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

6.2.2019 - (COM(2018)0384 – C8‑0235/2018 – 2018/0208(COD)) - ***I

Committee on Legal Affairs
Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs
Rapporteurs: Heidi Hautala, Josef Weidenholzer
(Joint committee procedure – Rule 55 of the Rules of Procedure)

DRAFT EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION

on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing the Justice programme

(COM(2018)0384 – C8‑0235/2018 – 2018/0208(COD))

(Ordinary legislative procedure: first reading)

The European Parliament,

–  having regard to the Commission proposal to Parliament and the Council (COM(2018)0384),

–  having regard to Article 294(2), Article 81(1) and (2) and Article 82(1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, pursuant to which the Commission submitted the proposal to Parliament (C8‑0235/2018),

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

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

–  having regard to the joint deliberations of the Committee on Legal Affairs and the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs under Rule 55 of the Rules of Procedure,

–  having regard to the report of the Committee on Legal Affairs and the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs and the opinions of the Committee on Budgets, the Committee on Budgetary Control and the Committee on Women's Rights and Gender Equality (A8-0068/2019),

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

2.  Recalls its resolution of 14 March 2018 on the next MFF: Preparing the Parliament’s position on the MFF post-2020[1]; 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; reiterates that a stronger and a more ambitious Union can only be achieved if it is provided with reinforced financial means; calls, therefore, for providing continuous support to existing policies, for increasing resources to the Union’ flagship programmes, and for additional responsibilities to be matched with additional financial means;

