    4 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 Rights and Values programme (the 'Programme') should allow developing synergies to tackle the challenges that are common to the dissemination, 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 and also developing new innovative measures. 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.
Justification
Reliance should not be placed entirely on existing measures, but new ones should also be developed.
Amendment    5 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, 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' awareness and active engagement in society and ultimately their involvement in the democratic and social life of the Union, strengthening social inclusion and fighting marginalization. At the same time supporting activities promoting mutual understanding, diversity, dialogue and respect for others fosters a sense of belonging, social integration 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. The values of mutual understanding, dialogue and respect for diversity can only be embedded on a European level if they are well-rooted in Member States themselves and in their regions. Therefore the Programme should also promote these values within Member States among the various national, ethnic, linguistic or religious groups that together form the cultural richness and diversity of their society.
Amendment    6 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)  Citizens should also be more aware of the full set of their rights deriving from citizenship of the Union, including non-discrimination provisions within the free movement of workers, as set out in Article 45(2) TFEU and should feel at ease about living, travelling, studying, working and volunteering in another Member State, and should be entitled to enjoy and exercise all their citizenship rights, place their trust in equal access, full enforceability and protection of their rights including their social rights without any discrimination on any grounds, no matter where in the Union they happen to be. Furthermore, given that part of civil society is currently facing multiple difficulties in Member State, civil society and in particular civil society organizations 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 with special regard to the Charter.
Amendment    7 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)  Equality between women and men is a fundamental value and an objective of the European Union. Article 8 TFEU gives the Union the task of eliminating inequalities and promoting an effective equality between men and women through all its activities. Discrimination against and unequal treatment of any person based on their sex and/or gender 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 and mainstreaming gender equality in all activities of the Union, including in work and employment, where discrimination persists on the level of pay and on access to the labour market, is therefore a core activity for the Union and a driver for economic growth and should be supported by the programme.
Amendment    8 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, groups at risk and particularly vulnerable persons. An effort must be made to avoid overlaps between programmes and double funding. 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, groups at risk, and particularly vulnerable persons, 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.
Amendment    9 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 202010 ’ and in the Council Recommendation of 09 December 2013 on effective Roma integration measures in the Member States11 .	(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 which states that any discrimination based on any ground such as sex, race, colour, ethnic or social origin, genetic features, language, religion or belief, political or any other opinion, membership of a national minority, property, birth, disability, age or sexual orientation shall be prohibited, and that within the scope of application of the Treaties and without prejudice to those Treaties or the special provisions contained therein, discrimination on grounds of nationality should be prohibited, while the whole chapter III of the Charter is dedicated to equality. Equality and anti-discrimination are not only legal questions but fundamental challenges for society, therefore, 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 as well as intersectional discrimination.
_________________________________
11  OJ C 378, 24.12.2013, p. 1.
Amendment    10 Proposal for a regulation Recital 11 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(11a)  The Programme should support actions to prevent and combat discrimination, racism, xenophobia, anti-semitism, anti-gypsyism, afrophobia, anti-muslim hatred and other forms of intolerance such as disability, age, gender, gender expression, gender identity, sexual orientation as well as recognising the rights of all persons to be treated with dignity. 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 (including cyber-bullying), harassment and intolerant treatment.
Amendment    11 Proposal for a regulation Recital 11 b (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(11b)  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’ and in the Council Recommendation of 9 December 2013 on effective Roma integration measures in the Member States1a. Promoting tolerant and inclusive work places and recognising the rights of all to be treated with dignity within the workplace and society in general are ongoing goals which require more and stronger coordinated action, including by the allocation of sufficient funding.
	____________________
	1a  OJ C 378, 24.12.2013, p. 1.
Amendment    12 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. Persons with disabilities, which include 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 have become an integral part of the Union legal order. In this regard the Programme should pay special attention to awareness raising activities to the challenges people with disability face in participating fully in society and enjoying their rights as equal citizens.
Amendment    13 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 the mainstreaming and promotion of gender equality and non-discrimination objectives.
Amendment    14 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/EC15 and 2004/113/EC16 , and by Directives 2006/54/EC17 and 2010/41/EU18 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 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/EC15 and 2004/113/EC16, and by Directives 2006/54/EC17 and 2010/41/EU18 of the European Parliament and of the Council. The Commission adopted a recommendation on standards for equality bodies [C(2018) 3850 final], 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.
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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).	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).	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).	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).	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).
Amendment    15 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 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 local, regional and national level.
Amendment    16 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 done 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 both with 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    17 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 Council20 Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2988/9521 Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/9622 and Council Regulation (EU) 2017/193923 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 Council24 . 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, and the expected risk of non-compliance. This should include consideration of the use of lump sums, flat rates, unit costs, as well as financing not linked to costs as referred to in Article 125(1) of the Financial Regulation. In order to facilitate participation to the Programme, including by small organizations, assistance should be ensured and any unnecessary administrative burden eliminated. Where appropriate, due consideration should be given to the possibility of a two-stage evaluation procedure and to the option of cascading grants and multiannual operating grants. As for co-funding rates, they should take into account the type and size of organizations for whom the programme calls are intended. In accordance with the Financial Regulation, Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council20 Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2988/9521 Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/9622 and Council Regulation (EU) 2017/193923 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 Council24 . 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.
__________________	__________________
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 L248, 18.9.2013, 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 L248, 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, 23.12.95, 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, 23.12.95, 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 L292.15.11.96,, p.2).	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 L292.15.11.96,, 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 L283, 31.10.2017,, p.1).	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 L283, 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).	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).
Amendment    18 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 EU Treaties, including by supporting civil society organisations of all sizes, in order to preserve, nurture and sustain rights-based, equal, inclusive, open and democratic societies.
Amendment    19 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 promote people`s engagement and participation in the democratic life of the Union (Citizens' engagement and participation strand),
Amendment    20 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 for all by preventing and combating inequalities and any kind of discrimination on grounds of sex, racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation as well as discrimination on the grounds set out in Article 21(1) of the Charter and supporting comprehensive policies to promote gender equality, social inclusion and anti-discrimination and their mainstreaming as well policies to combat racism and all forms of intolerance both online and offline;
Amendment    21 Proposal for a regulation Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point a a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(aa)  promoting mutual understanding, dialogue and respect for diversity within Member States and the Union.
Amendment    22 Proposal for a regulation Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point b
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(b)  protecting and promoting the rights of the child, the rights of people with disabilities, Union citizenship rights and the right to the protection of personal data.	(b)  protecting and promoting the rights of the child, the rights of seniors, the rights of people with disabilities, Union citizenship rights, including social rights,and the right to the protection of personal data including data processing situations in the employment context or for social protection purposes as laid down in the GDPR Regulation1a.
	__________________
	1a Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 April 2016 on the protection of natural persons with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data, and repealing Directive 95/46/EC (General Data Protection Regulation) (OJ L 119, 4.5.2016, p. 1).
Amendment    23 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)  increasing citizens’ understanding of the Union, its shared values, history– with particular regard to the history of totalitarian regimes –, cultural heritage and diversity;
Amendment    24 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 exchange and cooperation between citizens of different national and cultural backgrounds; 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 and to foster solidarity;
Amendment    25 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, including with informative and educational actions, and combating all forms of violence, including domestic violence, against children, young people, women and seniors, as well as violence against other groups at risk, and particularly vulnerable persons;
Amendment    26 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, groups at risk, and particularly vulnerable persons of such violence.
Amendment    27 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.	Actions contributing to the achievement of a specific objective specified in Article 2 may receive funding under this Regulation. In particular the following activities shall be eligible for funding:
	(a)  awareness raising, creative actions, educational activities and dissemination of information to improve the use and 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 civic and democratic engagement based on knowledge and mutual understanding; and
	(c)  advocacy, creative, analytical and monitoring activities1a to improve the understanding of the situation in the Member States and at Union level in the areas covered by the Programme as well as to improve the implementation of Union law and policies;
	(d)  training relevant stakeholders to improve their awareness, ability to use and knowledge of the policies and rights in the fields covered;
	(e)  information and Communication Technology (ICT) tools development and maintenance accessible for all;
	(f)  strengthening citizen's awareness of European culture, values, history and remembrance as well as their sense of solidarity belonging to the Union;
	(g)  bringing together Europeans of different nationalities and cultures by giving them the opportunity to participate in twinning activities, including town-twinning activities;
	(h)  encouraging and facilitating active inclusive participation and public mobilization in the construction of a more democratic Union as well as use of and 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, apply and further develop Union law, policy goals and strategies as well as supporting civil society organisations of all sizes 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 networks.
	______________________
	1a 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.
(Points (a) to (k) are amended points of Annex I, paragraph 1)
Amendment    28 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 – in a form which is also accessible for people with disabilities – to multiple audiences, including the media and the public.
Amendment    29 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 30 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 activities1 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.
______________________
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.
Amendment    31 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. To that end, data will be collected as regards the following set of key indicators:
Amendment    32 Proposal for a regulation Annex II – paragraph 1 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	The Commission shall also publish the following output indicators yearly:
Amendment    33 Proposal for a regulation Annex II – paragraph 1 b (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	Geographical coverage of activities per strand
Amendment    34 Proposal for a regulation Annex II – paragraph 1 c (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	Number of applications and activities funded per list in Article 9(1) and per strand
Amendment    35 Proposal for a regulation Annex II – paragraph 1 d (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	The level of funding requested by applicants and granted per activity listed in Article 9(1) and per strand

PROCEDURE – COMMITTEE ASKED FOR OPINION

Title	Establishing the Rights and Values programme
References	COM(2018)0383 – C8-0234/2018 – 2018/0207(COD)
Committee responsible        Date announced in plenary	LIBE 14.6.2018
Opinion by        Date announced in plenary	EMPL 14.6.2018
Rapporteur        Date appointed	Jean Lambert 18.6.2018
Discussed in committee	9.10.2018
Date adopted	20.11.2018
Result of final vote	+: –: 0:	38 2 1
Members present for the final vote	Guillaume Balas, Brando Benifei, Mara Bizzotto, David Casa, Ole Christensen, Michael Detjen, Martina Dlabajová, Lampros Fountoulis, Marian Harkin, Czesław Hoc, Agnes Jongerius, Rina Ronja Kari, Ádám Kósa, Agnieszka Kozłowska-Rajewicz, Jean Lambert, Jérôme Lavrilleux, Patrick Le Hyaric, Jeroen Lenaers, Verónica Lope Fontagné, Thomas Mann, Anthea McIntyre, Miroslavs Mitrofanovs, Elisabeth Morin-Chartier, Emilian Pavel, Georgi Pirinski, Dennis Radtke, Terry Reintke, Robert Rochefort, Claude Rolin, Siôn Simon, Romana Tomc, Marita Ulvskog
Substitutes present for the final vote	Georges Bach, Rosa D’Amato, Tania González Peñas, Paloma López Bermejo, Edouard Martin, Alex Mayer, Sven Schulze, Helga Stevens, Flavio Zanonato

