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report parliamentary committee draft, 7 May 2026

On the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing the ‘AgoraEU’ programme for the period 2028-2034, and repealing Regulations (EU) 2021/692 and (EU) 2021/818

Document CJ65-PR-787746 · (COM(2025)0550 – C100173/2025 – 2025/0550(COD))

Committee on Culture and Education Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs · Rapporteur: Emma Rafowicz, Alice Kuhnke

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Draft european parliament legislative resolution 941 paragraphs

(COM(2025)0550 – C100173/2025 – 2025/0550(COD))

(Ordinary legislative procedure: first reading)

The European Parliament,

–having regard to the Commission proposal to Parliament and the Council (COM(2025)0550),

–having regard to Article 294(2) and Article 19(2), Article 21(2), Article 24, Article 167(5), Article 168(5) and Article 173(3) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, pursuant to which the Commission submitted the proposal to Parliament (C100173/2025),

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

–having regard to the budgetary assessment by the Committee on Budgets,

–having regard to the opinion of the European Economic and Social Committee of 4 December 2025,

–having regard to the opinion of the Committee of the Regions of …,

–having regard to Rules 60 and 58 of its Rules of Procedure,

–having regard to the joint deliberations of the Committee on Culture and Education and the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs under Rule 59 of the Rules of Procedure,

–having regard to the opinions of the Committee on Budgetary Control and the Committee on Women's Rights and Gender Equality,

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–having regard to the report of the Committee on Culture and Education and the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs (A100000/2026),

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

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

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

Amendment 1

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(1) Pursuant to Article 2 of the Treaty on European Union (TEU), the Union is founded on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and the respect for human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities, which are common to the Member States in a society in which pluralism, non-discrimination, tolerance, justice, solidarity and equality between women and men prevail (‘Union values’). The Union values are reflected in the rights, freedoms and principles set out in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union (the ‘Charter’). Article 3 TEU further mandates the Union to promote the protection of the rights of the child. Article 10 TEU further states that the functioning of the Union shall be founded on representative democracy, that citizens are directly represented at Union level in the European Parliament and that citizens have the right to participate in the democratic life of the Union. Article 20 establishes Union citizenship and sets out important rights that citizens of the Union shall, inter alia, enjoy.(1) Pursuant to Article 2 of the Treaty on European Union (TEU), the Union is founded on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and the respect for human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities, which are common to the Member States in a society in which pluralism, non-discrimination, tolerance, justice, solidarity and gender equality prevail (‘Union values’). The Union values are articulated and reaffirmed in the rights, freedoms and principles set out in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union (the ‘Charter’) and in the Treaties. Article 3 TEU states that the Union’s aims are, inter alia, the promotion of peace, its values, and the well-being of its peoples, and that the Union is to protect the rights of the child, and respect its rich cultural and linguistic diversity. Article 10 TEU further states that the functioning of the Union is to be founded on representative democracy, that decisions are to be taken as openly and as closely as possible to the citizens, and that citizens are directly represented at Union level in the European Parliament and have the right to participate in the democratic life of the Union. Article 20 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) establishes Union citizenship and sets out certain important rights that citizens of the Union are to enjoy.

Or. en

Amendment 2

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 1 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(1a) It is crucial that those rights and values continue to be actively cultivated, respected, protected, promoted, enforced and shared among the citizens and peoples and that they remain at the heart of the Union’s project, as their deterioration in any Member State could have detrimental effects on the Union as a whole. At a time when disinformation, discrimination and hate speech are on the rise, democracy is under pressure and civic space is rapidly shrinking, it is more important than ever to promote, strengthen and defend those rights and values. Compliance with the Union values enshrined in Article 2 TEU and the Charter as a condition for eligibility for Union funding ensures that Union funding respects the obligation to protect fundamental rights and prevent the misuse of funds enshrined in the Treaties. The case law of the Court of Justice of the European Union has also confirmed that Union institutions, bodies, offices and agencies as well as national entities implementing Union actions must act in conformity with fundamental rights enshrined in the Charter. Therefore, compliance with Union values enshrined in Article 2 TEU and the Charter should be a pre-condition for accessing funding under the ‘AgoraEU’ Programme (the ‘Programme’).