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

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

Amendment    1 Proposal for a regulation Recital 1
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(1)  According to Article 2 of the Treaty on 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’. These values are further reaffirmed and articulated in the rights, freedoms and principles enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union (‘the Charter’).	(1)  According to Article 2 of the Treaty on 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’. Article 8 TFEU further states that the Union shall, through all its activities, aim at eliminating inequalities, promote gender equality and combat discrimination when defining and implementing its policies and activities. These values are further reaffirmed and articulated in the rights, freedoms and principles enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union (‘the Charter’) and the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
Amendment    2 Proposal for a regulation Recital 1 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(1 a)  In line with Articles 8 and 10 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, the Justice Programme in all its activities should support gender mainstreaming, including gender budgeting, and the mainstreaming of non-discrimination objectives.
Amendment    3 Proposal for a regulation Recital 2
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(2)  These rights and values must continue to be promoted and enforced, shared among the citizens and peoples within the Union and be at the heart of Europe’s societies, Therefore, a new Justice, Rights and Values Fund, comprising the Rights and Values and the Justice programmes shall be created in the Union 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 a part of the new Fund, the Rights and Values Programme will bring together the 2014-2020 Rights, Equality and Citizenship Programme established by Regulation (EU) No 1381/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council10 and the Europe for Citizens programme established by Regulation (EU) No 390/2014 of the Council11. The Justice programme (hereafter the 'Programme') will continue to support the development of an integrated European justice area and cross-border cooperation, in continuity with the 2014-2020 Justice Programme established by Regulation (EU) No 1381/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council12 (hereafter 'the predecessor Programme').	(2)  These rights and values must continue to be actively cultivated, protected, promoted by the Union and each Member State in all their policies, in a consistent way, as well as enforced and shared among the citizens and peoples within the Union and be at the heart of Europe’s societies, At the same time, a properly functioning European area of justice and of efficient, independent and quality national legal systems, as well as greater mutual trust, are necessary for a flourishing internal market and for upholding the common values of the Union. Therefore, a new Justice, Rights and Values Fund, comprising the Rights and Values and the Justice programmes shall be created in the Union budget. At a time where European societies are confronted with extremism, radicalism, polarisation and divisions, and proceedings under Article 7 of the Treaty on European Union, relating to systematic breaches of the rule of law, as well as infringement proceedings on issues relating to the rule of law in Member States, are ongoing, it is more important than ever to promote, strengthen and defend justice, rights and EU values: human rights and fundamental rights, respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, including gender equality, non-discrimination and the rule of law, since the deterioration of those rights and values in any Member State can have detrimental effects on the Union as a whole. This will have profound and direct implications for political, social, cultural and economic life in the EU. As a part of the new Fund, the Rights and Values Programme will bring together the 2014-2020 Rights, Equality and Citizenship Programme established by Regulation (EU) No 1381/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council10 and the Europe for Citizens programme established by Regulation (EU) No 390/2014 of the Council11 . The Justice programme (hereafter the 'Programme') will continue to support the development of an integrated European justice area and cross-border cooperation, in continuity with the 2014-2020 Justice Programme established by Regulation (EU) No 1381/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council12 (hereafter 'the predecessor Programme').
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10 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)	10 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)
11 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)	11 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)
12 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).	12 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    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 our rights-based, equal, inclusive and democratic society. That includes a vibrant civil society, encouraging people’s democratic, civic and social participation and to fostering the rich diversity of European society, also based on our common history and memory. Article 11 of the EU Treaty 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 our rights-based, equal, open, inclusive and democratic society, in particular by funding activities that promote a vibrant, well-developed, resilient and empowered civil society, enabling people’s democratic, civic and social participation, and the proper application and implementation of human and fundamental rights, fostering the rich diversity of European society, also based on our common history and memory. Article 11 of the EU Treaty 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. This is particularly important in the light of the increasingly shrinking space for independent civil society in a number of Member States.
Amendment    5 Proposal for a regulation Recital 4
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(4)  The Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) provides for the creation of an area of freedom, security and justice, with respect for fundamental rights and the different legal systems and traditions of the Member States. To that end, the Union may adopt measures to develop judicial cooperation in civil matters and judicial cooperation in criminal matters and to promote and support the action of Member States in the field of crime prevention. Respect for fundamental rights as well as for common principles and values, such as non-discrimination, gender equality, effective access to justice for all, the rule of law and a well-functioning independent judicial system shall be ensured in the further development of a European area of justice.	(4)  The Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) provides for the creation of an area of freedom, security and justice, with respect for fundamental rights and the different legal systems and traditions of the Member States. Respect for and promotion of the rule of law, fundamental rights and democracy within the Union are prerequisites for upholding all rights and obligations enshrined in the Treaties, and for building people's trust in the Union. 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 between their legal systems. To that end, the Union may adopt measures to develop judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters and, when applicable, administrative matters and to promote and support the action of Member States in the field of crime prevention, focusing in particular on serious cross-border crimes, fiscal crimes, environmental crimes, terrorism and violations of fundamental rights, such as human trafficking, and in the field of victims’ rights protection. Respect for human and fundamental rights as well as for common principles and values, such as non-discrimination, solidarity, equal treatment on the basis of any of the grounds listed in Article 21 of the Charter, effective access to justice for all, the rule of law, democracy and a well-functioning independent judicial system should be ensured and fostered in the further development of a European area of justice at local, regional and national levels.
Amendment    6 Proposal for a regulation Recital 4 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(4 a)  Article 81 TFEU explicitly provides that the Union may adopt legal acts for the approximation of laws of the Member States. Under the Treaty, such acts may be adopted inter alia for the mutual recognition and enforcement between Member States of judgments and extrajudicial decisions; the cross-border service of judicial and extrajudicial documents; the compatibility of the private international law rules applicable in the Member States concerning conflict of laws and of jurisdiction; cooperation in the taking of evidence; effective access to justice; the elimination of obstacles to the proper functioning of civil, criminal and administrative proceedings, which may include making national court procedures more compatible; the development of alternative dispute resolution (ADR); and support for training of the judiciary and judicial staff.
Amendment    7 Proposal for a regulation Recital 5
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(5)  Financing should remain one of the important tools for the successful implementation of the ambitious goals set by the Treaties. They should be attained inter alia by establishing a flexible and effective Justice Programme which should facilitate planning and implementation of those goals.	(5)  Financing is one of the most important tools for the successful implementation of the ambitious goals set by the Treaties. They should be attained inter alia by establishing a flexible and effective Justice Programme which should facilitate planning and implementation of those goals, taking into account which activities bring the highest Union added value, using key performance indicators, whenever possible.
Amendment    8 Proposal for a regulation Recital 5 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(5 a)  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 Union.
Amendment    9 Proposal for a regulation Recital 6
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(6)  For the gradual establishment of an area of freedom, security and justice, the Union is to adopt measures relating to judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters based on the principle of mutual recognition of judgments and judicial decisions, which is a cornerstone of judicial cooperation within the Union since the Tampere European Council of 15 and 16 October 1999. Mutual recognition requires a high level of mutual trust among Member States. Measures to approximate the laws of the Member States in several areas have been adopted to facilitate mutual recognition and foster mutual trust. A well-functioning area of justice, where obstacles in cross-border judicial proceedings and access to justice in cross-border situations are eliminated, is also key to ensure economic growth.	(6)  For the gradual establishment of an area of freedom, security and justice for all, the Union is to adopt measures relating to judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters based on the principle of mutual recognition of judgments and judicial decisions, which is a cornerstone of judicial cooperation within the Union since the Tampere European Council of 15 and 16 October 1999. Mutual recognition requires a high level of mutual trust among Member States. Measures to approximate the laws of the Member States in several areas have been adopted to facilitate mutual recognition and foster mutual trust. A well-functioning area of justice, where obstacles in cross-border judicial proceedings and access to justice in cross-border situations are eliminated, is also key to ensure economic growth and further integration.
Amendment    10 Proposal for a regulation Recital 6 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(6 a)  As recalled by the Court of Justice of the European Union in its case law1a, judicial independence forms part of the essence of the fundamental right to a fair trial and represents the basis for mutual trust and mutual recognition.
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	1a CJEU, Grand Chamber, 27 February 2018, C-64/16, Asociação Sindical dos Juízes Portugueses, ECLI:EU:C:2018:117; CJEU, Grand Chamber, 25 July 2018, C-216/18 PPU, L.M., ECLI:EU:C:2018:586.
Amendment    11 Proposal for a regulation Recital 6 b (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(6 b)  Access to justice should include, in particular, access to courts, to alternative methods of dispute settlement, and to public office-holders who are obliged by the law to provide parties with independent and impartial legal advice.
Amendment    12 Proposal for a regulation Recital 6 c (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(6 c)  The incorporation of the gender perspective in justice systems should be considered an important goal to further develop the European area of justice. Intersectional discrimination in the justice system is still one of the main barriers in terms of women’s equal access to justice. The programme should therefore actively contribute to the elimination of any discrimination and barriers to minorities, persons with disabilities, migrants, asylum seekers, elderly people, people living in remote areas or any vulnerable groups that might be faced with restrictions to access to justice, and support victim-friendly and gender sensitive procedures and decisions in judicial systems.
Amendment    13 Proposal for a regulation Recital 7
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(7)  Respect for the rule of law is essential for a high level of mutual trust in the area of justice and home affairs, in particular for effective judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters which is based on mutual recognition. The rule of law is one of the common values enshrined in Article TEU 2, and the principle of effective judicial protection provided for in Articles 19(1) TEU and 47 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights is a concrete expression of the rule of law. Promoting the rule of law by supporting the efforts to improve the independence, quality and efficiency of national justice systems enhances the mutual trust which is indispensable for judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters.	(7)  Full respect and promotion of the rule of law is essential for a high level of mutual trust in the area of freedom, security and justice and home affairs, in particular for effective judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters which is based on mutual recognition. The rule of law is one of the common values enshrined in Article TEU 2, and the principle of effective judicial protection provided for in Articles 19(1) TEU and 47 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights is a concrete expression of the rule of law. Promoting the rule of law by supporting the efforts to improve the independence, transparency, accountability, quality and efficiency of national justice systems enhances the mutual trust which is indispensable for judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters.
Amendment    14 Proposal for a regulation Recital 7 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(7 a)  It is important to recall that justice means affirming the rule of law in society and ensuring for everyone the right to a fair trial by an independent and impartial court with a view to the protection of European values.
Amendment    15 Proposal for a regulation Recital 8
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(8)  Pursuant to Articles 81(2)(h) and 82(1)(c) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU, the Union shall support the training of the judiciary and judicial staff as a tool to improve judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters based on the principle of mutual recognition of judgments and of judicial decisions. Training of justice professionals is an important tool to develop a common understanding of how best to uphold the rule of law. It contributes to the building of the European area of justice by creating a common judicial culture among justice professionals of the Member States. It is essential to ensure the correct and coherent application of law in the Union and mutual trust between justice professionals in cross-border proceedings. The training activities supported by the Programme should be based on sound training needs’ assessments, use state of the art training methodology, include cross-border events gathering justice professionals of different Member States, comprise active learning and networking elements and be sustainable.	(8)  Pursuant to Articles 81(2)(h) and 82(1)(c) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU, the Union shall support the training of the judiciary and judicial staff as a tool to improve judicial cooperation in civil, and criminal matters and, when applicable, administrative matters based on the principle of mutual recognition of judgments and of judicial decisions. Training of justice professionals is an important tool to develop a common understanding of how best to implement and uphold the rule of law and fundamental rights. It contributes to the building of the European area of justice by creating a common judicial culture among justice professionals of the Member States. It is essential to ensure the non-discriminatory, correct and coherent application of law in the Union and mutual trust and understanding between justice professionals in cross-border proceedings. The training activities supported by the Programme should be based on sound training needs’ assessments, use state of the art training methodology, include cross-border events gathering justice professionals, including those working for civil society organisations, of different Member States, comprise active learning and networking elements and be sustainable. It should include training courses for judges, lawyers, prosecutors and police about the challenges and obstacles experienced by people in a vulnerable situation, including children, ethnic minorities, LGBTI people, persons with disabilities, victims of gender-based and other forms of interpersonal violence and victims of trafficking, and about how to ensure that victims of crimes are properly protected. Such training courses should be organised with the direct involvement of such persons and organisations representing or supporting them.
Amendment    16 Proposal for a regulation Recital 8 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(8 a)  Reasonable time-limits for proceedings serve the purpose of legal certainty, which is the key requirement for the rule of law.
Amendment    17 Proposal for a regulation Recital 8 b (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(8 b)  Pursuant to Council Decision (EU) 2017/865 of 11 May 2017 on the signing, on behalf of the European Union, of the Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence with regard to matters related to judicial cooperation in criminal matters, and the respective decision with regard to asylum and non-refoulement, the Programme should support the training of the judiciary and judicial staff with a view to raising awareness and promoting the practical application of the Convention within this scope to better protect victims of violence against women and girls across the Union.
Amendment    18 Proposal for a regulation Recital 9
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(9)  Judicial training can involve different actors, such as Member States’ legal, judicial and administrative authorities, academic institutions, national bodies responsible for judicial training, European-level training organisations or networks, or networks of court coordinators of Union law. Bodies and entities pursuing a general European interest in the field of training of the judiciary, such as the European Judicial Training Network ('EJTN'), the Academy of European Law ('ERA'), the European Network of Councils for the Judiciary ('ENCJ'), the Association of the Councils of State and Supreme Administrative Jurisdictions of the European Union ('ACA-Europe'), the Network of the Presidents of Supreme Judicial Courts of the European Union ('RPCSJUE') and the European Institute of Public Administration ('EIPA'), should continue to play their role in promoting training programmes with a genuine European dimension for the judiciary and judicial staff, and could therefore be granted adequate financial support in accordance with the procedures and the criteria set out in the annual work programmes adopted by the Commission pursuant to this Regulation.	(9)  Judicial training can involve different actors, such as Member States’ legal, judicial and administrative authorities, academic institutions, national bodies responsible for judicial training, European-level training organisations or networks, or networks of court coordinators of Union law, as well as relevant civil society organisations including those bringing forward representative actions. Bodies and entities pursuing a general European interest in the field of training of the judiciary, such as the European Judicial Training Network ('EJTN'), the Academy of European Law ('ERA'), the European Network of Councils for the Judiciary ('ENCJ'), the Association of the Councils of State and Supreme Administrative Jurisdictions of the European Union ('ACA-Europe'), the Network of the Presidents of Supreme Judicial Courts of the European Union ('RPCSJUE') and the European Institute of Public Administration ('EIPA'), should continue to play their role in promoting training programmes with a genuine European dimension for the judiciary and judicial staff, and could therefore be granted adequate financial support in accordance with the procedures and the criteria set out in the annual work programmes adopted by the Commission pursuant to this Regulation. In addition, organisations in the fields of fundamental rights, and professionals working with victims of violence as well as specialised academic institutions could also contribute to such training programmes, and should therefore be associated whenever relevant. Taking into account that women judges are underrepresented in the top positions, women judges, prosecutors and other legal professions should be encouraged to participate in the training activities.
Amendment    19 Proposal for a regulation Recital 9 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(9 a)  The Member States should invest more in development of judicial training courses and continuous education for judges as such activities form a basis for an efficient, independent and impartial judicial system.
Amendment    20 Proposal for a regulation Recital 10 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(10 a)  The programme should also support the promotion of best practices between courts specifically handling gender-based violence and the exchange of common resources and training materials on gender-based violence for judges, public prosecutors, lawyers, police and other professionals that come into contact with victims of gender based violence.
Amendment    21 Proposal for a regulation Recital 11
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(11)  Measures under the Programme should support enhanced mutual recognition of judicial decisions and judgments and the necessary approximation of legislation that will facilitate cooperation between all the relevant authorities, including Financial Intelligence Units, and the judicial protection of individual rights in civil and commercial matters. The Programme should also advance the procedural legislation for cross-border cases and greater convergence in civil law that will help to eliminate obstacles to good and efficient functioning judicial and extra-judicial procedures in benefit of all parties in a civil dispute. Finally, in order to support the effective enforcement and practical application of the Union law on judicial cooperation in civil matters, the Programme should support the functioning of the European Judicial Network in Civil and Commercial matters established by Council Decision 2001/470/EC.	(11)  Measures under the Programme should support enhanced mutual recognition of judicial decisions and judgments, mutual trust between Member States and the necessary approximation of legislation that will facilitate cooperation between all the relevant authorities, including Financial Intelligence Units, and the judicial protection of individual rights in civil and commercial matters. The Programme should also advance the procedural legislation for cross-border cases including mediation procedures, especially focusing on facilitating non-discriminatory access to justice for all, and greater convergence, in particular in civil law that will help to eliminate obstacles to good and efficient functioning judicial and extra-judicial procedures in benefit of all parties in a civil dispute. Finally, in order to support the effective enforcement and practical application of the Union law on judicial cooperation in civil matters, the Programme should support the functioning of the European Judicial Network in Civil and Commercial matters established by Council Decision 2001/470/EC.
Amendment    22 Proposal for a regulation Recital 12
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(12)  Pursuant to Article 3(3) of the TEU, Article 24 of the Charter and the 1989 United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, the Programme should support the protection of the rights of the child, and should mainstream the promotion of the rights of the child in the implementation of all of its actions.	(12)  Pursuant to Article 3(3) of the TEU, Article 24 of the Charter and the 1989 United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, the Programme should support the protection of the rights of the child, and should mainstream the promotion of the rights of the child in the implementation of all of its actions. To this purpose, particular attention should be given to actions aimed at the protection of the rights of children in the context of civil and criminal justice, including the protection of children accompanying parents in detention and children of imprisoned parents. Appropriate support should also be considered in favour of training activities aimed at the proper implementation of Directive (EU) 2016/800 on procedural safeguards for children who are suspects or accused persons in criminal proceedings.
Amendment    23 Proposal for a regulation Recital 12 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(12 a)  Pursuant to Article 3(3) TEU, Article 23 of the Charter and the Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence (Istanbul Convention), the Programme should support the protection of women’s rights, and should mainstream the promotion of gender-based issues in the implementation of all of its actions. To ensure and strengthen women’s and girls’ access to justice in cases of gender-based violence, Member States should ratify the Istanbul Convention and adopt comprehensive legislation against gender-based violence in the Union.
Amendment    24 Proposal for a regulation Recital 12 b (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(12 b)  Pursuant to the Council Directive 2000/43/EC of 29 June 2000 implementing the principle of equal treatment between persons irrespective of racial or ethnic origin, the Programme should support the protection of people belonging to racial or ethnic minorities, such as Roma, and mainstream the promotion of their rights in the implementation of all of its actions, in particular by strengthening anti-discrimination measures.
Amendment    25 Proposal for a regulation Recital 13
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(13)  The 2014-2020 Programme has enabled training activities on Union law, in particular on the scope and application of the Charter, targeted at members of the judiciary and other legal practitioners. In its conclusions of 12 October 2017 on the application of the Charter in 2016, the Council recalled the importance of awareness-raising on the application of the Charter, including among policymakers, legal practitioners and the rights holders themselves, at national as well as at Union level. Therefore, to mainstream fundamental rights in a consistent way, it is necessary to extend financial support to awareness –raising activities for other public authorities than judicial authorities and legal practitioners.	(13)  The 2014-2020 Programme has enabled training activities on Union law, in particular on the scope and application of the Charter, targeted at members of the judiciary and other legal practitioners. In its conclusions of 12 October 2017 on the application of the Charter in 2016, the Council recalled the importance of awareness-raising on the application of the Charter, including among policymakers, legal practitioners and the rights holders themselves, at national as well as at Union level. Therefore, to mainstream fundamental rights in a consistent way, it is necessary to extend financial support to awareness –raising activities for other public authorities than judicial authorities and legal practitioners, and for NGOs undertaking this task as well.
Amendment    26 Proposal for a regulation Recital 14
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(14)  Pursuant to Article 67 TFEU, the Union should constitute an area of freedom, security and justice with respect for fundamental rights, to which access to justice is instrumental. In order to facilitate effective access to justice, and with a view to foster the mutual trust which is indispensable for the good functioning of the area of freedom, security and justice, it is necessary to extend financial support to activities of other authorities than judicial authorities and legal practitioners, as well as of civil society organisations, which contribute to these objectives.	(14)  Pursuant to Article 67 TFEU, the Union should constitute an area of freedom, security and justice with respect for fundamental rights, to which non-discriminatory access to justice for all is instrumental. In order to facilitate effective access to justice, and with a view to foster the mutual trust which is indispensable for the good functioning of the area of freedom, security and justice, it is necessary to extend financial support to activities of other authorities than judicial authorities at national regional and local level, and legal practitioners, as well as of civil society organisations including those representing the rights of victims of crimes, which contribute to these objectives. In order to achieve access to justice for all, support should be given, in particular, to activities which facilitate effective and equal access to justice for people in a vulnerable situation such as children, ethnic minorities, LGBTI people, persons with disabilities, victims of gender-based and other forms of interpersonal violence and victims of trafficking and migrants, irrespective of their residence status.
Amendment    27 Proposal for a regulation Recital 15
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(15)  Pursuant to Articles 8 and 10 TFEU, the Programme should also support the mainstreaming of equality between women and men and non-discrimination objectives in all its activities.	(15)  Pursuant to Articles 8 and 10 TFEU, the Programme should take a cross-cutting approach to promote gender equality and support the mainstreaming of gender equality and non-discrimination objectives in all its activities. Regular monitoring and evaluation should be carried out to assess the way in which those objectives are addressed in the Programme's activities.
Amendment    28 Proposal for a regulation Recital 16
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(16)  Actions covered by this Regulation should contribute to the creation of a European area of justice, increasing cross-border cooperation and networking and achieving the correct, coherent and consistent application of Union law. Funding activities should also contribute to a common understanding of the Union’s values, the rule of law, to better knowledge of Union law and policies, to sharing know-how and best practices in using judicial cooperation instruments by all concerned stakeholders, as well as to a proliferation of interoperable digital solutions underpinning seamless and efficient cross-border cooperation, and should provide a sound analytical basis to support the development, enforcement and proper implementation of Union law and policies. Union intervention allows for those actions to be pursued consistently across the Union and brings economies of scale. Moreover, the Union is in a better position than Member States to address cross-border situations and to provide a European platform for mutual learning.	(16)  Actions covered by this Regulation should contribute to the creation of a European area of justice, fostering the independence and efficiency of the legal system, increasing cross-border cooperation and networking, underpinning mutual trust between the Member State judiciaries and achieving the correct, coherent and consistent application of Union law. Particular attention should be given to the application of Union equality law and to a better implementation of and coordination between the various Union instruments for protection of victims. Funding activities should also contribute to a common understanding of the Union’s values, the rule of law, to better knowledge of Union law and policies, to sharing know-how and best practices in using judicial cooperation instruments by all concerned stakeholders, as well as to a proliferation and promotion of interoperable digital solutions underpinning seamless and efficient cross-border cooperation, and should provide a sound analytical basis to support the development, enforcement and proper understanding and implementation of Union law and policies. Union intervention allows for those actions to be pursued consistently across the Union and brings economies of scale. Moreover, the Union is in a better position than Member States to address cross-border situations and to provide a European platform for mutual learning and sharing of best practice.
Amendment    29 Proposal for a regulation Recital 16 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(16 a)  The Programme should also contribute to enhancing cooperation with third countries whenever Union law has an extraterritorial application, to improve access to justice and facilitate tackling judicial and procedural challenges in particular in cases of human trafficking, and relating to climate change and corporate business responsibility.
Amendment    30 Proposal for a regulation Recital 16 b (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(16 b)  As highlighted by the European Parliament's Report on the European Commission's 2017 Justice Scoreboard, there are still significant gender balance disparities among the Member States' judiciary and judicial staff, particularly,but not exclusively, in relation to the following aspects: the proportion of female judges in higher levels of the judiciary, transparency in appointments, reconciliation between work and non-work responsibilities and the existence of mentoring practices. The Programme should therefore support training activities seeking to address those disparities. Such activities could, for instance, be tailored for female professionals within Member States' judiciaries and judicial staff or, where adequate, target both female and male professionals, in an effort to raise awareness among all relevant staff.