FINAL VOTE BY ROLL CALL IN COMMITTEE ASKED FOR OPINION

38	+
ALDE	Martina Dlabajová, Marian Harkin, Robert Rochefort
ECR	Czesław Hoc, Anthea McIntyre, Helga Stevens
GUE/NGL	Tania González Peñas, Rina Ronja Kari, Patrick Le Hyaric, Paloma López Bermejo
PPE	Georges Bach, David Casa, Ádám Kósa, Agnieszka Kozłowska-Rajewicz, Jérôme Lavrilleux, Jeroen Lenaers, Verónica Lope Fontagné, Thomas Mann, Elisabeth Morin-Chartier, Dennis Radtke, Claude Rolin, Sven Schulze, Romana Tomc
S&D	Guillaume Balas, Brando Benifei, Ole Christensen, Michael Detjen, Agnes Jongerius, Edouard Martin, Alex Mayer, Emilian Pavel, Georgi Pirinski, Siôn Simon, Marita Ulvskog, Flavio Zanonato
VERTS/ALE	Jean Lambert, Miroslavs Mitrofanovs, Terry Reintke

2	-
ENF	Mara Bizzotto
NI	Lampros Fountoulis

1	0
EFDD	Rosa D'Amato

Key to symbols:

+  :  in favour

-  :  against

0  :  abstention

OPINION of the Committee on Culture and Education (4.12.2018)

for the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs

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))

Rapporteur for the opinion (*): Sylvie Guillaume

(*)  Associated committee – Rule 54 of the Rules of Procedure

SHORT JUSTIFICATION

The future ‘Citizenship, Rights and Values’ programme should help to relaunch a conversation among Europeans and to foster reciprocal understanding at a time when the notion of belonging to a shared space has been called into question by a sharp rise in intolerance.

The rapporteur for the opinion appreciates that the Commission is pursuing synergy effects in response to budgetary constraints.

Nonetheless, she believes it is more necessary than ever to consolidate the ground occupied by the former Europe for Citizens programme with its evident added value in terms of promoting civic involvement, strengthening a shared sense of belonging and encouraging people to participate as citizens with a stake in democracy. That programme has proved its worth and, by contributing to a wider awareness of European issues, it could have a positive effect in stimulating people’s interest in the forthcoming European elections.

For these reasons, the rapporteur finds it regrettable that the strongly symbolic concept of citizenship has been dropped from the programme title, and she proposes that it be reinstated.

She also considers it essential to hold out for a budget commensurate with the programme’s aims, and she therefore proposes an increase in the budget for strand B – ‘Citizens’ engagement and participation’ – the field within her remit. The budget currently proposed falls far short of the level that Parliament had urged. Therefore, it is proposed that the ‘Citizens’ engagement’ strand be strengthened, with a budget of EUR 500 million – a figure equivalent to barely one euro per EU citizen. It is important to defend a European programme accessible to all those citizens who support a strong Europe as a counterweight to various kinds of nationalism, and one which reaffirms a spirit of solidarity.

Aware of the need to promote remembrance activities around the events that led to the creation of the European Union, and to understand the present better in order to pursue the common task of building the future, the rapporteur for the opinion proposes that remembrance-based activities highlighting the importance of the principles and values that underpin the EU should be developed.

Furthermore, given the limited funding earmarked for this programme, the rapporteur for the opinion considers that the Commission ought not to be allowed to spend any of it on a communication effort about the EU’s policy priorities, as the Commission communication services already have substantial budgets for such activity.

She welcomes the introduction of an instrument to support civil society organisations in the EU that promote fundamental values at a local level in order to sustain open, democratic and inclusive societies, while at the same time underscoring the need to defend one-off projects undertaken by ordinary people within their communities, which are vital if Europe is to be a lived reality. She stresses, in particular, that the programme should be made accessible to people with disabilities.

Given that opportunities for citizens’ activities within the Member States are often limited and that, despite their commitment, many applicants for grant aid are frustrated at not being selected, the rapporteur believes that the ‘Citizens’ engagement’ strand of the programme ought not to be opened to associate third countries.

The rapporteur for the opinion shares the Commission’s view that the system of national contact points, which have already proved their worth in the Europe for Citizens programme, should be extended so as to support project promoters more effectively through the steps they need to take, and she urges that this be mentioned in the regulation.

The rapporteur proposes, too, that the Commission should adopt the work programmes and multiannual priorities through delegated acts, and not through implemented acts as it has suggested in its proposal.

Overall, the rapporteur welcomes the approach that the Commission is proposing, particularly with the change in the legal basis enabling Parliament to play its role of co-legislator. She points out that this programme covers many civic projects which crucially need to be sustained today and encouraged in the future.

AMENDMENTS

The Committee on Culture and Education calls on the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs, as the committee responsible, to take into account the following amendments:

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 Europe for Citizens, Rights and Values programme
	(This amendment applies throughout the text. Adopting it will necessitate corresponding changes throughout.)
Amendment    2 Proposal for a regulation Citation 1
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 16(2), Article 19(2), Article 21(2), Article 24, Article 167, and Article 168 thereof,	Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 16(2), Article 19(2), Article 21(2), Article 24, Article 167, and Article 168 thereof and to Article 11 of the Treaty on European Union,
Amendment    3 Proposal for a regulation Citation 2 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	Having regard to the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union,
Amendment    4 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 the persons belonging to minorities. In particular, in accordance with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, human dignity is the foundation of all inalienable human rights. These principles and values are common to the Member States in a society in which 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    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 Council8 and the Europe for Citizens programme established by Council Regulation (EU) No 390/20149 , (hereafter 'the predecessor Programmes').	(2)  Those rights and values must continue to be promoted, 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 Europe for Citizens, Rights and Values and the Justice programmes should be created in the EU budget. At a time where European societies are confronted with many challenges, such as extremism, radicalism and divisions , and the rule of law is ever more clearly in retreat in certain countries, it is more important than ever to promote, strengthen and defend justice, rights and EU values, such as human rights, including the rights of the persons belonging to minorities, children and youth rights, pluralism, tolerance, respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, solidarity and the rule of law. The Europe for Citizens, 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 Council8 and the Europe for Citizens programme established by Council Regulation (EU) No 390/20149, (hereafter 'the predecessor Programmes').
__________________	__________________
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)	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)	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)
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 funding programmes will focus primarily on people and entities which contribute to the embodiment of our common principles values and rights and demonstrate the wealth of our diversity. The ultimate objective is to sustain rights-based, equal, fair, tolerant, inclusive, plural and democratic societies. The activities financed should aim at sustaining and strengthening an active civil society and encouraging democratic, civic, cultural and social participation based on our common values, history, memory, cultural heritage and roots. Article 11 of the Treaty of the European Union further specifies that the institutions shall maintain an open, transparent and regular dialogue with civil society and 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.
Amendment    7 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 Europe for Citizens, Rights and Values programme (the 'Programme') should allow synergies to be developed to tackle the challenges that are common to the promotion and protection of values, active citizenship and education for European citizenship 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 that are now incorporated in the new Programme. 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, with a special focus on the multilingual character of the Union and the need to include young people, underrepresented and disadvantaged groups, such as people with special needs, migrants, refugees and asylum seekers through tailor-made approaches.
Amendment    8 Proposal for a regulation Recital 4 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(4a)  Article 17 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union establishes a Dialogue between the EU and churches and organisations mentioned in it. It recognizes their specific contribution in fostering protection and promotion of fundamental human rights, in light of which they should be granted the same access as civil society organisations to the relevant funding opportunities provided by the programme.
Amendment    9 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 the 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 the shaping of 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    10 Proposal for a regulation Recital 5 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(5a)  Increasing plurality and global migration movements 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 to set 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    11 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    12 Proposal for a regulation Recital 6 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(6a)  The Programme has a crucial role to play in fostering the development of a shared sense of European identity and giving visibility to the opportunities brought about by belonging to the Union, as a countermeasure to 'Euroscepticism' and anti-European political forces that are calling into question the very existence of the European Project.
Amendment    13 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)  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, voting, accessing to public services, taking part in cultural exchanges and volunteering in another Member State. They should feel able to participate in the Union’s decision-making process and be aware that they have an impact on it and that they can place their trust in equal access to, 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 at all levels for the promotion, safeguarding and raising awareness of Union’s common values under Article 2 TEU with the aim of ensuring effective enjoyment of rights under Union law.
Amendment    14 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 these crimes in a bid to breathe fresh life into a pluralist and democratic joint European identity.
Amendment    15 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. Persons with disabilities are faced with barriers when it comes to, among other things, accessing the labour market, benefitting from an inclusive and quality education, avoiding poverty and social exclusion, enjoying access to culture, cultural initiatives and media, and using their political rights. Asa 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.
Amendment    16 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 Council14 ]. 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)  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 Council14 ]. The Programme should encourage and promote the exercise of their right to launch and join the European citizens’ initiatives by supporting, in its "equality and rights" strand, the financing of technical and organisational support to implement Regulation [(EU) No 211/2011],
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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).
Amendment    17 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/EC15 and 2004/113/EC16 , and by Directives 2006/54/EC17 and 2010/41/EU18 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 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/EC15 and 2004/113/EC16 , and by Directives 2006/54/EC17 and 2010/41/EU18 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.
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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).	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).	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).	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).	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).
Amendment    18 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 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 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 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.
Amendment    19 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 and their complementarity to Member States’ actions. Consistency, complementarity and transparent and clearly defined synergies should 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 the Creative Europe programme, the European Solidarity Corps, and Erasmus+ to realise the potential of cultural crossovers in the fields of culture, audio-visual, media, arts, formal, non-formal and informal 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, volunteering, vocational training, health, citizenship, justice, social inclusion, - especially migrants and most disadvantaged -, migration, security, research, innovation, technology, industry, cohesion, climate, tourism, sport, external relations, enlargement, international cooperation, trade and development.
Amendment    20 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 requires full transparency in the use of resources, sound financial management and prudent use of resources. In particular, rules concerning the possibility for local, regional, national or transnational civil society organisations to be funded through multiannual operating grants, cascading grants and flexible grant-making procedures.
Amendment    21 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 Council20 Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2988/9521 Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/9622 and Council Regulation (EU) 2017/193923 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 Council24. 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 a positive success target rate, especially for action grants and projects and to deliver results inline with the specific objectives of the actions, taking into account, in particular, the costs of controls, the administrative burden, the size and the 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 and unit costs, and of further parameters enabling persons with special needs to be accommodated more effectively, as well as 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 883/2013of the European Parliament and of the Council20 Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2988/9521 Council Regulation(Euratom, EC) No 2185/9622 and Council Regulation (EU) 2017/193923 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 Council24. 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.
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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 L248, 18.9.2013, 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 L248, 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, 23.12.95, 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, 23.12.95, 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 L292.15.11.96,, p.2).	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 L292.15.11.96,, 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 L283, 31.10.2017,, p.1).	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 L283, 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).	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).
Amendment    22 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.	deleted
Amendment    23 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 ensure the implementation of this Regulation, with a view to ensuring effective assessment of the Programme's 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 and multiannual priorities pursuant to Article 13 and 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.
Amendment    24 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 European citizenship and the rule of law, as well as the rights, principles and values enshrined in the EU Treaties, on the basis of which the Union was founded. This should be achieved notably by supporting key stakeholders such as associations of citizens, think tanks, research, cultural and academic institutions and civil society organisations at local, regional, national and transnational levels, in order to remind everyone of the importance of those values and principles, and thereby to sustain open, democratic and inclusive societies
Amendment    25 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’- and in particular young people’s - awareness of the importance of the EU 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    26 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 specific objective set out in point (a) of Article 2(2), the Programme shall pursue the following objectives:
Amendment    27 Proposal for a regulation Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point b
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(b)  protecting and promoting the rights of the child, the rights of people with disabilities, Union citizenship rights and the right to the protection of personal data.	(b)  protecting and promoting the rights of the child, the rights of people with disabilities, Union citizenship rights, including the right to launch a European Citizenship Initiative, and the right to the protection of personal data.
Amendment    28 Proposal for a regulation Article 4 – title
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Citizens engagement and participation strand	Active Citizenship strand
Amendment    29 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    30 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 not only to remember the events that preceded the establishment of the EU, 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    31 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    32 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    33 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 the Union action, thereby contributing to shaping Union’s political agenda ; 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    34 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 specific objective set out in point (a) of Article 2(2), the Programme shall pursue the following objectives:
Amendment    35 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 [908 705 000] at current prices.
Amendment    36 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 [500 000 000] or at least 40% of the financial envelope of the Programme referred to in paragraph 1 to achieve the specific objectives referred to in Article 2(2)(b); approximately 15% of the total budget for this objective shall be allocated to remembrance activities, 65% to democratic participation, 10% to promotional activities and 10% to administration (indicative breakdown);
	The Commission shall not depart from the allocated percentages of the financial envelope by more than 5 percentage points for each group of specific objectives. Should it prove necessary to exceed that limit, the Commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with Article 16 to modify each of the figures by more than 5 and up to 10 percentage points.
Amendment    37 Proposal for a regulation Article 6 – paragraph 3
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
3.  The amount referred to in paragraph 1 may be used for technical and administrative assistance for the implementation of the Programme, such as preparatory, monitoring, control, audit and evaluation activities including corporate information technology systems, studies, meetings of experts, communications on priorities and areas related to the general objectives of the programme.	3.  The amount referred to in paragraph 1 may be used for technical and administrative assistance for the implementation of the Programme, such as preparatory, monitoring, control, audit and evaluation activities, studies and meetings of experts, communications on priorities and areas related to the general objectives of the programme.
Amendment    38 Proposal for a regulation Article 6 – paragraph 3 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	3a.  The Commission shall allocate at least 40% of the resources referred to in paragraph 1 to the support of civil society organisations.
Amendment    39 Proposal for a regulation Article 8 – paragraph 3 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	3a.  The programme shall include access to information about the programme tailored to people with disabilities with a view to enabling them to exercise their rights to the full and to participate, in their own right, in the societies in which they live.
Amendment    40 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    41 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.
Amendment    42 Proposal for a regulation Article 13 – title
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Work programme	Work programme and multiannual priorities
Amendment    43 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 programmes and, as required, the multiannual priorities on which the work programmes are based. In drawing up its work programmes, the Commission shall consult organisations representing civil society and organisations representing local and regional authorities.
Amendment    44 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 conceived and collected efficiently, effectively, and in a timely manner, that the allocation of funds for specific projects is reflected accurately and that the synergies created between funding programmes are properly evidenced. Participation of the entities involved in the Programme shall be ensured to that end. Proportionate reporting and least burdensome requirements shall be imposed on recipients of Union funds and Member States.
Amendment    45 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 6, 13 and 14 shall be conferred on the Commission until 31 December 2027.
Amendment    46 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 6, 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    47 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 6, 13 and 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    48 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    49 Proposal for a regulation Article 18 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	Article 18 a
	National Contact Points
	Each Member State shall set up an independent and qualified national Contact Point with staff tasked with providing the potential beneficiaries of the Programme (citizens, organisations and regional authorities), with guidance, practical information and assistance regarding all aspects of the Programme, including in relation to the application procedure and proposal writing, distribution of documentation, partner search, training and other formalities, thereby ensuring that the Programme is implemented in a uniform way. The National Contact Points shall have no responsibility for project evaluation, which shall be carried out by the Commission.
Amendment    50 Proposal for a regulation Article 19 – paragraph 3
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
3.  The committee may meet in specific configurations to deal with the individual strands of the Programme.	3.  The committee may meet in specific configurations to deal with the individual strands of the Programme. Where appropriate, in accordance with its rules of procedure, external experts, including representatives of the social partners, civil society organisations and representatives of beneficiaries shall be regularly invited to participate in its meetings as observers.
Amendment    51 Proposal for a regulation Annex I – paragraph 1 – introductory part
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
The specific objectives of the Programme referred to in Article 2(2) will be pursued in particular through support to the following activities:	The specific objectives of the Programme referred to in Article 2(2) will be pursued in particular through support to the following general activities:
Amendment    52 Proposal for a regulation Annex I – paragraph 1 – point a
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(a)  awareness raising, dissemination of information to improve the knowledge of the policies and rights in the areas covered by the Programme;	(a)  raising awareness among citizens, particularly young people and people belonging to disadvantaged and underrepresented groups of society, of the common values, rights and principles on which the Union is founded, of their rights and responsibilities as European citizens, as well as of the ways to protect and exercise these rights, no matter where they live; promoting projects designed to improve the knowledge of the policies and rights in the areas covered by the Programme objectives; encouraging formal and informal education for European citizenship.
Amendment    53 Proposal for a regulation Annex I – paragraph 1 – point b
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(b)  mutual learning through exchange of good practices among stakeholders to improve knowledge and mutual understanding and civic and democratic engagement;	(b)  mutual learning through exchange and highlighting of good practices among stakeholders (including associations, civil society organisations, local government bodies and citizens) with a view to improve knowledge, mutual understanding, civic and democratic engagement and to further valorise the results of the supported activities;
Amendment    54 Proposal for a regulation Annex I – paragraph 1 – point c
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(c)  analytical and monitoring activities1 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 ;	deleted
__________________
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.
Amendment    55 Proposal for a regulation Annex I – paragraph 1 – point d a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(da)  supporting initiatives and measures to promote and protect freedom and pluralism of the media, and to build capacity for the new challenges such as new media technologies and countering hate speech;
Amendment    56 Proposal for a regulation Annex I – paragraph 1 – point e
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(e)  information and Communication Technology (ICT) tools development and maintenance;	deleted
Amendment    57 Proposal for a regulation Annex I – paragraph 1 – point e a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(ea)  promoting public awareness and understanding of the risks, rules, safeguards and rights in relation to the protection of personal data, privacy, and digital security, as well as addressing fake news and targeted disinformation through awareness raising, trainings, studies and monitoring activities, particularly focusing on young people;
Amendment    58 Proposal for a regulation Annex I – paragraph 1 – point f
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(f)  strengthening citizen's awareness of European culture, history and remembrance as well as their sense of belonging to the Union;	(f)  strengthening citizen's - especially of young people- awareness, of European culture, cultural heritage history and remembrance, but also of the future challenges of the EU and reinforcing their sense of belonging to the Union, particularly through:
	(i)   initiatives to reflect on the causes of totalitarian regimes in Europe’s modern history and to commemorate the victims of their crimes;
	(ii)   activities concerning other defining moments and reference points in recent European history;
Amendment    59 Proposal for a regulation Annex I – paragraph 1 – point g
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(g)  bringing together Europeans of different nationalities and cultures by giving them the opportunity to participate in town-twinning activities;	(g)  bringing together citizens of different nationalities and cultures by giving them the opportunity to participate in meetings, town-twinning activities, small scale and civil society projects, thus creating the conditions for a stronger bottom-up approach, aimed at shaping the Union’s political agenda;
Amendment    60 Proposal for a regulation Annex I – paragraph 1 – point h
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(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	(h)  encouraging and facilitating active and inclusive participation, with particular attention to marginalised groups of society, in the construction of a more democratic Union, by promoting, inter alia, the use of e-democracy tools and the European Citizens' Initiative; raising awareness of promoting and defending rights and values through support to civil society organisations;
Amendment    61 Proposal for a regulation Annex I – paragraph 1 – point j
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(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;	(j)  supporting civil society organisations active in the areas covered by the Programme;
Amendment    62 Proposal for a regulation Annex I – paragraph 1 – point j a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(ja)  strengthening the capacity and independence of human rights defenders and civil society organisations monitoring the situation of the rule of law and supporting actions on the local, regional and national levels;
Amendment    63 Proposal for a regulation Annex I – paragraph 1 – point j b (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(jb)  promote and develop dialogue with civil society organisations on the development, implementation and monitoring of Union law, policy goals and strategies in all areas covered by the programme;
Amendment    64 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 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 (ethnicity, disability, gender identity…). To that end, data will be collected as regards the following set of key indicators:
Amendment    65 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    66 Proposal for a regulation Annex II – table – row 6 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	Geographical distribution of projects

ANNEX: LIST OF ENTITIES OR PERSONSFROM WHOM THE RAPPORTEUR HAS RECEIVED INPUT

The following list is drawn up on a purely voluntary basis under the exclusive responsibility of the rapporteur. The rapporteur has received input from the following entities or persons in the preparation of the opinion, until the adoption thereof in committee:

Entity and/or person
Civil Society Europe
European Youth Forum
Council of European Municipalities and Regions
Stefan Batory Foundation
Association Française du Conseil des Communes et Régions de France
Jeunes Fédéralistes européens
Culture Action Europe

PROCEDURE – COMMITTEE ASKED FOR OPINION

Title	Establishing the Rights and Values programme
References	COM(2018)0383 – C8-0234/2018 – 2018/0207(COD)
Committee responsible        Date announced in plenary	LIBE 14.6.2018
Opinion by        Date announced in plenary	CULT 14.6.2018
Associated committees - date announced in plenary	5.7.2018
Rapporteur        Date appointed	Sylvie Guillaume 1.6.2018
Discussed in committee	10.10.2018
Date adopted	3.12.2018
Result of final vote	+: –: 0:	16 0 1
Members present for the final vote	Silvia Costa, Mircea Diaconu, Jill Evans, Giorgos Grammatikakis, Petra Kammerevert, Stefano Maullu, Luigi Morgano, Bogdan Andrzej Zdrojewski, Milan Zver
Substitutes present for the final vote	Norbert Erdős, Santiago Fisas Ayxelà, Sylvie Guillaume, Dietmar Köster, Emma McClarkin, Hermann Winkler
Substitutes under Rule 200(2) present for the final vote	Heinz K. Becker, Jarosław Wałęsa

FINAL VOTE BY ROLL CALL IN COMMITTEE ASKED FOR OPINION

16	+
ALDE	Mircea Diaconu
PPE	Heinz K. Becker, Norbert Erdős, Santiago Fisas Ayxelà, Stefano Maullu, Jarosław Wałęsa, Hermann Winkler, Bogdan Andrzej Zdrojewski, Milan Zver
S&D	Silvia Costa, Giorgos Grammatikakis, Sylvie Guillaume, Petra Kammerevert, Dietmar Köster, Luigi Morgano
VERTS/ALE	Jill Evans

0	-

1	0
ECR	Emma McClarkin

Key to symbols:

+  :  in favour

-  :  against

0  :  abstention

OPINION of the Committee on Legal Affairs (21.11.2018)

for the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs

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))

Rapporteur for opinion: Sylvia‑Yvonne Kaufmann

AMENDMENTS

The Committee on Legal Affairs calls on the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs, as the committee responsible, to take into account the following amendments:

Amendment    1 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 Council8 and the Europe for Citizens programme established by Council Regulation (EU) No 390/2014 , (hereafter 'the predecessor Programmes').	(2)  Those rights and values must continue to be efficiently cultivated, protected, promoted and enforced and shared among the citizens and peoples and be at the heart of the EU project, in order to uphold those rights and values in the Member States and avoid the detrimental effects of their possible deterioration 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, which will support open, democratic, pluralist and inclusive societies. 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 Council8 and the Europe for Citizens programme established by Council Regulation (EU) No 390/2014 , (hereafter 'the predecessor Programmes').
_________________	_________________
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)	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)
Amendment    2 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 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 a common values and rights-based, open, equal, inclusive and democratic society by funding activities that promote a vibrant and empowered civil society. Such activities include encouraging people's democratic, civic and social participation and fostering peace and the rich diversity of European society, based on our common values, history and memory. Article 11 of the Treaty of the European Union requires that the institutions maintain an open, transparent and regular dialogue with civil society and give, by appropriate means, citizens and representative associations the opportunity to make known and publicly exchange their views in all areas of Union action. The Commission should thus maintain a regular dialogue with the beneficiaries of the Programme, as well as with other relevant stakeholders.
Amendment    3 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 and increase their confidence in it, 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, social inclusion 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.
Amendment    4 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 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 based on diversity, solidarity and sense of belonging together and having a shared cultural heritage.
Amendment    5 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)  Citizens should also be more aware of their rights and benefits 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 strengthened at all levels through the promotion, safeguarding and awareness raising of EU common values under Article 2 TEU so as to contribute to the effective enjoyment of rights under Union law.
Amendment    6 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 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 and young people 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.
Amendment    7 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 Council12 and Directive (EU) 2016/680 of the European Parliament and of the Council13 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 Council12 and Directive (EU) 2016/680 of the European Parliament and of the Council13 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, 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.
_________________	_________________
12 OJ L 119, 4.5.2016, p. 1-88.	12 OJ L 119, 4.5.2016, p. 1-88.
13 OJ L 119, 4.5.2016, p. 89-131.	13 OJ L 119, 4.5.2016, p. 89-131.
Amendment    8 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 Council14. 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 EU 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 Council14. 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.
_________________	_________________
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).
Amendment    9 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 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 19 April 2018, sufficient 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 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 local, regional and national level.
Amendment    10 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 of those directed at promoting and safeguarding our common values as enshrined in Article 2 TEU, and their complementarity to Member States’ actions, where actions at Member State level are present. 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. This synergy would also safeguard and promote a pluralist and independent free media, ensure freedom of speech and prevent dissemination of misinformation. 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, development and climate or environmental protection.
Amendment    11 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, sound financial management and prudent use of resources. In particular, rules concerning the possibility for civil society organisations to be funded through multiannual operating grants and cascading grants should be operationalised as part of the implementation of this programme. The rules must keep the administrative burden on candidates as far as possible to a minimum. Where possible, electronic applications should be accepted. Candidates and beneficiaries for funding in each strand should have access to a national contact point, which provides them with support in every stage of the application procedure. Due consideration should be given to fast and flexible grant-making procedures, such as a two-stage evaluation procedure, in order to reduce the costs of preparing proposals which are unsuccessful and to and improve the efficiency of the programme..
Amendment    12 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    13 Proposal for a regulation Article 2
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Article 2	Article 2
Programme objectives	Programme objectives
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 EU 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, in order to sustain open, rights-based, democratic, equal and inclusive societies.
2.  Within the general objective set out in paragraph 1, the programme has the following specific objectives which correspond to strands:	2.  Within the general objective set out in paragraph 1, the programme has the following specific objectives which correspond to strands:
(a)  to promote equality and rights (Equality and rights strand),	(a)  to promote equality and rights (Equality and rights strand),
(b)  to promote citizens engagement and participation in the democratic life of the Union (Citizens' engagement and participation strand),	(b)  to promote citizens engagement and participation in the democratic life of the Union (Europe for Citizens’ strand),
(c)  to fight violence (Daphne strand).	(c)  to combat all forms of violence (Daphne strand).
Amendment    14 Proposal for a regulation Article 3
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Article 3	Article 3
Equality and rights strand	Equality and rights strand
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:
(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)  preventing and combating inequalities and discrimination on grounds of sex, racial, social, cultural or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age, language 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, while also respecting the constitutional provisions of the Member States;;
(b)  protecting and promoting the rights of the child, the rights of people with disabilities, Union citizenship rights and the right to the protection of personal data.	(b)  protecting and promoting the rights of the child, the rights of people with disabilities, Union citizenship rights and the right to the protection of personal data.
Amendment    15 Proposal for a regulation Article 4
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Article 4	Article 4
Citizens engagement and participation strand	‘Europe for Citizens’ strand
Within the specific objective set out in point (b) 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 (b) of Article 2(2), the Programme shall focus on:
(a)  increasing citizens’ understanding of the Union, its history, cultural heritage and diversity;	(a)  increasing citizens’ understanding of the Union, its history, cultural heritage and diversity;
(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 exchange and cooperation between citizens of different countries; promoting citizens’ civic and democratic participation by enabling citizens and representative associations to make known and publicly exchange their views in all areas of Union action, so as to increase the understanding of a pluralistic and participatory democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights;
Amendment    16 Proposal for a regulation Article 5
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Article 5	Article 5
Daphne strand	Daphne strand
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:
(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, including with educational actions, and combating all forms of violence against children, young people and women, as well as violence against other groups at risk;
(b)  supporting and protecting victims of such violence.	(b)  supporting and protecting victims of such violence and ensuring an EU-wide equal level of protection, including by facilitating access to justice, access to victim support services and access to police reporting for all victims of such violence.
Amendment    17 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, through action grants and multiannual operating grants, in any of the forms laid down in the Financial Regulation, including the use of lump sums, unit costs, flat rates and cascading grants.
Amendment    18 Proposal for a regulation Article 9
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Article 9	Article 9
Type of actions	Type of actions
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.	Actions contributing to the achievement of the general objective referred to in Article 2(1) or to the achievement of any of the specific objectives referred to in Article 2(2) may receive funding under this Regulation. In particular, activities listed in Annex I shall be eligible for funding.
Amendment    19 Proposal for a regulation Article 9 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	Article 9a
	Activities eligible for funding
	The general and specific objectives of the Programme set out in Article 2 shall be carried out in particular, but not exclusively, by supporting the following activities as carried out by one or more eligible entities:
	(a) awareness raising, public education, promotion and dissemination of information to improve the knowledge of the policies, principles and rights within the areas 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 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, researches, 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 and strengthening relevant stakeholders’ capability to advocate for the policies and rights in the fields covered;
	(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, as well as addressing fake news and targeted misinformation through awareness raising, trainings, studies and monitoring activities;
	(f) bringing together Europeans of different nationalities and cultures by giving them the opportunity to participate in town-twinning activities and projects;
	(g) encouraging and facilitating active and inclusive participation in the construction of a more democratic Union as well as raising awareness and promoting and defending rights and values through support to civil society organisations;
	(h) 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;
	(i) supporting 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) 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 desks;
	(k) 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;
	(l) 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;
	(m) supporting initiatives and measures to promote and protect freedom and pluralism of the media and to build capacity for the new challenges such as new media and countering hate speech;
	(n) support and build capacity for civil society organisations active in promoting and monitoring integrity and corruption, transparency and accountability of public authorities;
	(o) supporting civil society organisations active in the area of protection and promotion of fundamental rights, including support for actions to raise awareness of fundamental rights and contribute to human rights education.
Amendment    20 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    21 Proposal for a regulation Article 14
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Article 14	Article 14
Monitoring and reporting	Monitoring and reporting
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 are set out in Annex II. The data collected for monitoring and reporting shall, where applicable, be disaggregated by gender, age, educational background and other relevant factors.
2.  To ensure effective assessment of progress of the Programme towards the achievement of its objectives, the Commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts, in accordance with Article 16, to develop the provisions for a monitoring and evaluation framework, including through amendments to Annex II to review and complement the indicators where necessary.	2.  To ensure effective assessment of progress of the Programme towards the achievement of its objectives, the Commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts, in accordance with Article 16, to develop the provisions for a monitoring and evaluation framework, including through amendments to Annex II to review and complement the indicators where necessary.
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 reporting requirements shall be imposed on recipients of Union funds and Member States. The Commission shall make available user-friendly formats and provide orientation and support, in particular to applicants and beneficiaries who may not have the adequate resources and staff to meet reporting requirements.
Amendment    22 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 easy accessible by publishing it on its website.
Amendment    23 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 on Better Law-Making of 13 April 2016. The Commission shall also ensure early cooperation and exchange of views with the European Parliament and the Council, namely by sharing with the latter all documents at the same time as Member States experts, including the draft delegated acts, and by providing systematic access to European Parliament and Council experts to the meetings of Commission expert groups. To that end, the European Parliament and the Council shall receive the planning for the following months and invitations for all experts meetings.
Amendment    24 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, notwithstanding the possibility for EU citizens and other stakeholders to express their opinion on the draft text of the delegated act concerned during a period of four weeks. The European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of Regions may be consulted on the draft text.
Amendment    25 Proposal for a regulation Article 18
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Article 18	Article 18
Information, communication and publicity	Information, communication and publicity
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 to multiple audiences, including the media and the public.
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, at local, regional, national and European level, 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.
	2a.  Each Member State shall set up an independent National Contact Point with the purpose of providing the stakeholders and beneficiaries of the Programme with guidance, practical information and assistance regarding all aspects of the Programme and its application procedure.
Amendment    26 Proposal for a regulation Annex I
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Annex I	Annex I
Activities of the Programme	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:	The general objective referred to in Article 2(1) and the specific objectives 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;	(a)  awareness raising, public education and 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;	(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 activities1 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;	(c)  analytical and monitoring, reporting and advocacy activities1 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;	(d)  training relevant stakeholders to improve their knowledge of the policies and rights in the fields covered, as well as strengthening their capacity to advocate for those policies and rights;
(e)  information and Communication Technology (ICT) tools development and maintenance;	(e)  information and Communication Technology (ICT) tools development and maintenance;
	(e a)  promoting public awareness and understanding of the risks, rules, safeguards and rights in relation to the protection of personal data, privacy, and digital security, as well as addressing fake news and targeted misinformation through awareness raising, trainings, studies and monitoring activities;
(f)  strengthening citizen's awareness of European culture, history and remembrance as well as their sense of belonging to the Union;	(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;	(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	(h)  encouraging and facilitating active and inclusive participation in the construction of a more democratic Union as well as awareness of rights and values through support to civil society organisations, including those at local, regional, national and transnational levels monitoring the situation of the rule of law and respect of fundamental rights in a Member State;
	(ha)  new strengthening citizens' awareness of their rights and duties deriving from the European citizenship, such as the right to travel, work, study, live in another Member State, through information campaigns;
	(hb)  new specialised training for people working in the public sector of one Member State regarding the rights and obligations of the citizens of other Member States, who live, work, study or travel in the former, as well as training regarding the measures to guarantee the respect for those rights;
(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;	(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.	(j)  developing the capacity of European networks to promote and further develop Union law, policy goals and strategies.
(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.	(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.
	(ka)  strengthening the capacity and independence of civil society organisations and human rights defenders at local, regional, national and transnational levels monitoring the situation of the rule of law and respect of fundamental rights in a Member State;
	(kb)  new setting up whistle-blower protection, including measures to establish safe channels for reporting within organisations and to public authorities or other relevant bodies;
	(kc)  new promoting and supporting freedom and pluralism of the media and building capacity for new challenges such as new media and countering hate speech;
	(kd)  building capacity for public authorities to improve their transparency and accountability while strengthening civil society organisations active in promoting and monitoring the transparency and accountability of those public authorities;
_________________	_________________
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.	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.