Or. en

Amendment 3

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(2) Culture and media and promotion and respect of Union values are all crucial components of a free, fair, diverse, inclusive and cohesive Union. Citizens’ participation and engagement, in due respect of Union values, constitutes the basis of the democratic life of the Union, with media playing a crucial role in shaping public opinion and free debate. Audiovisual works and all other forms of cultural and creative expressions, including cultural heritage, are essential to Europe’s diversity and to forging societal resilience and mutual understanding among European citizens and communities.(2) Culture and information and promotion and respect of Union values are all crucial components of a free, fair, diverse, inclusive and cohesive Union. They are elements of the public good that constitutes a pillar of European society. Citizens’ participation and engagement, in due respect of Union values, constitutes the basis of the democratic life of the Union while the news sector plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion and free debate. Films and audiovisual works and all other forms of cultural and creative expressions, including cultural heritage, are essential to Europe’s diversity and to forging societal resilience and mutual understanding among European citizens and communities. In parallel, while remaining open to international cooperation, it is necessary to prevent and reduce structural dependencies on non-European actors, technologies, or platforms, and to develop, strengthen, and retain European capacities across the entire value chain, from creation and production to the distribution of and access to works. Such measures should be carried out in accordance with the values of the Union, including freedom of expression, cultural and linguistic diversity, media freedom and pluralism, and democratic resilience in order to ensure the cultural sovereignty of the Union.

Or. en

Amendment 4

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 3

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(3) The ‘AgoraEU’ Programme (the ‘Programme’) will provide a significant contribution to the attainment and realisation of these objectives, rights and values.(3) The Programme will focus on the attainment and realisation of these objectives. The ultimate objective is to nurture and sustain a rights-based, equal, open, pluralistic, inclusive and democratic society based on the rule of law and cultural diversity, that contributes to the protection and promotion of rights and values enshrined in the Treaties, the Charter and in applicable international human rights conventions.

Or. en

Amendment 5

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 4

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(4) The Programme should succeed the Creative Europe Programme established by Regulation (EU) 2021/818 of the European Parliament and the Council11 and the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values Programme, established by Regulation (EU) 2021/692 of the European Parliament and of the Council12. It should streamline various funding actions in support of media freedom and pluralism, fight against disinformation in support of the provision on information on Union affairs. Free and pluralistic media and civil society are among key watchdogs of the Union’s democratic systems, playing a crucial role for democratic resilience, and should be supported. The Programme should also support the cultural, creative and media sectors, harness the power of culture and cultural diversity, enhance the information space, and support the Union’s efforts to strengthen a rights-based, inclusive, equal and democratic society. This Regulation lays down an indicative financial envelope for the ‘AgoraEU’ Programme13. For the purpose of this Regulation, current prices are calculated by applying a fixed 2% deflator.(4) The Programme should succeed the Creative Europe Programme established by Regulation (EU) 2021/818 of the European Parliament and the Council11 and the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values Programme, established by Regulation (EU) 2021/692 of the European Parliament and of the Council12. It should streamline various funding actions in support of media freedom and pluralism and of professional journalistic content, including the coverage of European, regional and local news, and support the fight against disinformation. The Programme should also support the protection and promotion of free culture, a free, diverse, independent and pluralistic news environment and civic space, which are key watchdogs of the Union’s democratic systems and play a crucial role for democratic resilience and countering disinformation. The Programme should also support the cultural, creative and news sectors, harness the power of culture, foster cultural and linguistic diversity, enhance the quality information space, and support the Union’s efforts to ensure a rights-based, inclusive, equal and democratic society based on the rule of law. The Programme should also enhance the competitiveness and diversity of Europe’s cultural and creative ecosystems, including by addressing the specific needs of each sector by filling existing support gaps, encouraging the circulation of European works, and improving transparency and fairness in markets that are increasingly dominated by platforms and marked by growing concentration to safeguard European cultural sovereignty. This Regulation lays down an indicative financial envelope for the ‘AgoraEU’ Programme13. For the purpose of this Regulation, current prices are calculated by applying a fixed 2% deflator.
11 Regulation (EU) 2021/818 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 May 2021 establishing the Creative Europe Programme (2021 to 2027) and repealing Regulation (EU) No 1295/2013 (OJ L 189, 28.5.2021, p. 34, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2021/818/oj).11Regulation (EU) 2021/818 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 May 2021 establishing the Creative Europe Programme (2021 to 2027) and repealing Regulation (EU) No 1295/2013 (OJ L 189, 28.5.2021, p. 34, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2021/818/oj).
12 Regulation (EU) 2021/692 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 April 2021 establishing the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values Programme and repealing Regulation (EU) No 1381/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council and Council Regulation (EU) No 390/2014 (OJ L 156, 5.5.2021, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2021/692/oj).12 Regulation (EU) 2021/692 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 April 2021 establishing the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values Programme and repealing Regulation (EU) No 1381/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council and Council Regulation (EU) No 390/2014 (OJ L 156, 5.5.2021, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2021/692/oj).
13 Where relevant, the support provided by the Programme shall accelerate or boost investments by addressing market failures or sub-optimal investment situations, in a proportionate manner, avoiding duplication or crowding out, and by incentivising private funding, and shall have Union added-value.13 Where relevant, the support provided by the Programme shall accelerate or boost investments by addressing market failures or sub-optimal investment situations, in a proportionate manner, avoiding duplication or crowding out, and by incentivising private funding, and shall have Union added-value.