Amendment    31 Proposal for a regulation Recital 16 c (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(16 c)  The Union’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. That also includes the lack of protection and support regarding victims of sex trafficking, refugee and migrant women, LGBTIQ-people and persons with disabilities.
Amendment    32 Proposal for a regulation Recital 17
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(17)  The Commission should ensure overall consistency, complementarity and synergies with the work of Union bodies, offices and agencies, such as EUROJUST, EU-LISa and the European Public Prosecutor Office, and should take stock of the work of other national and international actors in the areas covered by the Programme.	(17)  The Commission should ensure overall consistency, complementarity and synergies with the work of Union bodies, offices and agencies, such as EUROJUST, FRA, OLAF, EU-LISa and the European Public Prosecutor Office, in order to take stock of the work of other national and international actors in the areas covered by the Programme and recommend improvements, when necessary.
Amendment    33 Proposal for a regulation Recital 18
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(18)  It is necessary to ensure the European added value of all actions and activities carried out within the Programme, their complementarity to Member States’ activities, and their consistency with other Union activities. In order to ensure efficient allocation of funds from the general budget of the Union, consistency, complementarity and synergies should be sought between funding programmes supporting policy areas with close links to each other, in particular within the Justice, Rights and Values Fund – and thus with the Rights and Values Programme- and between the Programme and the Single Market Programme, Border management and Security, in particular the Asylum and Migration ('AMIF') and the Internal Security Funds, Strategic Infrastructure in particular the Digital Europe Programme, the Erasmus+ Programme, the Framework Programme for research and innovation, the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance, and the LIFE Regulation13 .	(18)  It is necessary to ensure the viability, visibility, the core principle of European added value, and sound financial management in the implementation of all actions and activities carried out within the Justice Programme, their complementarity to Member States’ activities, and their consistency with other Union activities. In order to ensure efficient and performance-based allocation of funds from the general budget of the Union, consistency, complementarity and synergies should be sought between funding programmes supporting policy areas with close links to each other, in particular within the Justice, Rights and Values Fund – and thus with the Rights and Values Programme- and between the Programme and the Single Market Programme, Border management and Security, in particular the Asylum and Migration ('AMIF') and the Internal Security Funds, Strategic Infrastructure in particular the Digital Europe Programme, the European Social Fund+, the Erasmus+ Programme, the Framework Programme for research and innovation, the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance, and the LIFE Regulation13. The implementation of the Justice Programme should be without prejudice to, and complemented by, Union legislation and policies regarding the protection of the Union’s budget in case of generalised deficiencies as regards the rule of law in Member States;.
__________________	__________________
13 Regulation (EU) No 1293/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2013 on the establishment of a Programme for the Environment and Climate Action (LIFE) and repealing Regulation (EC) No 614/2007 Text with EEA relevance	13 Regulation (EU) No 1293/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2013 on the establishment of a Programme for the Environment and Climate Action (LIFE) and repealing Regulation (EC) No 614/2007 Text with EEA relevance
Amendment    34 Proposal for a regulation Recital 19 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(19 a)  Mechanisms to ensure a link between Union funding policies and Union values 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 relating to Union values. 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. In order to ensure uniform implementation and in view of the importance of the financial effects of measures being imposed, implementing powers should be conferred on the Council which should act on the basis of a Commission proposal. To facilitate the adoption of decisions which are required to ensure effective action, reversed qualified majority voting should be used.
Amendment    35 Proposal for a regulation Recital 19 b (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(19 b)  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    36 Proposal for a regulation Recital 19 c (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(19 c)  Improving implementation and the quality of spending should constitute guiding principles for achieving the objectives of the programme while ensuring optimal use of the financial resources.
Amendment    37 Proposal for a regulation Recital 20
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(20)  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.	(20)  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 on 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 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. Co-funding criteria should take into account volunteer work.
Amendment    38 Proposal for a regulation Recital 21
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(21)  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.	(21)  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 the desired 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 financing not linked to costs as referred to in Article 125(1) of the Financial Regulation.
Amendment    39 Proposal for a regulation Recital 22
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(22)  In accordance with the Financial Regulation, Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council15, Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2988/9516 Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/9617 and Council Regulation (EU) 2017/193918 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 Council19 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.	(22)  In accordance with the Financial Regulation, Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council15, Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2988/9516 Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/9617 and Council Regulation (EU) 2017/193918 the financial interests of the Union are to be protected through proportionate measures, including complete transparency of the Programme financing and selection procedures, 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) should 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) should 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 Council19 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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15 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.	15 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.
16 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).	16 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).
17 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).	17 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).
18 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).	18 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).
19 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).	19 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    40 Proposal for a regulation Recital 23
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(23)  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.	(23)  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, human rights bodies and networks, including national institutions responsible for the protection of human rights in each Member State, bodies and networks responsible for non-discrimination and equality policies, ombudsmen, the European Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA), the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) as well as the European Court of Auditors to comprehensively exert their respective competences, and enhance their synergies and cooperation. It should be possible to include third countries especially whenever their involvement fosters the objectives of the programme, taking note that it is in accordance with the general principles and general terms and conditions for the participation of those countries in Union programmes established in the respective framework agreements and Association Council decisions or similar agreements;
Amendment    41 Proposal for a regulation Recital 24 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(24 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 of the financial interests of the Union. It should complement the Justice programme the role of which is different, namely to further support the development of a European Area of Justice that is based on the rule of law and mutual trust, and to ensure people can enjoy their rights.
Amendment    42 Proposal for a regulation Recital 25
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(25)  Pursuant to [reference to be updated as appropriate according to a new decision on OCTs: Article 94 of Council Decision 2013/755/EU1], persons and entities established in overseas countries and territories 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.	(25)  Pursuant to [reference to be updated as appropriate according to a new decision on OCTs: Article 94 of Council Decision 2013/755/EU1], persons and entities established in overseas countries and territories 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. It is essential that the Programme ensure that such persons and entities are sufficiently informed about their eligibility for funding.
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1 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).	1 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    43 Proposal for a regulation Recital 25 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(25 a)  Based on their importance and relevance, this Programme should contribute to fulfilling the commitment of the Union and its Member States to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
Amendment    44 Proposal for a regulation Recital 27
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(27)  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.	(27)  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 Programme beneficiaries. These requirements, where possible, should include measurable indicators, as a basis for evaluating the effects of the Programme on the ground.
Amendment    45 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 of the Programme, the budget for the period 1 January 2021 – 31 December 2027, the forms of Union funding and the rules for providing such funding.
Amendment    46 Proposal for a regulation Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
1.  ‘Judiciary and judicial staff’ means judges, prosecutors and court staff, as well as other justice professionals associated with the judiciary, such as lawyers, notaries, bailiffs or enforcement officers, insolvency practitioners, mediators, court interpreters and translators, court experts, prison staff and probation officers.	1.  ‘Judiciary and judicial staff’ means judges, prosecutors and court staff, as well as other justice professionals associated with the judiciary, such as defence and prosecution lawyers, notaries, bailiffs or enforcement officers, insolvency practitioners, mediators, court interpreters and translators, court experts, prison staff and probation officers.
Amendment    47 Proposal for a regulation Article 3 – paragraph 1
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
1.  The Programme has the general objective of contributing to the further development of a European area of justice based on the rule of law, on mutual recognition and mutual trust;	1.  The Programme has the general objective of contributing to the further development of a European area of freedom, security and justice based on the rule of law, including the independence of judges and impartiality of justice, on mutual recognition, mutual trust and cross-border cooperation, thereby also contributing to the development of democracy, rule of law and fundamental rights;
Amendment    48 Proposal for a regulation Article 3 – paragraph 2 – introductory part
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
2.  The Programme has the following specific objectives, as further detailed in Annex I:	2.  The Programme has the following specific objectives:
Amendment    49 Proposal for a regulation Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point a
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(a)  to facilitate and support judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters, and to promote the rule of law including by supporting the efforts to improve the effectiveness of national justice systems and the enforcement of decision;	(a)  within a framework of democracy and respect of fundamental rights, to facilitate and support judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters, including cooperation beyond Union borders whenever Union law has extraterritorial applications, to strengthen access to justice for natural and legal persons and to promote the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary, including by supporting the efforts to improve the effectiveness of national justice systems, the adequate enforcement of judicial decisions and the protection of victims;
Amendment    50 Proposal for a regulation Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point b
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(b)  to support and promote judicial training, with a view to fostering a common legal, judicial and rule of law culture;	(b)  to support and promote national and transnational judicial training, including legal terminology training, with a view to fostering a common legal, judicial and rule of law culture, as well as the consistent and effective implementation of the Union’s legal instruments on mutual recognition and procedural safeguards. Such training shall be gender sensitive, take into account the specific needs of children and persons with disabilities, be victim-oriented, where applicable, and cover, in particular, civil and criminal law and, where applicable, administrative law, fundamental rights as well as the fight against terrorism and radicalisation;
Amendment    51 Proposal for a regulation Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point c
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(c)  to facilitate effective access to justice for all and effective redress, including by electronic means, by promoting efficient civil and criminal procedures and by promoting and supporting the rights of victims of crime as well as the procedural rights of suspects and accused persons in criminal proceedings.	(c)  to facilitate effective and non-discriminatory access to justice for all, with the emphasis on inequalities and discrimination on any ground, such as the grounds listed in Article 21 of the Charter, and effective redress, including by electronic means (e-justice), by promoting efficient civil, and criminal procedures and, where applicable, administrative procedures, and by promoting and supporting the rights of all victims of crime as well as the procedural rights of suspects and accused persons in criminal proceedings, giving particular attention to children and women.
Amendment    52 Proposal for a regulation Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point c a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(ca)  to promote the practical application of drug-related research, to support civil society organisations, to expand the knowledge base in the field, and develop innovative methods of addressing the phenomena of new psychoactive substances and trafficking in human beings and goods.
Amendment    53 Proposal for a regulation Article 3 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	2 a.  In the implementation of all of its actions, the Programme shall seek to support and promote, as a horizontal objective, the protection of equal rights and the principle of non-discrimination enshrined in Article 21 of the Charter.
Amendment    54 Proposal for a regulation Article 4 – 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 [305 000 000] in current prices.	1.  Within the meaning of [reference to be updated as appropriate according to the new inter-institutional agreement] point 17 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management, the financial envelope for the implementation of the Programme for the period 2021 – 2027, representing the prime reference for the budgetary authority during the annual budgetary procedure, shall be EUR 316 000 000 in 2018 prices (EUR 356 000 000 in current prices).
Amendment    55 Proposal for a regulation Article 4 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	2 a.  The budget allocated for actions linked to the promotion of gender equality shall be indicated annually;
Amendment    56 Proposal for a regulation Article 4 – paragraph 4
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
4.  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.	4.  Resources allocated to Member States under shared management may, at their request, or at the request of the Commission, 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 concerned.
Amendment    57 Proposal for a regulation Article 4 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	Article 4 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 facilitating, supporting and enhancing the democratic dialogue in the Member State in question and to addressing the problem of insufficient compliance with the values enshrined in Article 2 TEU.
	2.   The Commission shall earmark up to 5% of the amounts referred to in Article 6(2)(-a) to the values support mechanism referred to in paragraph 1 of this Article. At the end of every budgetary year, the Commission shall transfer any non-committed funds under this mechanism to support other actions which fall under the objectives of the Programme.
	3.   The Commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with Article 16 to trigger the values support mechanism referred to in paragraph 1 of this Article. The activation of the mechanism shall be based on a comprehensive, regular and evidence-based monitoring and evaluation of the situation in all Member States as regards democracy, rule of law and fundamental rights.
Amendment    58 Proposal for a regulation Article 6 – 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 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. It may use lump sums, unit costs, flat rates, cascading grants and financial support to third parties. Co-funding shall be accepted in kind, and may be waived in cases of limited complementary funding.
Amendment    59 Proposal for a regulation Article 7
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Article 7	Article 7
Type of actions	Type of actions
Actions contributing to the achievement of a specific objective specified in Article 3 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 3 may receive funding under this Regulation. In particular, the following activities shall be eligible for funding:
	(1)  awareness-raising, dissemination of information to improve the knowledge of Union policies and of Union law including substantive and procedural law, of judicial cooperation instruments, of the relevant case-law of the Court of Justice of the European Union, and of comparative law and of European and international standards, with a special focus on increasing the understanding of multi-, cross- and interdisciplinary areas of law, such as trade and human rights, and on how to facilitate extraterritorial litigation;
	(2)  mutual learning through exchange of good practices among stakeholders, including civil society organisations, to improve knowledge and mutual understanding of the civil and criminal law and the legal and judicial systems of the Member States, including the rule of law and access to justice, and through enhancing mutual trust as well as exchange of good practices relating to a child-friendly justice and the promotion and incorporation of the gender perspective throughout the judicial system;
	(3)  training courses for judges, lawyers, prosecutors and police and other people working in the justice system about the challenges and obstacles experienced by people in a vulnerable situation including children, ethnic minorities, LGBTI people, persons with disabilities, victims of gender-based and other forms of interpersonal violence and victims of trafficking, and about how to ensure victims of crimes are properly protected;
	(4)  analytical and monitoring activities to improve the knowledge and understanding of potential obstacles to the smooth functioning of a European area of justice and to improve the implementation of Union law and policies in the Member States, also taking into account the effects of Union law on third countries;
	(5)  activities to improve the smooth functioning of a European area of justice, including by monitoring democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights in Member States and research on how to eliminate obstacles to universal, non-discriminatory and effective access to justice for all;
	(6)  initiatives addressing gender balance disparities among the Member States' judiciaries and judicial staff through training either tailored to female professionals, or targeting both female and male professional, raising awareness on issues like the low proportion of female judges in higher levels of the judiciary or the need for transparency and objective criteria during appointment procedures;
	(7)  training relevant stakeholders, including civil society organisations active in the defence of victims of crimes and in bringing forward redress actions, to improve the knowledge of Union policies and law, including substantive and procedural law, fundamental rights, support and protection of victims of crime, use of collective redress and universal jurisdiction, the use of Union judicial cooperation instruments, the relevant case-law of the Court of Justice of the European Union, legal language and of comparative law;
	(8)  multidisciplinary training of judicial staff and other relevant stakeholders in the field of penitentiary law, detention and prison management, in order to facilitate the dissemination of best practices;
	(9)  multidisciplinary training of judicial staff and other relevant stakeholders in the field of juvenile justice, in order to prepare and promote the proper implementation of Directive (EU) 2016/800 on procedural safeguards for children who are suspects or accused person in criminal proceedings;
	(10)  information and Communication Technology (ICT) as well as e-justice tools development and maintenance to improve the efficiency of judicial systems and their cooperation by means of information and communication technology, including the cross-border interoperability of systems and applications, privacy and data protection;
	(11)  developing capacity of key European level networks and European judicial networks, including networks established by Union law to ensure the effective application and enforcement of Union law, to promote and further develop Union law, policy goals and strategies in the areas of the programme;
	(12)  structural support for civil society organisations and other relevant stakeholders active in the areas covered by the Programme and capacity building and training of legal experts working for those organisations, as well as for particular activities of such organisations including advocacy, networking activities, litigation relating to violations of democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights, public mobilisation and education, and the provision of relevant services;
	(13)  enhancing knowledge of the programme and dissemination, transferability and transparency of its results and fostering citizen outreach, including by setting up and supporting independent programme desks/national contact network;
	(14)  benchmarks studies, research, analyses and surveys, evaluations, impact assessment, the elaboration and publication of guides, reports and educational material.
Amendment    60 Proposal for a regulation Article 9 – 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    61 Proposal for a regulation Article 9 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 2 – point a
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(a)  they have been assessed in a call for proposals under the Programme;	(a)  they have been properly assessed in a call for proposals under the Programme;
Amendment    62 Proposal for a regulation Article 10 – paragraph 3
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
3.  An operating grant may be awarded without a call for proposals to the European Judicial Training Network to cover expenditure associated with its permanent work programme.	3.  An operating grant shall be awarded without a call for proposals to the European Judicial Training Network to cover expenditure associated with its permanent work programme.
Amendment    63 Proposal for a regulation Article 11 – 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 17.	2.  The work programme shall be adopted by the Commission by means of a delegated act. That delegated act shall be adopted in accordance with Article 14.
Amendment    64 Proposal for a regulation Article 11 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	Article 11 a
	Civil Dialogue
	1.   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, including civil society organisations active in the defence of victims of crimes and in bringing forward redress actions, with in order to exchange experience and good practices, and to discuss the implementation of the Programme’s priorities, dissemination of results and policy developments within the fields and objectives covered by the Programme and related fields.
	2.   The Commission shall also consult the Civil Dialogue Group regarding the preparation and implementation of the work programme referred to in Article 11.
Amendment    65 Proposal for a regulation Article 12 – 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 3 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 3 are set out in Annex II. The data collected for monitoring and reporting shall, where applicable, be disaggregated by gender, age and staff category.
Amendment    66 Proposal for a regulation Article 12 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	2 a.  The monitoring shall also provide a means of assessing the way in which gender equality and non-discrimination have been addressed across the Programme's actions.
Amendment    67 Proposal for a regulation Article 12 – 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 correct data for monitoring programme implementation and results are collected efficiently, effectively, and in an accurate and 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 adequate resources and staff to meet reporting requirements.
Amendment    68 Proposal for a regulation Article 13 – 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 carried out in a timely and well documented manner to feed into the decision-making process and to monitor the implementation of actions carried out under the Programme and the achievement of the objectives set out in Article 3. All evaluations shall be gender sensitive and include a detailed analysis of the programme budget dedicated to gender equality-related activities.
Amendment    69 Proposal for a regulation Article 13 – paragraph 2
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
2.  The interim evaluation of the Programme shall be carried out 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.	2.  The interim evaluation of the Programme shall be carried out once there is sufficient information available about the implementation of the Programme, but no later than three years after the start of the programme implementation.
Amendment    70 Proposal for a regulation Article 13 – paragraph 3
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
3.  At the end of the implementation of the Programme, but no later than four years after the end of the period specified in Article 1, a final evaluation of the Programme shall be carried out by the Commission.	3.  At the end of the implementation of the Programme, but no later than three years after the end of the period specified in Article 1, a final evaluation of the Programme shall be carried out by the Commission.
Amendment    71 Proposal for a regulation Article 13 – paragraph 3 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	3 a.  The interim and final evaluation of the Programme shall assess, inter alia:
	(a)   the perceived impact of the Programme on access to justice based on qualitative and quantitative data collected at European level;
	(b)   the number and quality of instruments and tools developed through actions funded by the Programme;
	(c)   the European added value of the Programme;
	(d)   the level of funding in relation to the outcomes achieved;
	(e)   potential administrative, organisational and/or structural obstacles to the smoother, more effective and efficient implementation of the Programme.
Amendment    72 Proposal for a regulation Article 14 – 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 group of experts consulted shall be gender balanced.
Amendment    73 Proposal for a regulation Article 16 – 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 on the European added value of the Programme 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    74 Proposal for a regulation Article 17 – paragraph 1
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
1.  The Commission shall be assisted by a committee. This committee shall be a committee within the meaning of Regulation (EU) No 182/2011.	1.  The Commission shall be assisted by a committee. This committee shall be a committee within the meaning of Regulation (EU) No 182/2011, and shall be assisted by the relevant civil society and human rights organisations. Gender balance and appropriate representation of minority and other excluded groups in the Committee shall be safeguarded.
Amendment    75 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 3 (2) will be pursued in particular through support to the following activities:
1.  awareness raising, dissemination of information to improve the knowledge of Union policies and of Union law including substantive and procedural law, of judicial cooperation instruments, of the relevant case-law of the Court of Justice of the European Union, and of comparative law and of European and international standards;
2.  mutual learning through exchange of good practices among stakeholders to improve knowledge and mutual understanding of the civil and criminal law and the legal and judicial systems of the Member States, including the rule of law, and enhancing mutual trust;
3.  analytical and monitoring activities25 to improve the knowledge and understanding of potential obstacles to the smooth functioning of a European area of justice and to improve the implementation of Union law and policies in the Member States;
4.  training relevant stakeholders to improve the knowledge of Union policies and Union law including inter alia substantive and procedural law, the use of EU judicial cooperation instruments, the relevant case-law of the Court of Justice of the European Union, legal language and of comparative law.
5.  information and Communication Technology (ICT) tools development and maintenance to improve the efficiency of judicial systems and their cooperation by means of information and communication technology, including the cross-border interoperability of systems and applications.
6.  developing capacity of key European level networks and European judicial networks, including networks established by Union law to ensure the effective application and enforcement of Union law, to promote and further develop Union law, policy goals and strategies in the areas of the programme, as well as supporting civil society organisations active in the areas covered by the Programme.
7.  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.
__________________
25 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    76 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 qualitative and quantitative 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 and to maximising the effectiveness of justice systems. To that end, while respecting rights related to privacy and data protection, data will be collected and, where applicable, disaggregated by gender, age and staff category as regards the following set of key indicators:
Amendment    77 Proposal for a regulation Annex II – paragraph 1 – table
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
Number of members of the judiciary and judicial staff who participated in training activities (including staff exchanges, study visits, workshops and seminars) funded by the Programme, including by the operating grant of the EJTN	Number of members of the judiciary and judicial staff who participated in training activities (including staff exchanges, study visits, workshops and seminars) funded by the Programme, including by the operating grant of the EJTN
	Number of staff and members of civil society organisations who participated in training activities
Number of exchanges of information in the European Criminal Records Information System (ECRIS)	Number of exchanges of information in the European Criminal Records Information System (ECRIS)
	Number of cases and activities, and level of output of cross-border cooperation, including cooperation by means of information technology tools and procedures established at Union level
Number of hits on the e-Justice portal / pages addressing the need for information on cross-border civil cases
Number of people reached by:	Number of people reached by:
(i)   mutual learning and exchange of good practices activities;	(i)   mutual learning and exchange of good practices activities;
(ii)   awareness raising, information and dissemination activities	(ii)   awareness raising, information and dissemination activities
	(iia)  capacity-building activities targeted at civil society organisations;
	(iib)  activities related to providing people with information on access to justice;
	(iic)  activities for judges on litigation challenges and how to apply private international law and Union law in cross border/multidisciplinary cases;
	(iid)  awareness-raising activities funded by the Programme.
	Geographical coverage of the activities funded by the Programme
	Participants' assessment of the activities in which they participated and of their expected sustainability