PROCEDURE – COMMITTEE ASKED FOR OPINION

Title	Establishing the Rights and Values programme
References	COM(2018)0383 – C8-0234/2018 – 2018/0207(COD)
Committee responsible        Date announced in plenary	LIBE 14.6.2018
Opinion by        Date announced in plenary	JURI 14.6.2018
Rapporteur        Date appointed	Sylvia-Yvonne Kaufmann 9.7.2018
Date adopted	20.11.2018
Result of final vote	+: –: 0:	19 2 3
Members present for the final vote	Max Andersson, Joëlle Bergeron, Jean-Marie Cavada, Kostas Chrysogonos, Mady Delvaux, Laura Ferrara, Lidia Joanna Geringer de Oedenberg, Sajjad Karim, Sylvia-Yvonne Kaufmann, Gilles Lebreton, António Marinho e Pinto, Emil Radev, Julia Reda, Evelyn Regner, Pavel Svoboda, József Szájer, Axel Voss, Francis Zammit Dimech, Tadeusz Zwiefka
Substitutes present for the final vote	Geoffroy Didier, Pascal Durand, Jytte Guteland, Virginie Rozière, Kosma Złotowski

FINAL VOTE BY ROLL CALL IN COMMITTEE ASKED FOR OPINION

19	+
ALDE	Jean-Marie Cavada, António Marinho e Pinto
EFDD	Laura Ferrara
GUE/NGL	Kostas Chrysogonos
PPE	Geoffroy Didier, Emil Radev, Pavel Svoboda, Axel Voss, Francis Zammit Dimech, Tadeusz Zwiefka
S&D	Mady Delvaux, Lidia Joanna Geringer de Oedenberg, Jytte Guteland, Sylvia-Yvonne Kaufmann, Evelyn Regner, Virginie Rozière
VERTS/ALE	Max Andersson, Pascal Durand, Julia Reda

2	-
ENF	Gilles Lebreton
PPE	József Szájer

3	0
ECR	Sajjad Karim, Kosma Złotowski
EFDD	Joëlle Bergeron

Key to symbols:

+  :  in favour

-  :  against

0  :  abstention

OPINION of the Committee on Constitutional Affairs (21.11.2018)

for the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs

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))

Rapporteur for opinion: Josep‑Maria Terricabras

SHORT JUSTIFICATION

Your rapporteur supports the aim of the new funding programme ‘Rights and Values’ to protect and promote rights and values as enshrined in the EU Treaties and in the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights, including by supporting civil society organisations, in order to sustain open, democratic and inclusive societies. To this end, the Commission proposes that the two existing programmes ‘Rights, Equality and Citizenship’ and ‘Europe for Citizens’ be merged and replaced by the new programme and that this new programme, together with the Justice programme, will be part of a new Justice, Rights and Values Fund of the EU budget. Your rapporteur considers, however, that the level of ambition of the Commission proposal should have been higher. In particular, he proposes the addition of a fourth strand focusing on actions promoting democracy, fundamental rights and the rule of law (the Union values strand). He also proposes a conditionality mechanism whereby, in case of indirect management of resources and if a government entity is the recipient, where the Commission has reasonable grounds to believe that a generalised deficiency as regards the values enshrined in Article 2 TEU in the Member State concerned affects or risks affecting the protection of the financial interests of the Union, the Commission may resort to direct management. He furthermore proposes that the work programmes carrying out the new ‘Rights and Values’ programme in accordance with Article 110 of the Financial Regulation be adopted by means of delegated acts so as to allow better scrutiny on the part of Parliament. Finally, he wonders why some distinctive elements of the existing programmes, such as the fight against xenophobia or the promotion of volunteering at EU level, have been left out of the current proposal. He therefore suggests amendments which aim at reinstating those elements and, in general, at improving the proposal with a view to making it more effective in creating an authentic European culture of rights and values.

AMENDMENTS

The Committee on Constitutional Affairs calls on the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs, as the committee responsible, to take into account the following amendments:

Amendment    1 Proposal for a regulation Recital 1 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(1a)  The rule of law, as enshrined in Article 2 TEU, is the backbone of European democracy and is one of the fundamental values of the European Union stemming from the common constitutional traditions of all Member States. Full respect and promotion of the rule of law and democracy is the basic condition for building citizens' trust in the Union. Respect for the rule of law within the Union is also a prerequisite for the protection of fundamental rights, as well as for upholding all rights and obligations deriving from the Treaties.
Amendment    2 Proposal for a regulation Recital 1 b (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(1b)  The way in which the rule of law is implemented in the Member States plays a key role in ensuring mutual trust among Member States and in their legal systems. Unfortunately, in certain Member States, infringements of the values and principles enshrined in the Treaties are being compounded by serious breaches of agreements adopted by the Union institutions and fresh obstacles in the full implementation of Union law. Actions promoting respect for fundamental rights, democracy and the rule of law at local, regional, national and transnational level should therefore be supported by the Union.
Amendment    3 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 Council8 and the Europe for Citizens programme established by Council Regulation (EU) No 390/20149 , (hereafter 'the predecessor Programmes').	(2)  Those rights and values must continue to be cultivated, protected and promoted 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, excessive populism 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. It is also crucial to create an environment enabling peaceful democratic dialogue between representatives of different views. 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 Council8 and the Europe for Citizens programme established by Council Regulation (EU) No 390/20149 , (hereafter 'the predecessor Programmes'), and it will be adjusted to address new challenges to the European values.
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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)	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)	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)
Amendment    4 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, 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, self-reliant and empowered civil society, including advocacy for the promotion and protection of our common values, and that fosters peace, people's democratic, civic and social participation and cultivates the rich diversity of European society, based on our common values, history and memory. Article 11 of the Treaty of the European Union requires that the institutions shall maintain an open, transparent and regular dialogue with civil society and 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. The Commission should maintain a regular dialogue with the beneficiaries of the Rights and Values Programme as well as other relevant stakeholders by setting up a Civil Dialogue Group.
Amendment    5 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 Rights and Values programme (the 'Programme') should address the most important challenges to the promotion and protection of values, taking into account that the challenges may vary across the Union. To ensure concrete impact, the Programme should build on the lessons of the predecessor Programmes. It should also take advantage of synergies with other policies and programmes of the Union and of other actors. This should increase their effectiveness and efficiency as well as 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.
Amendment    6 Proposal for a regulation Recital 4 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(4a)  The rule of law, as enshrined in Article 2 TEU, is the backbone of European democracy and is one of the fundamental values of the European Union stemming from the common constitutional traditions of all Member States. Full respect and promotion of the rule of law and democracy is the basic condition for building citizens' trust in the Union. Respect for the rule of law within the Union is also a prerequisite for the protection of fundamental rights, as well as for upholding all rights and obligations deriving from the Treaties. The way in which the rule of law is implemented in the Member States plays a key role in ensuring mutual trust among Member States and their legal systems. Actions promoting respect for fundamental rights, democracy and the rule of law at local, regional, national and transnational level should therefore be supported by the Union.
Amendment    7 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, 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, social inclusion 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.
Amendment    8 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 reflection on Europe’s historical memory are important to make citizens aware of the common history and core values, 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 based on diversity, solidarity and sense of belonging together.
Amendment    9 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 Community. Free access to information, evaluation of media framework conditions and the responsible and safe use of information and communication networks are directly linked to free 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    10 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 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 19 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 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 national level.
Amendment    11 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)  With respect to the implementation of the specific objectives of promoting equality and rights, citizens’ engagement and participation in the democratic life of the Union, and combating violence against groups at risk, 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    12 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 at local, regional and national level, directed at promoting and safeguarding the values enshrined in Article 2 of the Treaty onEuropean Union. The Commission is to 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    13 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. It is necessary to ensure that the Programme’s grant-making procedures and requirement user-friendly for potential beneficiaries, including for grassroots local civil society organisations, and that they ensure full transparency on the use of resources, sound financial management and prudent use of resources. Rules concerning the possibility for local, regional, national and transnational civil society organisations to be funded through multiannual operating grants, cascading grants, 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    14 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 Council20 Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2988/9521 Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/9622 and Council Regulation (EU) 2017/193923 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 Council24 . 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 for Commission and beneficiary, capacity of potential beneficiary and the expected risk of non-compliance. This should include consideration of the use of lump sums, flat rates, unit costs, financial support for third parties, as well as financing not linked to costs as referred to in Article 125(1) of the Financial Regulation. Co-funding criteria should be accepted in kind, including in form of voluntary work, and could 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 Council20 Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2988/9521 Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/9622 and Council Regulation (EU) 2017/193923 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 Council24 . 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.
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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 L248, 18.9.2013, 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 L248, 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, 23.12.95, 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, 23.12.95, 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 L292.15.11.96,, p.2).	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 L292.15.11.96,, 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 L283, 31.10.2017,, p.1).	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 L283, 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).	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).
Amendment    15 Proposal for a regulation Recital 24 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(24a)  In order to increase accessibility and provide guidance and practical information in relation to the Programme, Contact Points in Member States should be set up to provide assistance to both beneficiaries and applicants.
Amendment    16 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 equality and rights, citizens’ engagement and participation in the democratic life of the Union, and combating violence against groups at risk, 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    17 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 carry out the Programme and ensure 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 as indicated in 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.
(see amendments to Recital 31 and Articles 13, 16 and 19)
Justification
The work programmes should be adopted by means of delegated acts and this recital needs to be adapted accordingly. It should also be aligned with the wording of the delegation of powers referred to in Article 16.
Amendment    18 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 .	deleted
(see amendments to Recital 30 and Articles 13, 16 and 19)
Justification
This recital needs to be deleted since the proposal should not include any reference to implementing acts.
Amendment    19 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    20 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 EU Treaties, in particular by supporting civil society organisations at local, national and transnational level, in order to sustain open, rights-based, democratic, equal and inclusive societies.
Amendment    21 Proposal for a regulation Article 2 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	2a.  to promote and safeguard fundamental rights and values, democracy and the rule of law at local, regional, national and transnational level (Union values strand);
Amendment    22 Proposal for a regulation Article 2 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	Article 2a
	Union values strand
	Within the specific objectives set out in point (-a) of Article 2(2), the Programme shall focus on:
	(a)  protecting and promoting:
	(i)  democracy and the rule of law, including ensuring the independence of the judiciary;
	(ii)  availability and effectiveness of judicial protection by impartial courts, including protection of fundamental rights; timely and correct implementation of judgments; effectiveness of investigation, prosecution or sanctioning of breaches of law;
	(ii)  transparency and non-arbitrariness of decisions by public authorities, including by law enforcement bodies;
	(b)  providing support for independent human rights defenders and civil society organisations undertaking the monitoring of compliance with the rule of law;
	(c)  providing support for whistleblower defence and initiatives that promote transparency, accountability, integrity and absence of corruption and conflicts of interest in public authorities;
	(d)  protecting and promoting fundamental rights, including strengthening freedom of expression, peaceful assembly or association, media freedom and pluralism of the media, including investigative journalism, academic freedom, freedom of religion or belief and the right to privacy and family life;
	(e)  supporting, empowering and building the capacity of independent civil society organisations active in the fields referred to in points (a) to (d) of this article.
(see amendments to Recital 4 a (new), Articles 2(2)(-a)(new) and 6 and Annex I)
Justification
The new Programme should include a specific objective relating to the promotion of democracy, fundamental rights and the rule of law (the Union values strand).
Amendment    23 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    24 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)  preventing and combating inequalities and discrimination on grounds of sex, gender, racial, social, cultural 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, xenophobia, homophobia and all other forms of intolerance;
Justification
This amendment reinstates elements of the Rights, Equality and Citizenship programme.
Amendment    25 Proposal for a regulation Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point a a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(aa)  promoting equality as a universal fundamental right and a core value of the Union;
Amendment    26 Proposal for a regulation Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point b
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(b)  protecting and promoting the rights of the child, the rights of people with disabilities, Union citizenship rights and the right to the protection of personal data.	(b)  protecting and promoting the rights of the child, the rights of people with disabilities, Union citizenship rights and the right to the protection of privacy and personal data; raising awareness of such rights.
Justification
This amendment reinstates elements of the Rights, Equality and Citizenship programme.
Amendment    27 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 general objective set out in Article 2(1) and within the specific objective set out in point (b) of Article 2(2), the Programme shall focus on:
Amendment    28 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)  increasing citizens’ understanding of the Union, and its integration, history, , institutions, values, aim, and cultural heritage, which make up European identity in its diversity;
Justification
This amendment reinstates elements of the Europe for Citizens programme.
Amendment    29 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 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, so as to increase the understanding of a pluralistic and participatory democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights and values;
Amendment    30 Proposal for a regulation Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point b a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(b a) promoting citizens’ civic and democratic participation at Union level allowing citizens and representative associations to make known and publicly exchange their views in all areas of Union action and debate the future of European integration;
(see amendment to Article 4(1)(b))
Amendment    31 Proposal for a regulation Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point b b (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(b b) promoting opportunities for societal, intercultural and inter-religious engagement and volunteering at Union level;
Justification
This amendment reinstates elements of the Europe for Citizens programme.
Amendment    32 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 in particular against children, young people and women, as well as violence against all other groups at risk;
Amendment    33 Proposal for a regulation Article 6
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Article 6	Article 6
Budget	Budget
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 [1 834 000 000] in current prices.
2.  Within the amount referred to in paragraph 1 the following indicative amount shall be allocated to the following objective:	2.  Within the amount referred to in paragraph 1 the following indicative amount shall be allocated to the following objective:
	(-a)  EUR [850 000 000] for the specific objectives referred to in point (-a) of article 2(2);
(a)  EUR [408.705.000] for the specific objectives referred to in article 2(2)(a) and 2(2)(c);	(a)  EUR [484.000.000] for the specific objectives referred to in points (a) and (c) of article 2(2);
(b)  EUR [233.000.000] for the specific objective referred to in Article 2(2)(b);	(b)  EUR [500.000.000] for the specific objective referred to in point (b) of Article 2(2);
	2a.  No less than 65% of funds referred to in Article 6 (2)(a) and Art 6(2)(b) shall be allocated to action grants, operating grants and core funding for civil society organisations.
3.  The amount referred to in paragraph 1 may be used for technical and administrative assistance for the implementation of the Programme, such as preparatory, monitoring, control, audit and evaluation activities including corporate information technology systems, studies, meetings of experts, communications on priorities and areas related to the general objectives of the programme.	3.  The amount referred to in paragraph 1 may be used for technical and administrative assistance for the implementation of the Programme, such as preparatory, monitoring, control, audit and evaluation activities including corporate information technology systems, studies, meetings of experts, communications on priorities and areas related to the general objectives of the programme.
4.  Without prejudice to the Financial Regulation, expenditure for actions resulting from projects included in the first work programme may be eligible as from 1 January 2021.	4.  Without prejudice to the Financial Regulation, expenditure for actions resulting from projects included in the first work programme may be eligible as from 1 January 2021.
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, 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.
Amendment    34 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, which shall ensure sound financial management, prudent use of public funds, low administrative burdens for the Programme operator and for beneficiaries as well as accessibility of the Programme funds to potential beneficiaries. The Programme shall provide funding primarily through action grants, annual and multiannual operating grants and core funding. It may use lump sums, unit costs, flat rates and financial assistance for third parties. Co-funding requirements shall be accepted in kind and may be waived in cases of limited complementary funding.
Amendment    35 Proposal for a regulation Article 9 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	Article 9a
	Activities eligible for funding
	The general and specific objectives of the Programme shall be pursued in particular, but not exclusively, through support to the following activities carried out by one or several eligible entities:
	(a)  awareness raising, public education, promotion and dissemination of information to improve the knowledge of the policies, principles and rights in the areas covered by the Programme and its objectives;
	(b)  analytical monitoring, reporting and advocacy activities to improve the understanding of the situation in the 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;
	(c)  training relevant stakeholders to improve their knowledge of the policies and rights in the fields covered and strengthening relevant stakeholders’ capability to advocate for the policies and rights in the fields covered;
	(d)  promoting public awareness and understanding of the risks, rules, safeguards and rights in relation to the protection of personal data, privacy, and digital security, as well as addressing fake news and targeted misinformation through awareness raising, trainings, studies and monitoring activities;
	(e)  strengthening citizen's awareness of European integration, culture, history, core values and remembrance as well as their sense of solidarity and belonging to the Union;
	(f)  bringing together Europeans of different nationalities and cultures by giving them the opportunity to participate in town-twinning activities, projects and volunteering at Union level;
	(g)  encouraging and facilitating active and inclusive participation in the construction of a more democratic Union as well as raising awareness, promoting and defending rights and values through support to civil society organisations;
	(h)  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;
	(i)  supporting 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)  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 the local, regional and national level;
	(k)  supporting initiatives and measures to promote and protect freedom and pluralism of the media, and to build capacity for the new challenges such as new media and countering hate speech;
	(l)  support and build capacity for civil society organisations active in promoting and monitoring transparency and integrity of public administration and fighting corruption;
	(m)  supporting civil society organisations active in the area of protection and promotion of fundamental rights, including support for actions to raise awareness of fundamental rights and contribute to social support and human rights education;
	(n)  supporting initiatives and measures to promote and protect freedom and pluralism of the media, and to build capacity for the new challenges such as new media and countering hate speech;
	(o)  supporting activities aimed at promoting peaceful democratic dialogue between people of different political views.
	(p)  supporting information and Communication Technology (ICT) tools development and maintenance and measures to promote media literacy among the public;
Amendment    36 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    37 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;	–  a third country associated to the Programme in accordance with Article 7 of this Regulation;
Amendment    38 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.
(see amendments to Recitals 30 and 31 and Articles 13(2), 16 and 19)
Amendment    39 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    40 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.
(see amendments to Recitals 30 and 31 and Articles 13(1), 16 and 19)
Justification
The work programmes should be adopted by means of delegated acts. This amendment proposes the appropriate wording.
Amendment    41 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 social partners and organisations, who may not always have the know-how and adequate resources and staff to meet reporting requirements.
Amendment    42 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).
Justification
This amendment aims at ensuring a more consistent wording within the same paragraph.
Amendment    43 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 easy accessible by publishing it on its website.
Amendment    44 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.
(see amendments to Recitals 30 and 31 and Articles 13, 16(3) and (6) and 19)
Justification
The work programmes should be adopted by means of delegated acts. This amendment proposes the appropriate wording.
Amendment    45 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.
(see amendments to Recitals 30 and 31 and Articles 13, 16(2) and (6) and 19)
Justification
The work programmes should be adopted by means of delegated acts. This amendment proposes the appropriate wording.
Amendment    46 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 on Better Law-Making of 13 April 2016. 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.
Amendment    47 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 with respect to the implementation of the Programme.
Amendment    48 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 and 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.
(see amendments to Recitals 30 and 31 and Articles 13, 16(2) and (3) and 19)
Justification
The work programmes should be adopted by means of delegated acts. This amendment proposes the appropriate wording.
Amendment    49 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 to multiple audiences, including the media and the public and, where appropriate, beneficiaries of actions funded in this way and participants therein.
Amendment    50 Proposal for a regulation Article 18 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	Article 18a
	Programme contact points
	The Commission shall set up Contact Points in Member States in cooperation with local partners and/or Member States. The contact points shall provide stakeholders and beneficiaries of the Programme with impartial guidance and practical information and assistance in relation to all aspects of the Programme, including in relation to the application procedure, project implementation procedures, reporting and other formalities. The contact points may be managed by Member States or civil society organisations or consortia thereof.
Amendment    51 Proposal for a regulation Article 19
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Article 19	deleted
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.
(see amendments to Recitals 30 and 31 and Articles 13 and 16)
Justification
This article needs to be deleted since the proposal should not include any reference to implementing acts.
Amendment    52 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 activities31 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.
_________________
31 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.