Or. en

Amendment 6

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 5

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(5) To be effective, the Programme should take into account the specific nature and challenges of the different policy areas and sectors, their different target groups and their particular needs through targeted approaches.(5) By building on and further developing the positive experiences of the Creative Europe and the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values Programmes, the Programme should allow for synergies to be developed in order to tackle the challenges that are common to the promotion and protection of Union values. At the same time, the pursuit of such synergies should not come at the expense of targeted approaches. To be effective, the Programme should take into account the specific nature and challenges of the different policy areas and sectors, their different target groups and their particular needs through intersectional targeted approaches.

Or. en

Amendment 7

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 6

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(6) In a fast changing economic, social and geopolitical environment, the recent experience has shown the need for a more flexible multiannual financial framework and its programmes. To that effect, and in line with the objectives of the ‘AgoraEU’ Programme, the funding will take due account of the evolving policy needs and Union’s priorities as identified in relevant documents published by the Commission, in Council conclusions and European Parliament resolutions while ensuring sufficient predictability for the implementation.(6) In a fast changing economic, social and geopolitical environment, recent experience has shown the need for a more flexible multiannual financial framework and its programmes. At the same time, such flexibility should be carefully balanced with a sufficient degree of stability to ensure predictability, legal certainty and continuity in implementation. To that effect, and without prejudice to the attainment of the objectives of the Programme and the independence of its beneficiaries, the funding will take due account of the evolving policy needs and the Union’s priorities as identified in relevant documents published by the Commission, in Council conclusions and European Parliament resolutions while ensuring sufficient sustainability and predictability for implementation. The funding should also seek synergies with other Union instruments and effectively safeguard a stable framework that promotes long term initiatives and enables beneficiaries to plan and implement actions effectively over time.

Or. en

Amendment 8

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 6 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(6a) The Union pursues the objective of a green transition, as reflected in its legislative framework, including the Green Deal. The cultural and the news sectors, as important components of the European economy, generate a notable environmental impact, including in terms of greenhouse gas emissions and effects on biodiversity. At the same time, cultural activities and heritage sites are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, including increased global instability and more frequent national disasters. These sectors are key to support Europe’s transition towards greater sustainability, sovereignty and resilience. In that context, the Union should aim to reduce the environmental footprint of those sectors and promote efforts to mitigate the effects of climate change and to enhance their adaptation to climate change (“green for culture”), while also leveraging the sectors’ potential to contribute to the broader green transition (“culture for green”).

Or. en

Amendment 9

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 7

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(7) The cultural and creative sectors, including performing arts (such as theatre and dance), literature and book publishing, music, visual arts, tangible and intangible cultural heritage, architecture, archives, libraries and museums, crafts and design (including fashion design), serve as ‘public good’, generating meaning and embodying the values of the Union. They are also a great asset for the Union and its regions, attracting sustainable tourism and projecting the image of a dynamic continent on the world stage. The Programme should take into account, on the one hand, their intrinsic and artistic value, as well as, on the other hand, their extrinsic social and economic contributions, including to social and territorial cohesion, well-being and health, growth and job creation, competitiveness, creativity and innovation.(7) The cultural and creative sectors, including performing arts (such as theatre, dance and circus arts), literature and book publishing, music, radio, the audiovisual sector, cinema, video games, visual arts, tangible and intangible cultural heritage, architecture, archives, libraries and museums, crafts and design (including fashion design), serve as elements of the public good, generating meaning and embodying the values of the Union. They are also a great asset for the Union and its regions, attracting sustainable tourism and projecting the image of a dynamic continent on the world stage. The Programme should take into account, on the one hand, their intrinsic and artistic value, as well as, on the other hand, their extrinsic social and economic contributions, including to social and territorial cohesion, well-being and health, growth and job creation, competitiveness, creativity and innovation. To ensure that the Programme contributes fully to strengthening Europe’s cultural and creative sectors, fostering vibrant cultural employment, and promoting the diversity of cultural expressions, it is important to ensure that the actions funded are based on a substantial and identifiable human creative contribution.

Or. en

Amendment 10

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 7 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(7a) The Programme should contribute to the objectives of the Culture Compass for Europe, which sets out a strategic framework placing culture, artistic freedom and working conditions at the centre of Union policymaking. It acts as a guiding reference for culture within the 2028–2034 Multiannual Financial Framework and highlights the need to mobilise existing and future Union funding instruments in a more coordinated and systematic manner to achieve its objectives. In that context, the Programme should support the implementation of the Culture Compass for Europe by ensuring dedicated, accessible and reliable funding for the cultural and creative sectors and by promoting fair remuneration and decent working conditions for artists in line with the Charter, in particular Articles 3 and 13 thereof.