• [1]    Text adopted, P8_TA(2018)0075.

OPINION of the Committee on Budgets (5.11.2018  )

for the Committee on Legal Affairs and 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 Justice programme
(COM(2018)0384 – C8‑0235/2018 – 2018/0208(COD))

Rapporteur for opinion: Esteban González Pons

AMENDMENTS

The Committee on Budgets calls on the Committee on Legal Affairs and the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs, as the committees 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 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; reiterates that a stronger and a more ambitious Union can only be achieved if it is provided with reinforced financial means; calls, therefore, for providing continuous support to existing policies, for increasing resources to the Union’ flagship programmes, and for additional responsibilities to be matched with additional financial means;
	_____________
	1a Text adopted, P8_TA(2018)0075
Amendment    2 Proposal for a regulation Recital 19 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(19 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    3 Proposal for a regulation Recital 19 b (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(19 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    4 Proposal for a regulation Recital 24 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(24 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 of the financial interests of the Union. It should complement the Justice programme whose role is different, namely to further support the development of a European Area of Justice based on the rule of law and mutual trust and ensure people can enjoy their rights.
Amendment    5 Proposal for a regulation Article 4 – 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 [305 000 000] in current prices.	1.  Within the meaning of [reference to be updated as appropriate according to the new inter-institutional agreement: point 17 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 2 December 2013 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline, on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management], the financial envelope for the implementation of the Programme for the period 2021 – 2027, representing the prime reference for the budgetary authority during the annual budgetary procedure, shall be EUR 316 000 000 in 2018 prices (EUR 356 000 000 in current prices).
Justification
The financial envelope is proposed to be amended in line with the EP resolutions of 14 March and 30 May on the next MFF, based on a preliminary technical breakdown per programme that could be subject to further adjustments, while respecting the overall EP position as set out in those resolutions and the overall level of the 1.3% EU-27 GNI.
Amendment    6 Proposal for a regulation Article 9 – 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    7 Proposal for a regulation Article 16 – 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.