PROCEDURE – COMMITTEE ASKED FOR OPINION

Title	Establishing the Rights and Values programme
References	COM(2018)0383 – C8-0234/2018 – 2018/0207(COD)
Committee responsible        Date announced in plenary	LIBE 14.6.2018
Opinion by        Date announced in plenary	AFCO 14.6.2018
Rapporteur        Date appointed	Josep-Maria Terricabras 24.9.2018
Discussed in committee	22.10.2018	12.11.2018
Date adopted	21.11.2018
Result of final vote	+: –: 0:	20 2 0
Members present for the final vote	Mercedes Bresso, Elmar Brok, Richard Corbett, Pascal Durand, Danuta Maria Hübner, Ramón Jáuregui Atondo, Jo Leinen, Morten Messerschmidt, Maite Pagazaurtundúa Ruiz, Markus Pieper, Paulo Rangel, Helmut Scholz, György Schöpflin, Pedro Silva Pereira, Barbara Spinelli, Kazimierz Michał Ujazdowski
Substitutes present for the final vote	Enrique Guerrero Salom, Jérôme Lavrilleux, Georg Mayer, Jasenko Selimovic, Rainer Wieland
Substitutes under Rule 200(2) present for the final vote	Pavel Svoboda

FINAL VOTE BY ROLL CALL IN COMMITTEE ASKED FOR OPINION

20	+
ALDE	Maite Pagazaurtundúa Ruiz, Jasenko Selimovic
GUE/NGL	Helmut Scholz, Barbara Spinelli
NI	Kazimierz Michał Ujazdowski
PPE	Elmar Brok, Danuta Maria Hübner, Jérôme Lavrilleux, Markus Pieper, Paulo Rangel, György Schöpflin, Pavel Svoboda, Rainer Wieland
S&D	Mercedes Bresso, Richard Corbett, Enrique Guerrero Salom, Ramón Jáuregui Atondo, Jo Leinen, Pedro Silva Pereira
VERTS/ALE	Pascal Durand

2	-
ECR	Morten Messerschmidt
ENF	Georg Mayer

0	0

Key to symbols:

+  :  in favour

-  :  against

0  :  abstention

OPINION of the Committee on Women's Rights and Gender Equality (27.11.2018)

for the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs

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))

Rapporteur for opinion: Sirpa Pietikäinen

(*) Associated committees – Rule 54 of the Rules of Procedure

SHORT JUSTIFICATION

Women's rights are human rights. Article 8 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union gives the Union the task of eliminating inequalities and promoting equality between men and women through all its activities. Achieving gender equality is in all our interests. Gender equal societies are more stable and more democratic. Gender equality is also directly linked to the economy, with positive GDP per capita impacts. Gender equality impacts economic growth through more women in STEM education, higher labour market participation of women and a lower gender pay gap[1].

Yet overall progress on gender equality in Europe is very slow, as reflected in the Gender Equality Index of 2017. Often silent and hidden multiple levels of discrimination against and unequal treatment of women, as well as various forms of violence against women, violates the fundamental rights of women. The Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence (the Istanbul Convention) remains to be ratified by all Member States.

Gender equality is not a static end-situation. Constant efforts must be made to promote and to maintain gender equality. For this purpose, gender mainstreaming throughout the new Rights and Values Programme is essential. Gender impact assessments and monitoring gender equality indicators has to be ensured. Gender budgeting and training on gender mainstreaming should be ensured for the quality functioning of the Programme and its Calls for Proposals.

Gender equality and preventing and combating all forms of violence against women and girls should be specific focus areas of the Rights and Values Programme, with a separate allocation ensured for the Daphne strand. In all programming, not just of the Daphne strand, the participation of women should be ensured, through targeted approaches, where necessary. Only through such investments can we reach gender equality, and the ultimate objective of equality and rights-based, inclusive and democratic society free of violence.

AMENDMENTS

The Committee on Women's Rights and Gender Equality calls on the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs, as the committee responsible, to take into account the following amendments:

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 Rights, Equality and Values programme
This amendment applies throughout the text and necessitates corresponding changes throughout.
Amendment    2 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 Council8 and the Europe for Citizens programme established by Council Regulation (EU) No 390/20149 , (hereafter 'the predecessor Programmes').	(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, divisions as well as threats to girl´s and women´s, LGBTQI and other human rights, equality, democracy, the rule of law, and an increasingly shrinking space for independent civil society, especially women´s rights organisations and human rights defenders it is more important than ever to promote, strengthen and defend justice, rights and EU values: universal human rights, respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and to support and protect those who defend these values and rights. 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 Council8 and the Europe for Citizens programme established by Council Regulation (EU) No 390/20149 , (hereafter 'the predecessor Programmes').
__________________	__________________
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)	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)	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)
Amendment    3 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 peopleʼs 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 primarily on people and entities which contribute to making our common values, rights and rich diversity alive and vibrant and to defending those rights and values and that diversity. The ultimate objective is to nurture and sustain equality and a rights-based, equal, inclusive and democratic society free of violence. That includes a vibrant, independent, and diverse civil society, encouraging peopleʼs 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.
Amendment    4 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 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 the critical dimension necessary at all levels to have concrete results in the field. That should be achieved by building on the positive experience of the predecessor Programmes. This will make it possible 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, where necessary to ensure equal participation, targeted approaches to promote all type of equality and gender-equality within.
Justification
Since women and men have different roles in society, they also have different opportunities to participate in activities in terms of for example time and balancing care responsibilities.
Amendment    5 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 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. Given that they have, historically, tended to be neglected, the history of women and their influence on historical events should be treated as a matter of particular significance. 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 an inclusive European identity and a sense of belonging together.
Amendment    6 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 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. (Gender Equality Index 2017). 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    7 Proposal for a regulation Recital 8 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(8a)  A strong and independent women’s rights movement is the most critical factor for improving women’s rights and gender equality. Women’s rights organisations are increasingly under attack in the EU. Therefore, it is key for the EU, to effectively counteract the shrinking space of civil society, and to provide strong support to women’s rights organisations, grassroots groups and defenders, particularly those working in challenging contexts.
Amendment    8 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 constitute a serious violation of fundamental human rights, and disproportionately affects women and girls, in particular in close relationships, as well as LGBTI persons and migrant and refugee women. 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. Combatting 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 EU’s justice system does not deliver adequate justice and protection to women and girls and consequently, victims of gender-based violence do not receive the necessary support; 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, as defined in the Istanbul Convention, 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.
Amendment    9 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    10 Proposal for a regulation Recital 9 b (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(9b)  Prevention and victims’ rights support should be designed with the participation of the target group and ensure that they meet the specific needs of those with multiple vulnerabilities.
Amendment    11 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    12 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 202010 ’ and in the Council Recommendation of 09 December 2013 on effective Roma integration measures in the Member States11.	(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, misogyny, ageism, racism, xenophobia, anti-semitism, anti-muslim hatred and other forms of intolerance, 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 202010 ’ and in the Council Recommendation of 09 December 2013 on effective Roma integration measures in the Member States11.
__________________	__________________
10 COM(2011)173.	10 COM(2011)173.
11 OJ C 378, 24.12.2013, p. 1.	11 OJ C 378, 24.12.2013, p. 1.
Amendment    13 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 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. Women and girls with disabilities may encounter multiple forms of discrimination and may have difficulties in accessing to health services, including sexual and reproductive health services. 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.
Amendment    14 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 promote the use of gender budgeting and gender impact assessment where necessary throughout the EU 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 how far they have served to the principles noted above.
Amendment    15 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 activists 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. Smaller organisations, which do much to uphold European values and fundamental rights, should be able to receive support without delays or complications. Whenever those values and rights come under assault from campaigns and other efforts, emergency funding, obtainable by straightforward application procedures, should be available to support immediate countermeasures. Complementing efforts at national level, EU funding should therefore contribute on a continuous long-term basis to supporting, empowering and building 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 promoting, safeguarding and raising awareness of the Union’s common values at national level. Projects in Member States where fundamental rights, and hence women’s rights, are being particularly threatened should constitute a further priority. The Programme should aim to increase the flexibility and accessibility of its funds and provide the same funding opportunities and conditions for civil society organisations inside as for the ones outside the EU
Amendment    16 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    17 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 Rights, Equality and Values programme (‘Programme’).
	(This amendment applies throughout the text and necessitates corresponding changes throughout)
.
Amendment    18 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 EU Treaties, including by supporting civil society organisations, in order to sustain open, democratic, equal and inclusive societies. Both this Programme and the projects to be funded are bound by the principle of gender mainstreaming.
Amendment    19 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 human rights, equality and non-discrimination (Rights and Equality strand),
Amendment    20 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 gender-based violence (Daphne strand).
Justification
Due to limited resources, the Daphne strand should focus on gender-based violence as a specific form of violence and not be enlarged. Violence against other groups should be covered under the strand 1 Equality and rights of the Rights and Values Programme (which in the Commission’s proposal includes “preventing and combating inequalities and discrimination on grounds of sex, racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation”).
Amendment    21 Proposal for a regulation Article 2 a a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(a a)  to promote gender equality and to advance gender mainstreaming (Gender equality and gender mainstreaming strand);
Amendment    22 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)  preventing and combating inequalities, discrimination and harassment on grounds of sex, racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation or a combination thereof; and supporting comprehensive policies to promote equality,anti-discrimination, diversity, inclusiveness and their mainstreaming as well policies to combat racism and all forms of hate and intolerance;
Amendment    23 Proposal for a regulation Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point b
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(b)  protecting and promoting the rights of the child, the rights of people with disabilities, Union citizenship rights and the right to the protection of personal data.	(b)  supporting comprehensive policies to combat racism and all forms of hate and intolerance and promote equality, anti-discrimination, diversity and inclusiveness.
Amendment    24 Proposal for a regulation Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point b a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(ba)  protecting and promoting the rights of the child, the rights of people with disabilities, Union citizenship rights and the right to the protection of personal data.
Amendment    25 Proposal for a regulation Article 3 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	Article 3a
	Gender equality and gender mainstreaming strand
	Within the specific objective set out in point (a a) of Article2(2), the Programme shall focus on supporting comprehensive policies and programmes to promote women’s rights, gender equality, women’s empowerment and gender mainstreaming.
Amendment    26 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)  increasing citizens’ understanding of the Union, its history, cultural heritage and diversity; enhancing the profile and participation of women and people with a variety of backgrounds and identities with a view to creating an inclusive European identity;
Amendment    27 Proposal for a regulation Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point b a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(ba)   ensuring an enabling environment for civil society organisations and human rights defenders, supporting their capacity to promote human rights, democracy, the rule of law and gender equality, and ensuring the protection of organisations, groups and individuals who defend these values;
Amendment    28 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 gender-based violence 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    29 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 ensuring the same level of protection throughout the EU for victims of gender-based violence.
Amendment    30 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 [484.000.000 in constant prices] for the specific objectives referred to in article 2(2)(a), 2(2)(a)(a) and 2(2)(c) of which at least 20% would be reserved for the implementation of 2(2)(a)(a) and at least 50% would be reserved for the implementation of 2(2)(c);
Amendment    31 Proposal for a regulation Article 6 – paragraph 3
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
3.  The amount referred to in paragraph 1 may be used for technical and administrative assistance for the implementation of the Programme, such as preparatory, monitoring, control, audit and evaluation activities including corporate information technology systems, studies, meetings of experts, communications on priorities and areas related to the general objectives of the programme.	3.  The amount referred to in paragraph 1 may be used for technical and administrative assistance for the implementation of the Programme, such as preparatory, monitoring, control, audit and evaluation activities including corporate information technology systems, studies, consultations with civil society including women’s organisations and networks, trainings on gender mainstreaming, gender impact assessments, meetings of experts, communications on priorities and areas related to the general objectives of the programme.
Amendment    32 Proposal for a regulation Article 8 – paragraph 3 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	3a.  The Programme shall provide the possibility to support unregistered organisations and individual human rights defenders, including through direct award and eligibility-restricted procedures; low-value grants; where appropriate without the need for co-financing, and with confidentiality where necessary, to finance actions in the most difficult conditions; re-granting mechanisms, as a way to ensure that support is provided to local and national civil society organisations and human rights defenders.
Amendment    33 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, with the proviso that its composition shall be based on parity.
Amendment    34 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) to cover expenditure associated to its permanent work programme provided that a gender impact assessment has been completed of their work programme.
Amendment    35 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 work programme shall be adopted by the Commission after carrying out a gender impact assessment and by means of an implementing act. That implementing act shall be adopted in accordance with the advisory procedure referred to in Article 19.
Amendment    36 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 disaggregated by gender to report on progress of the Programme towards the achievement of the specific objectives, including those related to gender equality, set out in Article 2 are set out in Annex II.
Amendment    37 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. Such data shall be sex-disaggregated when properly applied. To that end, proportionate reporting requirements shall be imposed on recipients of Union funds and Member States.
Amendment    38 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 taking into account the number of people reached, their feedback and their geographical coverage and carried out in a timely manner to feed into the decision-making process.
Amendment    39 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 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). 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    40 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 on Better Law-Making of 13 April 2016, having regard to parity.
Amendment    41 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. 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. Member States should actively support these information activities.

PROCEDURE – COMMITTEE ASKED FOR OPINION

Title	Establishing the Rights and Values programme
References	COM(2018)0383 – C8-0234/2018 – 2018/0207(COD)
Committee responsible        Date announced in plenary	LIBE 14.6.2018
Opinion by        Date announced in plenary	FEMM 14.6.2018
Associated committees - date announced in plenary	5.7.2018
Rapporteur        Date appointed	Sirpa Pietikäinen 12.7.2018
Discussed in committee	10.10.2018
Date adopted	21.11.2018
Result of final vote	+: –: 0:	21 2 2
Members present for the final vote	Daniela Aiuto, Malin Björk, Vilija Blinkevičiūtė, Anna Maria Corazza Bildt, Iratxe García Pérez, Anna Hedh, Mary Honeyball, Teresa Jiménez-Becerril Barrio, Agnieszka Kozłowska-Rajewicz, Florent Marcellesi, Barbara Matera, Angelika Mlinar, Maria Noichl, Pina Picierno, Terry Reintke, Ernest Urtasun, Anna Záborská
Substitutes present for the final vote	Biljana Borzan, Lívia Járóka, Urszula Krupa, Clare Moody, Mylène Troszczynski, Julie Ward
Substitutes under Rule 200(2) present for the final vote	Paloma López Bermejo, Marisa Matias

FINAL VOTE BY ROLL CALL IN COMMITTEE ASKED FOR OPINION

21	+
ALDE	Angelika Mlinar
EFDD	Daniela Aiuto
GUE/NGL	Malin Björk, Paloma López Bermejo, Marisa Matias
PPE	Lívia Járóka, Teresa Jiménez-Becerril Barrio, Agnieszka Kozłowska-Rajewicz, Barbara Matera
S&D	Vilija Blinkevičiūtė, Biljana Borzan, Iratxe García Pérez, Anna Hedh, Mary Honeyball, Clare Moody, Maria Noichl, Pina Picierno, Julie Ward
VERTS/ALE	Florent Marcellesi, Terry Reintke, Ernest Urtasun

2	-
ECR	Urszula Krupa
ENF	Mylène Troszczynski

2	0
PPE	Anna Maria Corazza Bildt, Anna Záborská

Key to symbols:

+  :  in favour

-  :  against

0  :  abstention

• [1]  European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE): Economic benefits of gender equality in the European Union (2017), available: https://eige.europa.eu/sites/default/files/documents/mh0217174enn_web.pdf

PROCEDURE – COMMITTEE RESPONSIBLE

Title	Establishing the Rights and Values programme
References	COM(2018)0383 – C8-0234/2018 – 2018/0207(COD)
Date submitted to Parliament	30.5.2018
Committee responsible        Date announced in plenary	LIBE 14.6.2018
Committees asked for opinions        Date announced in plenary	BUDG 14.6.2018	EMPL 14.6.2018	ENVI 14.6.2018	CULT 14.6.2018
	JURI 14.6.2018	AFCO 14.6.2018	FEMM 14.6.2018	PETI 14.6.2018
Not delivering opinions        Date of decision	ENVI 21.6.2018	PETI 19.6.2018
Associated committees        Date announced in plenary	FEMM 5.7.2018	CULT 5.7.2018
Rapporteurs        Date appointed	Bodil Valero 9.7.2018
Discussed in committee	10.9.2018	10.10.2018	19.11.2018	10.12.2018
Date adopted	10.12.2018
Result of final vote	+: –: 0:	25 6 1
Members present for the final vote	Martina Anderson, Monika Beňová, Michał Boni, Cornelia Ernst, Romeo Franz, Nathalie Griesbeck, Jussi Halla-aho, Monika Hohlmeier, Sophia in ‘t Veld, Dietmar Köster, Juan Fernando López Aguilar, Roberta Metsola, Claude Moraes, Péter Niedermüller, Ivari Padar, Giancarlo Scottà, Birgit Sippel, Csaba Sógor, Helga Stevens, Bodil Valero, Harald Vilimsky, Josef Weidenholzer
Substitutes present for the final vote	Marek Jurek, Jean Lambert, Andrejs Mamikins, Angelika Mlinar, Maite Pagazaurtundúa Ruiz, Barbara Spinelli, Axel Voss
Substitutes under Rule 200(2) present for the final vote	Lucy Anderson, Margrete Auken, Anthea McIntyre
Date tabled	17.12.2018

FINAL VOTE BY ROLL CALL IN COMMITTEE RESPONSIBLE

25	+
ALDE	Nathalie Griesbeck, Sophia in 't Veld, Angelika Mlinar, Maite Pagazaurtundúa Ruiz
GUE/NGL	Martina Anderson, Cornelia Ernst, Barbara Spinelli
PPE	Michał Boni, Roberta Metsola, Csaba Sógor, Axel Voss
S&D	Lucy Anderson, Monika Beňová, Dietmar Köster, Juan Fernando López Aguilar, Andrejs Mamikins, Claude Moraes, Péter Niedermüller, Ivari Padar, Birgit Sippel, Josef Weidenholzer
VERTS/ALE	Margrete Auken, Romeo Franz, Jean Lambert, Bodil Valero

6	-
ECR	Jussi Halla-aho, Marek Jurek, Anthea McIntyre, Helga Stevens
ENF	Giancarlo Scottà, Harald Vilimsky

1	0
PPE	Monika Hohlmeier

Key to symbols:

+  :  in favour

-  :  against

0  :  abstention