Or. en

Amendment 11

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 8

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(8) The cultural and creative sectors are however fragmented along national and linguistic lines in the Union. They also face multiple challenges, such as attacks on freedom of artistic expression, precarious working conditions, digital transformations with the rise of artificial intelligence, and the need to adapt to climate change. The Programme should help those sectors respond to such challenges, untap their full potential and project themselves resolutely into the future while ensuring the widest participation, including from local and regional actors, through various channels and formats.(8) The cultural and creative sectors are fragmented along national and linguistic lines in the Union. They also face multiple challenges, such as attacks on freedom of artistic expression, precarious working conditions, market concentration and the dominance of global platforms, digital transformations with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), and the need to adapt to climate change, as well as persistent inequalities in access to and participation in culture. The Programme should help those sectors respond to such challenges, untap their full potential and project themselves resolutely into the future while ensuring the widest participation, including from local and regional actors, through various channels and formats. The Programme should also provide targeted support for artists and cultural professionals who are at risk of forced displacement or in forced displacement, beginning with immediate emergency protection, followed by safe temporary relocation to enable recovery and planning, and ultimately offering access to longer-term safe environments where they can regain autonomy, secure dignified livelihoods, and rebuild professional networks.

Or. en

Amendment 12

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 8 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(8a) The Programme should ensure that artists and cultural and creative actors from priority areas, including outermost regions, rural areas and disadvantaged urban policy districts, can access and fully benefit from the opportunities it provides, recognising the essential contribution of those territories to European cultural diversity, encouraging their participation through targeted awareness-raising actions and application support and continuing to promote the visibility of those actors through targeted annual calls for projects.

Or. en

Amendment 13

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 8 b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(8b) The Programme should also ensure the greater participation of persons with disabilities in the cultural and creative sectors and take into account barriers faced by them in accessing the Cultural and Creative Sectors (CCS). People with disabilities across the Union continue to face significant barriers to accessing cultural life, whether as audience members, creators, or professionals. They encounter a range of structural challenges, as many environments, systems, and infrastructures remain inadequately designed to accommodate the needs of persons with disabilities, whether as audience members, creators, or professionals. In that context, the Union should play an active role in facilitating the exchange of knowledge and best practices as well as promoting and supporting the development of accessible practices across the cultural and creative sectors. It is also essential to recall that the Union recognizes and respects the right of persons with disabilities to benefit from measures aimed at ensuring their participation in cultural life and, by extension, in the community, as provided for in Article 26 of the Charter and Article 30 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities adopted on 13 December 20061a, to which the Union is a party.
1a OJ L 23, 27.01.2010, p. 35.

Or. en

Amendment 14

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 8 c (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(8c) The European music sector is confronted with structural difficulties. Those include the limited circulation of European works, increasing market concentration, evolving consumption habits, the disruptive effects of generative AI and the lack of transparency in streaming platforms, including when it comes to the discoverability and prominence of European music content. Building on the “Music Moves Europe” initiative, action at Union level should aim to strengthen the European music sector’s ability to create, produce, promote, and distribute a wide range of repertoires across borders, both in live settings and digital spaces, while ensuring fair access to audiences within and beyond the Union. It should also reinforce the long-term viability of independent actors throughout the value chain, encourage collaboration between Member States with differing market capacities, improve transparency and working conditions and align with the Union’s regulatory framework in areas such as competition, digital services, copyright protection and cultural and linguistic diversity. It should also promote young talents through dedicated initiatives such as the European Union Youth Orchestra.

Or. en

Amendment 15

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 8 d (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(8d) The book sector in Europe is one of the largest cultural and creative industries. It relies on an interdependent value chain encompassing authors, publishers, printers, distributors, translators, booksellers, libraries and readers, in which each actor plays a vital role. At the same time, that sector faces challenges related to pressures on freedom of expression and cultural diversity, including in certain cases, instances of regulatory interference and self-censorship. There is also the need to preserve the essential role of bookshops and libraries as local gateways to reading, knowledge, culture, and social and digital inclusion. They constitute a dense network of trusted, non-commercial public spaces that offer universal access to culture, information and lifelong learning, and function as essential social infrastructure in both urban and rural communities. Therefore, the action at Union level should aim to safeguard a balanced and sustainable book ecosystem by protecting the specific roles of all actors in the value chain, supporting the creation and translation of European works and reinforce the role of books as tools for inclusion. It should also promote the collection of reliable data across the production chain to improve transparency, including on the origin of materials.

Or. en

Amendment 16

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 8 e (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(8e) The cultural and creative sectors play an essential role in cultural vitality, social cohesion and cultural diversity in Europe. However, they face structural challenges, including underfunding, a high level of job insecurity and persistent inequalities in terms of visibility and fair remuneration. Those sectors must also address transformations linked to digitalisation, evolving practices and audience expectations, as well as the effects of climate change, which require the adaptation of their production and distribution models. In that context, ensuring decent working conditions and equitable, stable and sustainable access to funding should be a priority for the Programme.