PROCEDURE – COMMITTEE ASKED FOR OPINION

Title	Justice programme
References	COM(2018)0384 – C8-0235/2018 – 2018/0208(COD)
Committees responsible        Date announced in plenary	JURI 14.6.2018	LIBE 14.6.2018
Opinion by        Date announced in plenary	BUDG 14.6.2018
Rapporteur        Date appointed	Esteban González Pons 28.6.2018
Rule 55 – Joint committee procedure        Date announced in plenary	5.7.2018
Discussed in committee	25.9.2018
Date adopted	5.11.2018
Result of final vote	+: –: 0:	24 3 1
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

3	-
ECR	Bernd Kölmel
ENF	André Elissen, Marco Zanni

1	0
NI	Eleftherios Synadinos

Key to symbols:

+  :  in favour

-  :  against

0  :  abstention

OPINION of the Committee on Budgetary Control (19.11.2018)

for the Committee on Legal Affairs and 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 Justice programme
(COM(2018)0384 – C8‑0235/2018 – 2018/0208(COD))

Rapporteur for opinion: Dennis de Jong

AMENDMENTS

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

Amendment    1 Proposal for a regulation Recital 2
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(2)  These rights and values must continue to be promoted and enforced, shared among the citizens and peoples within the Union and be at the heart of Europe’s societies, Therefore, a new Justice, Rights and Values Fund, comprising the Rights and Values and the Justice programmes shall be created in the Union 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 a part of the new Fund, the Rights and Values Programme will bring together the 2014-2020 Rights, Equality and Citizenship Programme established by Regulation (EU) No 1381/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council10 and the Europe for Citizens programme established by Regulation (EU) No 390/2014 of the Council11 . The Justice programme (hereafter the 'Programme') will continue to support the development of an integrated European justice area and cross-border cooperation, in continuity with the 2014-2020 Justice Programme established by Regulation (EU) No 1381/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council12 (hereafter 'the predecessor Programme').	(2)  These rights and values must continue to be actively promoted and enforced, shared among the citizens and peoples within the Union and be at the heart of Europe’s societies, Therefore, a new Justice, Rights and Values Fund, comprising the Rights and Values and the Justice programmes shall be created in the Union budget. At a time where European societies are confronted with extremism, radicalism, polarisation and divisions, it is more important than ever to promote, strengthen and defend justice, rights and common 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 a part of the new Fund, the Rights and Values Programme will bring together the 2014-2020 Rights, Equality and Citizenship Programme established by Regulation (EU) No 1381/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council10 and the Europe for Citizens programme established by Regulation (EU) No 390/2014 of the Council11 . The Justice programme (hereafter the 'Programme') will continue to support the development of an integrated European justice area and cross-border cooperation, in continuity with the 2014-2020 Justice Programme established by Regulation (EU) No 1381/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council12 (hereafter 'the predecessor Programme').
_________________	_________________
10 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)	10 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)
11 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)	11 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)
12 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).	12 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 our rights-based, equal, inclusive and democratic society. That includes a vibrant civil society, encouraging people’s democratic, civic and social participation and to fostering the rich diversity of European society, also based on our common history and memory. Article 11 of the EU Treaty 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 our rights- and freedoms-based, equal, inclusive and democratic society. That includes stimulating a vibrant civil society, encouraging people’s democratic, civic and social participation, protecting independent media, and fostering the rich diversity of European society, also based on our common history and memory. Article 11 of the EU Treaty 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    3 Proposal for a regulation Recital 4
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(4)  The Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) provides for the creation of an area of freedom, security and justice, with respect for fundamental rights and the different legal systems and traditions of the Member States. To that end, the Union may adopt measures to develop judicial cooperation in civil matters and judicial cooperation in criminal matters and to promote and support the action of Member States in the field of crime prevention. Respect for fundamental rights as well as for common principles and values, such as non-discrimination, gender equality, effective access to justice for all, the rule of law and a well-functioning independent judicial system shall be ensured in the further development of a European area of justice.	(4)  The Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) provides for the creation of an area of freedom, security and justice, with respect for fundamental rights and the different legal systems and traditions of the Member States. To that end, the Union may adopt measures to develop judicial cooperation in civil matters and judicial cooperation in criminal matters and to promote and support the action of Member States in the field of crime prevention. Respect for fundamental rights as well as for common principles and values, such as non-discrimination, gender equality, equal and effective access to justice for all, the rule of law and a well-functioning independent judicial system shall be ensured in the further development of a European area of justice.
Amendment    4 Proposal for a regulation Recital 5
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(5)  Financing should remain one of the important tools for the successful implementation of the ambitious goals set by the Treaties. They should be attained inter alia by establishing a flexible and effective Justice Programme which should facilitate planning and implementation of those goals.	(5)  Financing is one of the most important tools for the successful implementation of the ambitious goals set by the Treaties. They should be attained inter alia by establishing a flexible and effective Justice Programme which should facilitate planning and implementation of those goals, taking into account which activities bring the highest Union added value, using key performance indicators, whenever possible.
Amendment    5 Proposal for a regulation Recital 6
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(6)  For the gradual establishment of an area of freedom, security and justice, the Union is to adopt measures relating to judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters based on the principle of mutual recognition of judgments and judicial decisions, which is a cornerstone of judicial cooperation within the Union since the Tampere European Council of 15 and 16 October 1999. Mutual recognition requires a high level of mutual trust among Member States. Measures to approximate the laws of the Member States in several areas have been adopted to facilitate mutual recognition and foster mutual trust. A well-functioning area of justice, where obstacles in cross-border judicial proceedings and access to justice in cross-border situations are eliminated, is also key to ensure economic growth.	(6)  For the gradual establishment of an area of freedom, security and justice for all, the Union is to adopt measures relating to judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters based on the principle of mutual recognition of judgments and judicial decisions, which is a cornerstone of judicial cooperation within the Union since the Tampere European Council of 15 and 16 October 1999. Mutual recognition requires a high level of mutual trust among Member States. Measures to approximate the laws of the Member States in several areas have been adopted to facilitate mutual recognition and foster mutual trust. A well-functioning area of justice, where obstacles in cross-border judicial proceedings and access to justice in cross-border situations are eliminated, is also key to ensure economic growth and further integration.
Amendment    6 Proposal for a regulation Recital 7
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(7)  Respect for the rule of law is essential for a high level of mutual trust in the area of justice and home affairs, in particular for effective judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters which is based on mutual recognition. The rule of law is one of the common values enshrined in Article TEU 2, and the principle of effective judicial protection provided for in Articles 19(1) TEU and 47 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights is a concrete expression of the rule of law. Promoting the rule of law by supporting the efforts to improve the independence, quality and efficiency of national justice systems enhances the mutual trust which is indispensable for judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters.	(7)  Respect for the rule of law is essential for a high level of mutual trust in the area of freedom, security and justice and home affairs, in particular for effective judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters which is based on mutual recognition. The rule of law is one of the common values enshrined in Article TEU 2, and the principle of effective judicial protection provided for in Articles 19(1) TEU and 47 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights is a concrete expression of the rule of law. Promoting the rule of law by supporting the efforts to improve the independence, transparency, accountability, quality and efficiency of national justice systems enhances the mutual trust which is indispensable for judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters.
Amendment    7 Proposal for a regulation Recital 8
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(8)  Pursuant to Articles 81(2)(h) and 82(1)(c) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU, the Union shall support the training of the judiciary and judicial staff as a tool to improve judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters based on the principle of mutual recognition of judgments and of judicial decisions. Training of justice professionals is an important tool to develop a common understanding of how best to uphold the rule of law. It contributes to the building of the European area of justice by creating a common judicial culture among justice professionals of the Member States. It is essential to ensure the correct and coherent application of law in the Union and mutual trust between justice professionals in cross-border proceedings. The training activities supported by the Programme should be based on sound training needs’ assessments, use state of the art training methodology, include cross-border events gathering justice professionals of different Member States, comprise active learning and networking elements and be sustainable.	(8)  Pursuant to Articles 81(2)(h) and 82(1)(c) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU, the Union shall support the training of the judiciary and judicial staff as a tool to improve judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters based on the principle of mutual recognition of judgments and of judicial decisions. Harmonised training of justice professionals is an important tool to develop a common understanding of how best to uphold the rule of law. It contributes to the building of the European area of justice by creating a common judicial culture among justice professionals of the Member States. It is essential to ensure the correct and coherent application of law in the Union and mutual trust and understanding between justice professionals in cross-border proceedings. The training activities supported by the Programme should be based on sound training needs’ assessments, use state of the art training methodology, include cross-border events gathering justice professionals of different Member States, comprise active learning and networking elements and be sustainable.
Amendment    8 Proposal for a regulation Recital 9
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(9)  Judicial training can involve different actors, such as Member States’ legal, judicial and administrative authorities, academic institutions, national bodies responsible for judicial training, European-level training organisations or networks, or networks of court coordinators of Union law. Bodies and entities pursuing a general European interest in the field of training of the judiciary, such as the European Judicial Training Network ('EJTN'), the Academy of European Law ('ERA'), the European Network of Councils for the Judiciary ('ENCJ'), the Association of the Councils of State and Supreme Administrative Jurisdictions of the European Union ('ACA-Europe'), the Network of the Presidents of Supreme Judicial Courts of the European Union ('RPCSJUE') and the European Institute of Public Administration ('EIPA'), should continue to play their role in promoting training programmes with a genuine European dimension for the judiciary and judicial staff, and could therefore be granted adequate financial support in accordance with the procedures and the criteria set out in the annual work programmes adopted by the Commission pursuant to this Regulation.	(9)  Judicial training can involve different actors, such as Member States’ legal, judicial and administrative authorities, academic institutions, national bodies responsible for judicial training, European-level training organisations or networks, or networks of court coordinators of Union law. Bodies and entities pursuing a general European interest in the field of training of the judiciary, such as the European Judicial Training Network ('EJTN'),, the European Network of Councils for the Judiciary ('ENCJ'), the Association of the Councils of State and Supreme Administrative Jurisdictions of the European Union ('ACA-Europe'), and the Network of the Presidents of Supreme Judicial Courts of the European Union ('RPCSJUE') , should continue to play their role in coordinating and promoting quality national training programmes with a genuine European dimension for the judiciary and judicial staff, and could therefore be granted adequate financial support in accordance with the procedures and the criteria set out in the annual work programmes adopted by the Commission pursuant to this Regulation. In addition, specialised academic institutions could also contribute to these training programmes and should receive adequate funding for their activities within this respect.
Amendment    9 Proposal for a regulation Recital 12
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(12)  Pursuant to Article 3(3) of the TEU, Article 24 of the Charter and the 1989 United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, the Programme should support the protection of the rights of the child, and should mainstream the promotion of the rights of the child in the implementation of all of its actions.	(12)  Pursuant to Article 3(3) of the TEU, Article 24 of the Charter and the 1989 United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, the Programme should support the protection of the rights of the child, and should mainstream the promotion of the rights of the child in the implementation of all of its actions. For this purpose, particular attention should be paid to actions aimed at the protection of children´s rights in the context of criminal and civil justice, including the protection of children accompanying parents in detention and children of imprisoned parents. Appropriate support should also be considered in favour of training activities aimed at the proper implementation of Directive (EU) 2016/800 of the European Parliament and of the Council1a.
	_________________
	1a Directive (EU) 2016/800 of the European Parliament and of the Council of May 2016 on procedural safeguards for children who are suspects or accused persons in criminal proceedings (EUT OJ L 132, 21.5.2016, p. 1).
Amendment    10 Proposal for a regulation Recital 13
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(13)  The 2014-2020 Programme has enabled training activities on Union law, in particular on the scope and application of the Charter, targeted at members of the judiciary and other legal practitioners. In its conclusions of 12 October 2017 on the application of the Charter in 2016, the Council recalled the importance of awareness-raising on the application of the Charter, including among policymakers, legal practitioners and the rights holders themselves, at national as well as at Union level. Therefore, to mainstream fundamental rights in a consistent way, it is necessary to extend financial support to awareness –raising activities for other public authorities than judicial authorities and legal practitioners.	(13)  The 2014-2020 Programme has enabled training activities on Union law, in particular on the scope and application of the Charter, targeted at members of the judiciary and other legal practitioners. In its conclusions of 12 October 2017 on the application of the Charter in 2016,the Council recalled the importance of awareness-raising on the application of the Charter, including among policymakers, legal practitioners and the rights holders themselves, at national as well as at Union level.
Amendment    11 Proposal for a regulation Recital 14
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(14)  Pursuant to Article 67 TFEU, the Union should constitute an area of freedom, security and justice with respect for fundamental rights, to which access to justice is instrumental. In order to facilitate effective access to justice, and with a view to foster the mutual trust which is indispensable for the good functioning of the area of freedom, security and justice, it is necessary to extend financial support to activities of other authorities than judicial authorities and legal practitioners, as well as of civil society organisations, which contribute to these objectives.	(14)  Pursuant to Article 67 TFEU, the Union should constitute an area of freedom, security and justice with respect for fundamental rights, to which access to justice is instrumental. In order to facilitate equal and effective access to justice for all, and with a view to foster the mutual trust which is indispensable for the good functioning of the area of freedom, security and justice, it is necessary to extend financial support to activities of other authorities than judicial authorities and legal practitioners, including civil society organisations and academia, which contribute to these objectives.
Amendment    12 Proposal for a regulation Recital 16
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(16)  Actions covered by this Regulation should contribute to the creation of a European area of justice, increasing cross-border cooperation and networking and achieving the correct, coherent and consistent application of Union law. Funding activities should also contribute to a common understanding of the Union’s values, the rule of law, to better knowledge of Union law and policies, to sharing know-how and best practices in using judicial cooperation instruments by all concerned stakeholders, as well as to a proliferation of interoperable digital solutions underpinning seamless and efficient cross-border cooperation, and should provide a sound analytical basis to support the development, enforcement and proper implementation of Union law and policies. Union intervention allows for those actions to be pursued consistently across the Union and brings economies of scale. Moreover, the Union is in a better position than Member States to address cross-border situations and to provide a European platform for mutual learning.	(16)  Actions covered by this Regulation should contribute to the creation of a European area of justice, increasing cross-border cooperation and networking and achieving the correct, coherent and consistent application of Union law. Funding activities should also contribute to a common understanding of the Union’s values, the rule of law, to better knowledge of Union law and policies, to sharing know-how and best practices in using judicial cooperation instruments by all concerned stakeholders, as well as to promote interoperable digital solutions underpinning seamless and efficient cross-border cooperation, and should provide a sound analytical basis to support the development, enforcement and proper implementation of Union law and policies. Union financial intervention allows for those actions to be pursued consistently across the Union and brings economies of scale. Moreover, the Union is in a better position than Member States to address cross-border situations and to provide a European platform for mutual learning.
Amendment    13 Proposal for a regulation Recital 17
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(17)  The Commission should ensure overall consistency, complementarity and synergies with the work of Union bodies, offices and agencies, such as EUROJUST, EU-LISa and the European Public Prosecutor Office, and should take stock of the work of other national and international actors in the areas covered by the Programme.	(17)  The Commission should ensure overall consistency, complementarity and synergies with the work of Union bodies, offices and agencies, such as EUROJUST, EU-LISa, the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) and the European Public Prosecutor Office, and should take stock of the work of other national and international actors in the areas covered by the Programme.
Amendment    14 Proposal for a regulation Recital 18
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(18)  It is necessary to ensure the European added value of all actions and activities carried out within the Programme, their complementarity to Member States’ activities, and their consistency with other Union activities. In order to ensure efficient allocation of funds from the general budget of the Union, consistency, complementarity and synergies should be sought between funding programmes supporting policy areas with close links to each other, in particular within the Justice, Rights and Values Fund – and thus with the Rights and Values Programme- and between the Programme and the Single Market Programme, Border management and Security, in particular the Asylum and Migration ('AMIF') and the Internal Security Funds, Strategic Infrastructure in particular the Digital Europe Programme, the Erasmus+ Programme, the Framework Programme for research and innovation, the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance, and the LIFE Regulation13 .	(18)  It is necessary to ensure the viability, the visibility, the core principle of European added value and the sound financial management in the implementation of all actions and activities carried out within the Justice Programme, their complementarity to Member States’ activities, and their consistency with other Union activities. In order to ensure efficient and performance based allocation of funds from the general budget of the Union, consistency, complementarity and synergies should be sought between funding programmes supporting policy areas with close links to each other, in particular within the Justice, Rights and Values Fund – and thus with the Rights and Values Programme- and between the Programme and the Single Market Programme, Border management and Security, in particular the Asylum and Migration ('AMIF') and the Internal Security Funds, Strategic Infrastructure in particular the Digital Europe Programme, the Erasmus+ Programme, the Framework Programme for research and innovation, the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance, and the LIFE Regulation13. The implementation of the Justice Programme should, whenever necessary, complement or be co-ordinated with the protection of the Union’s budget in case of generalised deficiencies as regards the rule of law in Member States.
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13 Regulation (EU) No 1293/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2013 on the establishment of a Programme for the Environment and Climate Action (LIFE) and repealing Regulation (EC) No 614/2007 Text with EEA relevance	13 Regulation (EU) No 1293/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2013 on the establishment of a Programme for the Environment and Climate Action (LIFE) and repealing Regulation (EC) No 614/2007 Text with EEA relevance
Amendment    15 Proposal for a regulation Recital 21
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(21)  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.	(21)  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 the desired 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.
Amendment    16 Proposal for a regulation Recital 22
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(22)  In accordance with the Financial Regulation, Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council15, Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2988/9516 Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/9617 and Council Regulation (EU) 2017/193918 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 Council19 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.	(22)  In accordance with the Financial Regulation, Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council15, Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2988/9516 Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/9617 and Council Regulation (EU) 2017/193918 the financial interests of the Union are to be protected through proportionate measures, including complete transparency of the Programme financing and selection procedures, 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) should 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) should 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 Council19 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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15 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.	15 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.
16 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).	16 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).
17 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).	17 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).
18 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).	18 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).
19 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).	19 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    17 Proposal for a regulation Recital 23
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(23)  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.	(23)  Subject to complying with all its rules and regulations, 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    18 Proposal for a regulation Recital 27
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(27)  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.	(27)  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 should include measurable indicators, whenever possible, as a basis for evaluating the effects of the Programme on the ground.
Amendment    19 Proposal for a regulation Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point c
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(c)  to facilitate effective access to justice for all and effective redress, including by electronic means, by promoting efficient civil and criminal procedures and by promoting and supporting the rights of victims of crime as well as the procedural rights of suspects and accused persons in criminal proceedings.	(c)  to facilitate equal and effective access to justice for all and effective redress, including by electronic means, by promoting efficient civil and criminal procedures and by promoting and supporting the rights of victims of crime as well as the procedural rights of suspects and accused persons in criminal proceedings.
Amendment    20 Proposal for a regulation Article 9 – 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 are effectively managed in order to avoid any double funding and do not cover the same costs and the objectives of the financed actions are complementary. [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    21 Proposal for a regulation Article 11 – 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 17.	2.  The work programme shall be adopted by the Commission by means of a delegated act. That delegated act shall be adopted in accordance with Article 14.
Amendment    22 Proposal for a regulation Article 12 – 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 correct data for monitoring programme implementation and results are collected efficiently, effectively, and in an accurate and timely manner. To that end, proportionate reporting requirements shall be imposed on recipients of Union funds and Member States.
Amendment    23 Proposal for a regulation Article 13 – paragraph 2
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
2.  The interim evaluation of the Programme shall be carried out 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.	2.  The interim evaluation of the Programme shall be carried out once there is sufficient information available about the implementation of the Programme, but no later than three years after the start of the programme implementation.
Amendment    24 Proposal for a regulation Article 13 – paragraph 3
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
3.  At the end of the implementation of the Programme, but no later than four years after the end of the period specified in Article 1, a final evaluation of the Programme shall be carried out by the Commission.	3.  At the end of the implementation of the Programme, but no later than three years after the end of the period specified in Article 1, a final evaluation of the Programme shall be carried out by the Commission.
Amendment    25 Proposal for a regulation Article 16 – 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 on the European added value of the Programme to multiple audiences, including the media and the public.

PROCEDURE – COMMITTEE ASKED FOR OPINION

Title	Justice programme
References	COM(2018)0384 – C8-0235/2018 – 2018/0208(COD)
Committees responsible        Date announced in plenary	JURI 14.6.2018	LIBE 14.6.2018
Opinion by        Date announced in plenary	CONT 14.6.2018
Rapporteur        Date appointed	Dennis de Jong 2.7.2018
Rule 55 – Joint committee procedure        Date announced in plenary	5.7.2018
Date adopted	15.11.2018
Result of final vote	+: –: 0:	19 1 0
Members present for the final vote	Nedzhmi Ali, Inés Ayala Sender, Zigmantas Balčytis, Dennis de Jong, Martina Dlabajová, Luke Ming Flanagan, Ingeborg Gräßle, Arndt Kohn, Gilles Pargneaux, Georgi Pirinski, Petri Sarvamaa, Bart Staes, Indrek Tarand, Derek Vaughan, Tomáš Zdechovský, Joachim Zeller
Substitutes present for the final vote	Caterina Chinnici, Marian-Jean Marinescu, Julia Pitera, Richard Sulík

FINAL VOTE BY ROLL CALL IN COMMITTEE ASKED FOR OPINION

19	+
ALDE	Nedzhmi Ali, Martina Dlabajová
GUE/NGL	Luke Ming Flanagan, Dennis de Jong
PPE	Ingeborg Gräßle, Marian-Jean Marinescu, Julia Pitera, Petri Sarvamaa, Tomáš Zdechovský, Joachim Zeller
S&D	Inés Ayala Sender, Zigmantas Balčytis, Caterina Chinnici, Arndt Kohn, Gilles Pargneaux, Georgi Pirinski, Derek Vaughan
VERTS/ALE	Bart Staes, Indrek Tarand

1	-
ECR	Richard Sulík

0	0

Key to symbols:

+  :  in favour

-  :  against

0  :  abstention

OPINION of the Committee on Women's Rights and Gender Equality (16.01.2019)

for the Committee on Legal Affairs and 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 Justice programme
(COM(2018)0384 – C8‑0235/2018 – 2018/0208(COD))