Or. en

Amendment 17

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 9

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(9) Europe's cultural heritage is a shared and priceless legacy facing budget constraints, natural and human-induced disasters, climate change, and regional conflicts. It is important to safeguard and preserve such a legacy, enhancing access and fostering a collective European identity. Digital preservation further ensures that future generations can learn from, appreciate, and draw inspiration from their cultural heritage.(9) Europe's cultural heritage is a shared and priceless legacy facing budget constraints, natural and human-induced disasters, pressure from overtourism, insufficient investment in preservation capacities, climate change, heritage-related crimes and regional conflicts. It is important to safeguard and preserve such a legacy, enhancing access and fostering a collective European identity but also to strengthen resilience through the development and implementation of crisis preparedness and risk management plans, as well as cooperation mechanisms. Digital preservation, notably through the development of a common European data space for cultural heritage and the Cultural Heritage Cloud, further ensures that future generations can learn from, appreciate, and draw inspiration from their cultural heritage.

Or. en

Amendment 18

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 9 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(9a) Safeguarding Europe’s audiovisual heritage is essential for passing on the Union’s cultural legacy to future generations and improving access to creative works. Due to the significant technical expenses involved and the gradual disappearance of analogue formats, dedicated support is needed for initiatives focused on digitising, restoring, and ensuring the long-term conservation of audiovisual content. The objective should be to make it accessible to both the public and professionals, while respecting intellectual property rights. Such efforts should strengthen cultural diversity, promote the circulation of works across borders and reinforce the Union’s cultural and digital autonomy.

Or. en

Amendment 19

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 10

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(10) The Programme should also give financial support to the European Heritage Label and the European Capitals of Culture actions, that celebrate and preserve Europe's rich cultural diversity and heritage, connecting it to the local level and contributing to culture-driven development strategies.(10) The Programme should also give financial support to the European Heritage Label and the European Capitals of Culture actions, that celebrate and preserve Europe's rich cultural and linguistic diversity and heritage, connecting it to the local level and contributing to culture-driven development strategies while ensuring that the funding allocated is sufficient to enable the selected cities and sites to showcase and enhance their projects and cultural and natural heritage. The time allocated to organising events for the selected cities should also be extended and the support provided should be strengthened beyond mere financial assistance and could be provided by organisations and dedicated networks.

Or. en

Amendment 20

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 11

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(11) Europe's media sectors hold a unique position in our democracies, culture, and economies. They encompass, inter alia, content such as films, series, video games, news and information, immersive reality and multimedia, as well as services including theatrical exhibition, television and radio broadcasting, print and online publishing, advertising online videos and podcasts. The digital transformation, notably the rise of artificial intelligence, has accelerated media convergence, changed consumer behaviour, disrupted business and revenue models, as well as intellectual property management and exploitation. The Union should therefore help the Union’s media thrive, foster innovation and access to finance, promote cross fertilisation between news, audiovisual and other media sectors and support collaborations between different types of media entities across the Union.(11) Europe's news sectors hold a unique position in our democracies, culture, and economies. They encompass, inter alia, services such as television and radio broadcasting, print and online publishing, advertising online videos and podcasts. The digital transformation, notably the rise of artificial intelligence, has created new opportunities but has also disrupted business and revenue models, as well as intellectual property management and exploitation including through the unauthorised use and exploitation of journalistic works. The Union should therefore help the Union’s news sector to thrive, foster innovation and gain access to finance, while regulating AI, promoting cross-fertilisation and supporting collaborations between different types of news media outlets across the Union.

Or. en

Amendment 21

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 12

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(12) The Union audiovisual sector faces challenges stemming from limited cross-border circulation, shifting consumption habits and the dominance of non-Union players. Given these challenges, Union intervention should support the capacity of European audiovisual and video games industries to create, finance, produce and disseminate European works on all platforms that are available and attractive to audiences within the Union and beyond. It should foster transmedia adaptations of intellectual property between different media formats, contribute to promoting collaboration among Member States with different market capacities, and accompany the Union’s audiovisual regulatory framework.(12) The Union film and audiovisual sector faces challenges stemming from limited cross-border circulation, shifting consumption habits and the dominance of non-Union players. In light of these challenges, Union intervention should support the capacity of European film and audiovisual industries to create, finance, produce and disseminate European works, including through theatrical distribution, on all platforms that are available and attractive to audiences within the Union and beyond. The cinema release of European films remains vital for their visibility. It enhances their value, and generates positive momentum for subsequent distribution channels, including video-on-demand. Film distributors and cinema operators play a key role in bringing European works to audiences across borders. The Culture - MEDIA strand should acknowledge and support that contribution. The Culture - MEDIA strand should also foster transmedia adaptations of intellectual property between different media formats, contribute to promoting collaboration among Member States with different market capacities, and accompany the Union’s audiovisual regulatory framework. Support for audiovisual production should be entirely devoted to independent European audiovisual production companies. It should ensure that intellectual property rights remain vested in independent European audiovisual production companies, foster fair competition and maintain a balanced value chain. The Programme should aim to reinforce the independence of production not only as a cultural objective but also as an industrial and strategic priority for the Union, contributing to media pluralism, democratic resilience, and long-term competitiveness.