Rapporteur for opinion: Angelika Mlinar

AMENDMENTS

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

Amendment    1 Proposal for a regulation Recital 1
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(1)  According to Article 2 of the Treaty on 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’. These values are further reaffirmed and articulated in the rights, freedoms and principles enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union (‘the Charter’).	(1)  According to Article 2 of the Treaty on 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'. Article 8 TFEU further states that the European Union shall, through all its activities, aim at eliminating inequalities, promote gender equality and combat discrimination when defining and implementing its policies and activities; These values are further reaffirmed and articulated in the rights, freedoms and principles enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union (‘the Charter’).
Amendment    2 Proposal for a regulation Recital 1 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(1 a)  According to Articles 8 and 10 of the Treaty of Functioning of the EU, the Justice Programme in all its activities should support gender mainstreaming, including gender budgeting, and the mainstreaming of non-discrimination objectives.
Amendment    3 Proposal for a regulation Recital 2
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(2)  These rights and values must continue to be promoted and enforced, shared among the citizens and peoples within the Union and be at the heart of Europe’s societies, Therefore, a new Justice, Rights and Values Fund, comprising the Rights and Values and the Justice programmes shall be created in the Union 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 a part of the new Fund, the Rights and Values Programme will bring together the 2014-2020 Rights, Equality and Citizenship Programme established by Regulation (EU) No 1381/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council10 and the Europe for Citizens programme established by Regulation (EU) No 390/2014 of the Council11 . The Justice programme (hereafter the 'Programme') will continue to support the development of an integrated European justice area and cross-border cooperation, in continuity with the 2014-2020 Justice Programme established by Regulation (EU) No 1381/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council12 (hereafter 'the predecessor Programme').	(2)  These rights and values must continue to be promoted and enforced, shared among the citizens and peoples within the Union and be at the heart of Europe’s societies, Therefore, a new Justice, Rights and Values Fund, comprising the Rights and Values and the Justice programmes shall be created in the Union 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, equality, rights and EU values: human rights, respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, gender equality, the rule of law and the principle of non-discrimination. This will have profound and direct implications for political, social, cultural and economic life in the EU. As a part of the new Fund, the Rights and Values Programme will bring together the 2014-2020 Rights, Equality and Citizenship Programme established by Regulation (EU) No 1381/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council10 and the Europe for Citizens programme established by Regulation (EU) No 390/2014 of the Council11 . The Justice programme (hereafter the 'Programme') will continue to support the development of an integrated European justice area and cross-border cooperation, in continuity with the 2014-2020 Justice Programme established by Regulation (EU) No 1381/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council12 (hereafter 'the predecessor Programme').
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10 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)	10 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)
11 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)	11 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)
12 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).	12 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    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 our rights-based, equal, inclusive and democratic society. That includes a vibrant civil society, encouraging people’s democratic, civic and social participation and to fostering the rich diversity of European society, also based on our common history and memory. Article 11 of the EU Treaty 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 our rights-based, equal, inclusive and democratic society. That includes a vibrant civil society, encouraging people’s democratic, civic and social participation and to fostering the rich diversity of European society, also based on our common history and memory. A strong and independent women’s rights and lgtbi movement is essential for improving gender equality. It is key for the EU, in line with its core values, to provide sufficient support to these organisations, grassroots groups and defenders, particularly those working in challenging contexts. Article 11 of the EU Treaty 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    5 Proposal for a regulation Recital 4
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(4)  The Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) provides for the creation of an area of freedom, security and justice, with respect for fundamental rights and the different legal systems and traditions of the Member States. To that end, the Union may adopt measures to develop judicial cooperation in civil matters and judicial cooperation in criminal matters and to promote and support the action of Member States in the field of crime prevention. Respect for fundamental rights as well as for common principles and values, such as non-discrimination, gender equality, effective access to justice for all, the rule of law and a well-functioning independent judicial system shall be ensured in the further development of a European area of justice.	(4)  The Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) provides for the creation of an area of freedom, security and justice, with respect for fundamental rights and the different legal systems and traditions of the Member States. To that end, the Union may adopt measures to develop judicial cooperation in civil matters and judicial cooperation in criminal matters and to promote and support the action of Member States in the field of crime prevention and victims’ rights protection, with due regard for the gender-sensitive perspective. Respect for fundamental rights as well as for common principles and values, such as non-discrimination, solidarity, gender equality, equal treatment on the basis of sex, race or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age and sexual orientation, protection of vulnerable group, effective, universal and gender-sensitive access to justice for all, equality before the law, the rule of law, and a well-functioning independent judicial system shall be ensured in the further development of a European area of justice.
Amendment    6 Proposal for a regulation Recital 5
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(5)  Financing should remain one of the important tools for the successful implementation of the ambitious goals set by the Treaties. They should be attained inter alia by establishing a flexible and effective Justice Programme which should facilitate planning and implementation of those goals.	(5)  Financing should remain one of the important tools for the successful implementation of the ambitious goals set by the Treaties. They should be attained inter alia by establishing a flexible and effective Justice Programme, which should facilitate planning and implementation of those goals. The programme should support the work of women´s rights organisations and human rights defenders in the EU and worldwide, in upholding the rule of law and initiatives that counteract the increasingly shrinking space for independent civil society. The specific situation of small and medium-sized civil society organisations that need multiannual operating grants and unearmarked funding, covering core and structural expenses, rather than short-term, project-based funding, should be duly taken into account.
Amendment    7 Proposal for a regulation Recital 5 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(5 a)  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    8 Proposal for a regulation Recital 6 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(6 a)  The incorporation of the gender perspective in justice systems should be considered an important goal to further develop the European area of justice. Intersectional discrimination in the justice system is still one of the main barriers in terms of women’s equal access to justice. The programme should therefore actively contribute to the elimination of any discrimination and barriers to minority, disabled, migrants, asylum seekers, elderly, people living in remote areas or any vulnerable groups that might find restrictions to access to justice and support victim-friendly and gender sensitive procedures and decisions in judicial systems;
Amendment    9 Proposal for a regulation Recital 8
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(8)  Pursuant to Articles 81(2)(h) and 82(1)(c) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU, the Union shall support the training of the judiciary and judicial staff as a tool to improve judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters based on the principle of mutual recognition of judgments and of judicial decisions. Training of justice professionals is an important tool to develop a common understanding of how best to uphold the rule of law. It contributes to the building of the European area of justice by creating a common judicial culture among justice professionals of the Member States. It is essential to ensure the correct and coherent application of law in the Union and mutual trust between justice professionals in cross-border proceedings. The training activities supported by the Programme should be based on sound training needs’ assessments, use state of the art training methodology, include cross-border events gathering justice professionals of different Member States, comprise active learning and networking elements and be sustainable.	(8)  Pursuant to Articles 81(2)(h) and 82(1)(c) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU, the Union shall support the training of the judiciary and judicial staff as a tool to improve judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters based on the principle of mutual recognition of judgments and of judicial decisions. Training of justice professionals is an important tool to develop a common understanding of how best to uphold the rule of law, fundamental rights and to raise awareness on the practical application of the EU equality legislation. It contributes to the building of the European area of justice by creating a common judicial culture among justice professionals of the Member States. It is essential to ensure the correct and coherent application of law in the Union and mutual trust between justice professionals in cross-border proceedings. The training activities supported by the Programme should be based on sound training needs’ assessments, use state of the art training methodology, include cross-border events gathering justice professionals of different Member States, comprise active learning and networking elements and be sustainable. Specific gender training for judges, police and prosecutors should be made available in order to ensure sure victims of trafficking, of gender-based violence and of other crimes are properly protected, identified and respected and to promote cooperation and good practices among judicial system with victim-friendly and gender sensitive procedures;
Amendment    10 Proposal for a regulation Recital 8 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(8 a)  Pursuant to the Council Decision (EU) 2017/865 of 11 May 2017 on the signing, on behalf of the European Union, of the Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence with regard to matters related to judicial cooperation in criminal matters and the respective decision with regard to asylum and non-refoulement, the Programme shall support the training of the judiciary and judicial staff with a view of raising awareness and promoting the practical application of the Convention within this scope to better protect victims of violence against women and girls across the EU.
Amendment    11 Proposal for a regulation Recital 9
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(9)  Judicial training can involve different actors, such as Member States’ legal, judicial and administrative authorities, academic institutions, national bodies responsible for judicial training, European-level training organisations or networks, or networks of court coordinators of Union law. Bodies and entities pursuing a general European interest in the field of training of the judiciary, such as the European Judicial Training Network ('EJTN'), the Academy of European Law ('ERA'), the European Network of Councils for the Judiciary ('ENCJ'), the Association of the Councils of State and Supreme Administrative Jurisdictions of the European Union ('ACA-Europe'), the Network of the Presidents of Supreme Judicial Courts of the European Union ('RPCSJUE') and the European Institute of Public Administration ('EIPA'), should continue to play their role in promoting training programmes with a genuine European dimension for the judiciary and judicial staff, and could therefore be granted adequate financial support in accordance with the procedures and the criteria set out in the annual work programmes adopted by the Commission pursuant to this Regulation.	(9)  Judicial training can involve different actors, such as Member States’ legal, judicial and administrative authorities, academic institutions, national bodies responsible for judicial training, European-level training organisations or networks, or networks of court coordinators of Union law and equality bodies. Cross-cutting cooperation between judges and medical professionals must be supported in order to provide necessary training to judiciary and judicial staff in regard to cases that deal with gender based violence and violence against women. Bodies and entities pursuing a general European interest in the field of training of the judiciary, such as the European Judicial Training Network ('EJTN'), the Academy of European Law ('ERA'), the European Network of Councils for the Judiciary ('ENCJ'), the Association of the Councils of State and Supreme Administrative Jurisdictions of the European Union ('ACA-Europe'), the Network of the Presidents of Supreme Judicial Courts of the European Union ('RPCSJUE') and the European Institute of Public Administration ('EIPA'), should continue to play their role in promoting training programmes with a genuine European dimension for the judiciary and judicial staff, and could therefore be granted adequate financial support in accordance with the procedures and the criteria set out in the annual work programmes adopted by the Commission pursuant to this Regulation. Taking into account that women judges are underrepresented in the top positions, women judges, prosecutors and other legal professions shall be encouraged to participate in the training activities.
Amendment    12 Proposal for a regulation Recital 10
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(10)  The programme should support the annual work programme of EJTN, which is an essential actor of judicial training. The EJTN is in a exceptional situation, insofar as it is the only network at Union level gathering the judicial training bodies of the Member States. It is in a unique position to organise exchanges for new and experienced judges and prosecutors between all Member States and to coordinate the work of the national judicial training bodies regarding the organisation of training activities on Union law and the promotion of good training practices. The EJTN is also a provider of training activities of excellent quality delivered in a cost-efficient manner at Union level. Moreover, it comprises the judicial training bodies of candidate countries as observer members.	(10)  The programme should support the annual work programme of EJTN, which is an essential actor of judicial training. The EJTN is in an exceptional situation, insofar as it is the only network at Union level gathering the judicial training bodies of the Member States. It is in a unique position to organise exchanges for new and experienced judges and prosecutors between all Member States and to coordinate the work of the national judicial training bodies regarding the organisation of training activities on Union law and the promotion of good training practices. The EJTN is also a provider of training activities of excellent quality delivered in a cost-efficient manner at Union level. Moreover, it comprises the judicial training bodies of candidate countries as observer members.
Amendment    13 Proposal for a regulation Recital 10 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(10 a)  The programme should also support the promotion of best practices between courts specifically handling gender-based violence and the exchange of common resources and training materials on gender-based violence for judges, public prosecutors, lawyers, police and other professionals that come in contact with victims of gender based violence;
Amendment    14 Proposal for a regulation Recital 14
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(14)  Pursuant to Article 67 TFEU, the Union should constitute an area of freedom, security and justice with respect for fundamental rights, to which access to justice is instrumental. In order to facilitate effective access to justice, and with a view to foster the mutual trust which is indispensable for the good functioning of the area of freedom, security and justice, it is necessary to extend financial support to activities of other authorities than judicial authorities and legal practitioners, as well as of civil society organisations, which contribute to these objectives.	(14)  Pursuant to Article 67 TFEU, the Union should constitute an area of freedom, security and justice with respect for fundamental rights, to which access to justice is instrumental. In order to facilitate effective access to justice and protection of the victims of crime, and with a view to foster the mutual trust which is indispensable for the good functioning of the area of freedom, security and justice, it is necessary to extend financial support to activities of other authorities than judicial authorities and legal practitioners, as well as of civil society organisations, which contribute to these objectives.
Amendment    15 Proposal for a regulation Recital 15
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(15)  Pursuant to Articles 8 and 10 TFEU, the Programme should also support the mainstreaming of equality between women and men and non-discrimination objectives in all its activities.	(15)  Pursuant to Articles 8 and 10 TFEU, the Programme should take a cross-cutting approach to promote gender equality, support gender mainstreaming, equal rights and non-discrimination objectives in all its activities. Regular monitoring and evaluation should be carried out to assess the way in which gender equality and non-discrimination are addressed in the Programme's activities.
Amendment    16 Proposal for a regulation Recital 16
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(16)  Actions covered by this Regulation should contribute to the creation of a European area of justice, increasing cross-border cooperation and networking and achieving the correct, coherent and consistent application of Union law. Funding activities should also contribute to a common understanding of the Union’s values, the rule of law, to better knowledge of Union law and policies, to sharing know-how and best practices in using judicial cooperation instruments by all concerned stakeholders, as well as to a proliferation of interoperable digital solutions underpinning seamless and efficient cross-border cooperation, and should provide a sound analytical basis to support the development, enforcement and proper implementation of Union law and policies. Union intervention allows for those actions to be pursued consistently across the Union and brings economies of scale. Moreover, the Union is in a better position than Member States to address cross-border situations and to provide a European platform for mutual learning.	(16)  Actions covered by this Regulation should contribute to the creation of a European area of justice, increasing cross-border cooperation and networking, raising awareness on and achieving the correct, practical coherent and consistent application of Union law, in particular EU equality law, and promote better implementation of and coordination between the various EU victims protections instruments in particular Directive 2012/29/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 establishing minimum standards on the rights, support and protection of victims of crime, and replacing Council Framework Decision 2001/220/JHA, Directive 2011/99/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 December 2011 on the European protection order, Regulation 606/2013 on mutual recognition of protection measures in civil matters and Directive 2011/36/EU of the European Parliament and Council of 5 April 2011 on Preventing and Combating Trafficking in Human Beings and Protecting its Victims; Funding activities should also contribute to a common understanding of the Union’s values, the rule of law, to better knowledge of Union law and policies, to sharing know-how and best practices in using judicial cooperation instruments by all concerned stakeholders, as well as to a proliferation of interoperable digital solutions underpinning seamless and efficient cross-border cooperation, and should provide a sound analytical basis to support the development, enforcement and proper implementation of Union law and policies. Union intervention allows forthose actions to be pursued consistently across the Union and brings economies of scale. Moreover, the Union is in a better position than Member States to address cross-border situations and to provide a European platform for mutual learning.
Amendment    17 Proposal for a regulation Recital 16 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(16 a)  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. That also include the lack of protection and support regarding victim´s of sex trafficking, refugee and migrant women, LGBTIQ-people and persons with disabilities.
Amendment    18 Proposal for a regulation Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point a
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(a)  to facilitate and support judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters, and to promote the rule of law including by supporting the efforts to improve the effectiveness of national justice systems and the enforcement of decision;	(a)  to facilitate and support judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters, and to promote the rule of law and fundamental rights including by supporting the efforts to improve the effectiveness of national justice systems and the enforcement of decision and protection of victims with regard to gender-sensitive perspective;
Amendment    19 Proposal for a regulation Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point a a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(a a)  to support and promote the protection of equal rights and non-discrimination on grounds of sex, racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation, combating misogyny, racism, xenophobia, homophobia, strengthening the rights of persons with disabilities and children´s rights;
Amendment    20 Proposal for a regulation Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point b
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(b)  to support and promote judicial training, with a view to fostering a common legal, judicial and rule of law culture;	(b)  to support and promote gender sensitive and victims-oriented judicial training, with a view to fostering a common legal, judicial and rule of law culture taking into consideration the gender perspective and EU equality legislation;
Amendment    21 Proposal for a regulation Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point b a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	(b a)  to ensure and strengthening women’s and girls access to justice in cases of gender-based violence, by ratifying the Istanbul Convention and adopting a comprehensive legislation against gender-based violence in the Union;
Amendment    22 Proposal for a regulation Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point c
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
(c)  to facilitate effective access to justice for all and effective redress, including by electronic means, by promoting efficient civil and criminal procedures and by promoting and supporting the rights of victims of crime as well as the procedural rights of suspects and accused persons in criminal proceedings.	(c)  to facilitate effective, equal and discrimination free access to justice for all and effective redress, including by electronic means, by promoting efficient civil and criminal procedures and by promoting and supporting the rights of victims of crime, particularly women and children, as well as the procedural rights of suspects and accused persons in criminal proceedings.
Amendment    23 Proposal for a regulation Article 4 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	2 a.  The budget allocated for actions linked to the promotion of gender equality shall be indicated annually in an independent budget stand;
Amendment    24 Proposal for a regulation Article 4 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	Article 4 a
	Mainstreaming
	In the implementation of all of its actions, the Programme shall seek to promote equality between women and men. It shall also comply with the prohibition of discrimination based on any of the grounds listed in Article 21 of the Charter, in accordance with and within the limits set by Article 51 of the Charter.
Amendment    25 Proposal for a regulation Article 12 – 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 3 are set out in Annex II.	1.  Gender-disaggregated indicators to report on progress of the Programme towards the achievement of the specific objectives set out in Article 3 are set out in Annex II.
Amendment    26 Proposal for a regulation Article 12 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	2 a.  The monitoring shall also provide a means of assessing the way in which gender equality and non-discrimination have been addressed across the Programme's actions.
Amendment    27 Proposal for a regulation Article 12 – 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, where applicable disaggregated by gender, 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.
Amendment    28 Proposal for a regulation Article 13 – 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 carried out in a timely manner to feed into the decision-making process and to monitor the implementation of actions carried out under the Programme and the achievement of the specific objectives set out in Article 3 and in accordance with Article 5 (mainstreaming). All evaluations shall be gender sensitive and include a specific chapter on gender equality with a detailed analysis of the programme budget dedicated to gender equality related activities.
Amendment    29 Proposal for a regulation Article 14 – 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 group of experts consulted shall be gender balanced.
Amendment    30 Proposal for a regulation Annex I – paragraph 1 – point 1
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
1.  awareness raising, dissemination of information to improve the knowledge of Union policies and of Union law including substantive and procedural law, of judicial cooperation instruments, of the relevant case-law of the Court of Justice of the European Union, and of comparative law and of European and international standards;	1.  awareness raising, dissemination of information to improve the knowledge of Union policies and of Union law including substantive and procedural law, of judicial cooperation instruments, of the relevant case-law of the Court of Justice of the European Union, and of comparative law and of European and international standards; activities by civil society organisations including advocacy, litigation, public mobilisation and education, and the provision of human rights-based services; targeted support to local and national CSOs working on local and national issues.
Amendment    31 Proposal for a regulation Annex I – paragraph 1 – point 2 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	2 a.  Exchange of good practices on best ways to promote and incorporate the gender perspective in all the phases of the judicial system and best ways to ensure equal access to justice for all.
Amendment    32 Proposal for a regulation Annex I – paragraph 1 – point 3
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
3.  analytical and monitoring activities25 to improve the knowledge and understanding of potential obstacles to the smooth functioning of a European area of justice and to improve the implementation of Union law and policies in the Member States;	3.  analytical and monitoring activities25 to improve the knowledge and understanding of potential obstacles to the smooth functioning of a European area of justice and to improve the implementation of Union law and policies in the Member States specially in the field of equal rights and universal and non-discriminatory access to justice for all people in the Union, regardless of their residence status;
__________________	__________________
25 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.	25 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    33 Proposal for a regulation Annex I – paragraph 1 – point 4
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
4.  training relevant stakeholders to improve the knowledge of Union policies and Union law including inter alia substantive and procedural law, the use of EU judicial cooperation instruments, the relevant case-law of the Court of Justice of the European Union, legal language and of comparative law.	4.  training relevant stakeholders to improve the knowledge of Union policies and Union law including inter alia substantive and procedural law, Union law on rights, support and protection of victims of crime, the use of EU judicial cooperation instruments, the relevant case-law of the Court of Justice of the European Union, legal language and of comparative law.
Amendment    34 Proposal for a regulation Annex I – paragraph 1 – point 4 a (new)
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
	4 a.  Specific gender training for judges, layers, police and prosecutors on gender based violence and victims-friendly procedures and exchange of best practices between courts specifically handling gender-based violence.
Amendment    35 Proposal for a regulation Annex I – paragraph 1 – point 6
Text proposed by the Commission	Amendment
6.  developing capacity of key European level networks and European judicial networks, including networks established by Union law to ensure the effective application and enforcement of Union law, to promote and further develop Union law, policy goals and strategies in the areas of the programme, as well as supporting civil society organisations active in the areas covered by the Programme.	6.  developing capacity of key European level networks, Women´s rights organisation and networks, LGBTIQ-rights organisations, and European judicial networks, including networks established by Union law to ensure the effective application and enforcement of Union law, to promote and further develop Union law, policy goals and strategies in the areas of the programme, as well as supporting civil society organisations active in the areas covered by the Programme.
Amendment    36 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 where applicable disaggregated by gender and age, will be collected as regards the following set of key indicators:

PROCEDURE – COMMITTEE ASKED FOR OPINION

Title	Justice programme
References	COM(2018)0384 – C8-0235/2018 – 2018/0208(COD)
Committees responsible        Date announced in plenary	JURI 14.6.2018	LIBE 14.6.2018
Opinion by        Date announced in plenary	FEMM 14.6.2018
Rapporteur        Date appointed	Angelika Mlinar 14.9.2018
Rule 55 – Joint committee procedure        Date announced in plenary	5.7.2018
Discussed in committee	22.10.2018
Date adopted	27.11.2018
Result of final vote	+: –: 0:	18 2 4
Members present for the final vote	Daniela Aiuto, Maria Arena, Beatriz Becerra Basterrechea, Heinz K. Becker, Malin Björk, Vilija Blinkevičiūtė, André Elissen, Iratxe García Pérez, Anna Hedh, Teresa Jiménez-Becerril Barrio, Agnieszka Kozłowska-Rajewicz, Florent Marcellesi, Maria Noichl, Marijana Petir, João Pimenta Lopes, Liliana Rodrigues, Michaela Šojdrová, Ernest Urtasun, Jadwiga Wiśniewska, Anna Záborská
Substitutes present for the final vote	Urszula Krupa, Edouard Martin, Clare Moody, Julie Ward
Substitutes under Rule 200(2) present for the final vote	Lynn Boylan

FINAL VOTE BY ROLL CALL IN COMMITTEE ASKED FOR OPINION

18	+
ALDE	Beatriz Becerra Basterrechea
EFDD	Daniela Aiuto
GUE/NGL	Malin Björk, Lynn Boylan, João Pimenta Lopes
PPE	Teresa Jiménez-Becerril Barrio, Agnieszka Kozłowska-Rajewicz
S&D	Maria Arena, Vilija Blinkevičiūtė, Iratxe García Pérez, Anna Hedh, Edouard Martin, Clare Moody, Maria Noichl, Liliana Rodrigues, Julie Ward
VERTS/ALE	Florent Marcellesi, Ernest Urtasun

2	-
ECR	Urszula Krupa, Jadwiga Wiśniewska

4	0
PPE	Heinz K. Becker, Marijana Petir, Michaela Šojdrová, Anna Záborská

Key to symbols:

+  :  in favour

-  :  against

0  :  abstention

PROCEDURE – COMMITTEE RESPONSIBLE

Title	Justice programme
References	COM(2018)0384 – C8-0235/2018 – 2018/0208(COD)
Date submitted to Parliament	30.5.2018
Committees responsible        Date announced in plenary	JURI 14.6.2018	LIBE 14.6.2018
Committees asked for opinions        Date announced in plenary	BUDG 14.6.2018	CONT 14.6.2018	FEMM 14.6.2018
Rapporteurs        Date appointed	Heidi Hautala 9.7.2018	Josef Weidenholzer 9.7.2018
Rule 55 – Joint committee procedure        Date announced in plenary	5.7.2018
Discussed in committee	18.10.2018	19.11.2018
Date adopted	4.2.2019
Result of final vote	+: –: 0:	46 6 2
Members present for the final vote	Asim Ademov, Michał Boni, Jean-Marie Cavada, Daniel Dalton, Rachida Dati, Mady Delvaux, Laura Ferrara, Romeo Franz, Ana Gomes, Heidi Hautala, Filiz Hyusmenova, Sophia in ‘t Veld, Eva Joly, Sylvia-Yvonne Kaufmann, Dietmar Köster, Cécile Kashetu Kyenge, Roberta Metsola, Claude Moraes, József Nagy, Péter Niedermüller, Julia Reda, Evelyn Regner, Judith Sargentini, Giancarlo Scottà, Helga Stevens, Traian Ungureanu, Axel Voss, Josef Weidenholzer, Kristina Winberg, Tadeusz Zwiefka
Substitutes present for the final vote	Carlos Coelho, Sergio Gaetano Cofferati, Dennis de Jong, Gérard Deprez, Pascal Durand, Evelyne Gebhardt, Jytte Guteland, Anna Hedh, Lívia Járóka, Petr Ježek, Marek Jurek, Maite Pagazaurtundúa Ruiz, Barbara Spinelli, Josep-Maria Terricabras, Tiemo Wölken
Substitutes under Rule 200(2) present for the final vote	Birgit Collin-Langen, Stefan Eck, Stefan Gehrold, Françoise Grossetête, John Howarth, Ramón Jáuregui Atondo, Dominique Riquet, Paul Rübig, Gabriele Zimmer
Date tabled	6.2.2019

FINAL VOTE BY ROLL CALL IN COMMITTEE RESPONSIBLE

46	+
ALDE	Jean-Marie Cavada, Gérard Deprez, Filiz Hyusmenova, Sophia in 't Veld, Petr Ježek, Maite Pagazaurtundúa Ruiz, Dominique Riquet
EFDD	Laura Ferrara
GUE/NGL	Stefan Eck, Barbara Spinelli, Gabriele Zimmer
PPE	Asim Ademov, Michał Boni, Carlos Coelho, Birgit Collin-Langen, Rachida Dati, Stefan Gehrold, Françoise Grossetête, Roberta Metsola, József Nagy, Paul Rübig, Axel Voss, Tadeusz Zwiefka
S&D	Sergio Gaetano Cofferati, Mady Delvaux, Evelyne Gebhardt, Ana Gomes, Jytte Guteland, Anna Hedh, John Howarth, Ramón Jáuregui Atondo, Sylvia-Yvonne Kaufmann, Dietmar Köster, Cécile Kashetu Kyenge, Claude Moraes, Péter Niedermüller, Evelyn Regner, Josef Weidenholzer, Tiemo Wölken
VERTS/ALE	Pascal Durand, Romeo Franz, Heidi Hautala, Eva Joly, Julia Reda, Judith Sargentini, Josep-Maria Terricabras

6	-
ECR	Daniel Dalton, Marek Jurek, Helga Stevens, Kristina Winberg
ENF	Giancarlo Scottà
PPE	Lívia Járóka

2	0
GUE/NGL	Dennis de Jong
PPE	Traian Ungureanu

Key to symbols:

+  :  in favour

-  :  against

0  :  abstention