Or. en

Amendment 22

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 12 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(12a) The European video game sector is a dynamic and rapidly evolving component of the cultural and creative industries, characterised by a dense and innovative ecosystem of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). It combines artistic creation and advanced technological development. However, the sector faces structural challenges, including strong global competition and limited access to financing for independent studios. The sector is also confronted with issues related to audience-building, which require highly specialised marketing strategies and tools adapted to fast-changing consumption patterns and digital distribution channels. The Union intervention should therefore further improve access to information, guidance, and local support mechanisms, including through strengthened Programme Desks, in order to assist stakeholders in navigating funding opportunities and application procedures.

Or. en

Amendment 23

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 13

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(13) News media outlets and journalists across the Union are under increased pressure, notably due to the rise of global online platforms, shifting consumption habits and growing spread of disinformation. These challenges impact news revenues and distribution, undermining the viability and public trust in news media outlets, and limiting citizens’ access to diverse, professionally produced European journalistic content. The Union should support a viable, independent and diverse information ecosystem, protect journalists under threat, promote media freedom and pluralism, and reinforce the integrity of the information space, by promoting measures and enhancing cooperation aimed at tackling disinformation and supporting digital and media literacy, including for young people.(13) The crucial role of news media outlets, journalists and civil society in the democratic functioning of the Union remains under increased pressure, notably due to democratic backsliding, increased crackdowns on civic space and free media in some Member States, the rise of global online platforms and the impact of the recommender systems, the online advertising duopoly, shifting consumption habits and ever-growing spread and amplification of coordinated disinformation campaigns. These challenges impact news revenues and distribution, undermining the viability and public trust in news media outlets, and limiting the public’s access to diverse, professionally produced European journalistic content. They also impact public discourse by reducing the space for pluralistic and free debate in European societies. The Union should support the protection and promotion of a viable, independent and diverse information ecosystem, protect journalists, other media actors and civil society actors under physical, professional, legal or gender-based threats, promote media freedom and pluralism, and reinforce the integrity of the information space, by promoting measures and enhancing cooperation aimed at tackling the spread of disinformation and supporting digital and media literacy. That would require financial support for civil society organisations researching the causes and solutions to that problem, as laid down in the EU Strategy for Civil Society.

Or. en

Amendment 24

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 13 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(13a) The ‘Information and Journalism’ strand should aim to provide concrete support in the areas related to the proper functioning and resilience of the news media sector. It should bolster the diversity of the European news media sector, including by providing support to a wide variety of news media organisations, in particular those operating at the local level. It should contribute to increasing safety of journalists, media professionals and civil society organisations, recognising their key role in a healthy information ecosystem. The Programme should also support the European news sector in facing the challenges stemming from the digital transformation and risks of the information deserts in the Union. This should include supporting the trustworthy news content in reaching its audiences and safeguarding a due prominence of such content in the online space.

Or. en

Amendment 25

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 14

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(14) Democracies in the Union are facing increasing challenges. Declining trust of citizens in democratic institutions and processes is exacerbated by disinformation, social polarisation and hatred impacting the electoral and other democratic processes. A whole of society approach is needed to make European democracy more resilient.(14) Member States are facing increasing challenges, including backsliding in democracy, rule of law and fundamental rights. Declining trust of citizens in democratic institutions and processes is exacerbated by disinformation, social polarisation and hatred impacting the electoral and other democratic processes. Recipients of media services should be able to access trustworthy content which has been produced by journalists in an independent manner and in line with ethical and journalistic standards. A whole of society approach is needed to make European democracy more resilient.

Or. en

Amendment 26

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 15

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(15) The protection and promotion of fundamental rights contributes to the construction of a more democratic Union. Non-discrimination is a core principle of the Union enshrined in Article 19 TFEU and in Article 21 of the Charter. Working towards an equal and discrimination-free society contributes to untapping the potential of individuals in their diversity and to cultural, economic and social growth. It also helps to address important root causes of violence against vulnerable groups, which in turn is a frontal attack on equality. Therefore, the Programme should promote actions to address all forms of discrimination and intolerance, namely direct and indirect discrimination, paying attention to the specific forms of structural and intersectional discrimination, with a view to supporting relevant Union policy frameworks. The Programme should support actions to prevent and combat all forms of xenophobia and racism, antisemitism and anti-Muslim hatred, homophobia, biphobia, transphobia, interphobia, intolerance and discrimination based on gender identity, intolerance towards persons belonging to minorities including Roma, as well as hate speech. The Programme should also contribute to enabling the Union to deliver on the commitment taken as Party to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities adopted on 13 December 200614 to promote, protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities.(15) The respect for, protection and promotion of fundamental rights contributes to the construction of a more democratic Union. Non-discrimination is a core principle of the Union enshrined in Article 19 TFEU and in Article 21 of the Charter. Working towards an equal and discrimination-free society contributes to untapping the potential of individuals in their diversity and to cultural, economic and social growth. It also helps to address important root causes of violence against groups in vulnerable situations, which in turn is a frontal attack on equality. Therefore, the Programme should promote actions to address all forms of discrimination and intolerance, including direct, indirect, structural and intersectional discrimination, with a view to protecting groups in vulnerable situations and supporting relevant Union policy frameworks. The Programme should support actions to prevent and combat all forms of xenophobia and racism, antisemitism, anti-Muslim hatred, Afrophobia, anty-Gypsyism, lesbophobia, homophobia, biphobia, transphobia, interphobia, intolerance and discrimination based on gender identity and towards persons belonging to minorities, as well as hate speech, both online and offline. In that context, particular attention should also be paid to preventing and combating all forms of violence, hatred, segregation and stigmatisation, as well as combating bullying, harassment and intolerant treatment. The Programme should also contribute to enabling the Union to deliver on the commitment taken as a Party to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities adopted on 13 December 2006 to promote, protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities.
14 OJ L 23, 27.01.2010, p. 35-36

Or. en

Amendment 27

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 17

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(17) Gender equality is a fundamental right and an objective of the Union and should be supported by the Programme. Despite many achievements, significant challenges remain, which require to reinforce the Union’s commitment. This includes working towards freedom from gender-based violence, the highest standards of health, including in particular sexual and reproductive health, equal pay and economic empowerment, work-life balance and care, equal employment, career opportunities and working conditions, quality and inclusive education, political participation and equal representation, institutional mechanisms that deliver on women’s rights, actively tackling gender stereotypes and addressing intersectional discrimination.(17) Gender equality is a fundamental right and an objective of the Union. The promotion of gender equality and gender mainstreaming in all activities of the Union is therefore a core task for the Union and a driver for social development, and it should be supported and promoted by the Programme. Despite the progress achieved, significant challenges remain, including persistent structural inequalities, gender stereotypes, economic disparities and coordinated backlash against women’s and LGBTIQ rights, which require the Union’s reinforced and sustained commitment to address them. The Roadmap for Women’s Rights and Declaration of principles for a gender-equal society adopted in 2025 requires concrete implementation through effective policies and adequate financial support. This includes combating all forms of gender-based violence, online and offline, achieving the highest standards of health, including in particular sexual and reproductive health and rights, including safe and legal abortion, equal pay for equal work or work for equal value and economic empowerment, work-life balance and care, equal employment, career opportunities and working conditions, quality and inclusive education, political participation and equal representation, institutional mechanisms that deliver on women’s rights, actively tackling gender stereotypes and addressing intersectional discrimination.

Or. en

Amendment 28

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 18

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(18) Gender-based violence and violence against women, children, young persons and other groups at risk, such as LGBTIQ persons and persons with disabilities, constitute a serious violation of fundamental rights and continue to persist throughout the Union, in all social and economic contexts. Violence against women and persons belonging to other groups at risk is a violation of human rights and a frontal attack on equality. Thus, preventing and addressing such violence is a societal imperative and contributes to tackling such discrimination as well as addressing the impacts of violence, including on health. At the same time, ensuring a discrimination-free society will also help address the root causes of violence against vulnerable groups, since they are intrinsically linked. Therefore, the Programme should continue the longstanding Union effort in preventing, responding to and fighting violence at all levels as well as in protecting and supporting all direct and indirect victims and survivors of violence, building on the five consecutive generations of the Daphne programme and strand17. The Programme should support the achievement of the objectives of the Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women adopted in Istanbul on 11 May 2011, the implementation of the Commission Recommendation on developing and strengthening integrated child protection systems in the best interests of the child18 , which protects children from any form of violence, as well as contribute to enabling the Union to deliver on the commitment taken as Party to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which protects persons with disabilities against any form of exploitation, violence and abuse.(18) Gender-based violence and violence against women, children, young persons and other groups at risk, such as LGBTIQ persons, persons with disabilities, racialized people, migrants, refugees and asylum seekers, as well as persons from disadvantaged backgrounds, constitute a serious violation of fundamental rights and continue to persist throughout the Union, in all social and economic contexts. Preventing and addressing such violence requires sustained, structural, long-term and adequately resourced financial support for women's rights organisations and women's specialist services, which serve as frontline responders across Member States and possess the specialised expertise necessary to tackle the root causes and manifestations of gender-based violence. Violence against women, children and persons belonging to other groups at risk is one of the most widespread violations of human rights and a frontal attack on equality. Thus, preventing and addressing such violence is a societal imperative and contributes to tackling such discrimination as well as addressing the impacts of violence, including on health. At the same time, ensuring a discrimination-free society will also help address the root causes of violence against groups in vulnerable situations, since they are intrinsically linked. Therefore, the Programme should continue and strengthen the longstanding Union effort in preventing, responding to and fighting violence at all levels as well as in protecting and supporting all direct and indirect victims and survivors of violence, building on the five consecutive generations of the Daphne programme and strand17. The Programme should support the achievement of the objectives and the implementation of the Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women adopted in Istanbul on 11 May 2011, Directive (EU) 2024/1385 of the European Parliament and of the Council17a, the Commission’s Equality and Anti-Racism Strategies, the Recommendation on developing and strengthening integrated child protection systems in the best interests of the child18, which protects children from any form of violence, as well as other relevant Union legislation, policies and recommendations. The Programme should also contribute to deliver the Union’s commitment taken as a Party to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which protects persons with disabilities against any form of exploitation, violence and abuse.
17 Three consecutive generations of the Daphne programme ( OJ L 34, 9.2.2000, p. 1; OJ L 143, 30.4.2004, p. 1; OJ L 173, 3.7.2007, p. 19–26), and the results of the Daphne strands of the Rights, Equality and Citizenship Programme (OJ L 354, 28.12.2013, p. 62–72 ) and the CERV Programme (OJ L 156, 5.5.2021, p. 1–20).17 Three consecutive generations of the Daphne programme ( OJ L 34, 9.2.2000, p. 1; OJ L 143, 30.4.2004, p. 1; OJ L 173, 3.7.2007, p. 19–26), and the results of the Daphne strands of the Rights, Equality and Citizenship Programme (OJ L 354, 28.12.2013, p. 62–72 ) and the CERV Programme (OJ L 156, 5.5.2021, p. 1–20).
17a Directive (EU) 2024/1385 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 May 2024 on combating violence against women and domestic violence (OJ L, 2024/1385, 24.5.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2024/1385/oj).
18 C(2024) 2680 final (OJ L, 2024/1238, 14.5.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reco/2024/1238/oj).18 C(2024) 2680 final (OJ L, 2024/1238, 14.5.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reco/2024/1238/oj).

Or. en

Amendment 29

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 18 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(18a) In view of the persistently alarming number of victims of gender-based violence, it is important to continue funding actions to prevent and combat all forms of gender-based violence with an independent and non-transferable budget allocation under the Daphne strand. In particular, the Daphne strand should support prevention actions, such as awareness-raising activities, the provision of support services to victims and the actions of civil society organisations working on the ground, as well as actions addressing all forms of gender based violence, including domestic violence, sexual violence, trafficking in human beings and harmful traditional practices, such as female genital mutilation, as well as online violence, such as cyber-bullying, non-consensual sharing of intimate material, stalking and online harassment. The Programme should also pay particular attention to marginalised groups and ensure an intersectional perspective.

Or. en

Amendment 30

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 18 b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(18b) While there is no hierarchy among Union values enshrined in Article 2 TEU, respect for the rule of law is inseparable for the protection of the other fundamental values on which the Union is founded, such as freedom, democracy, equality and respect for human rights. Respect for the rule of law is intrinsically linked to respect for democracy and for fundamental rights. There can be no democracy and respect for fundamental rights without respect for the rule of law and vice versa. The rule of law requires that all public powers act within the constraints set out by law, in accordance with the values and principles of democracy and respect for fundamental rights as stipulated in the Charter and other applicable instruments, and under the control of independent and impartial courts. It requires, in particular, the principles of legality, implying a transparent, accountable, democratic and pluralistic law-making process, legal certainty, prohibition of arbitrariness of the executive powers, effective judicial protection, including access to justice served by independent and impartial courts, and separation of powers. The Programme should ensure complementarity with the Justice Programme.

Or. en

Amendment 31

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 18 c (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(18c) While the Union has guidelines and funding allocated to support human rights defenders from outside the Union, nothing similar exists for civil society actors such as human rights defenders operating within the Union. Civic space is increasingly subject to a multitude of tactics such as intimidation, threats, attacks, harassment, including online and legal harassment, digital censorship, smear campaigns, barriers on access to funding, criminalisation of activism and journalistic activities, and restrictions on the rights to peaceful assembly and association. The establishment of a holistic and independent European Union Rapid Response Facility comprising a Union early warning system and an emergency response mechanism encompassing protection actions at both Union and national levels is essential to protect and promote civic space resilience and democracy. Such a European Union Rapid Response Facility should be established building on the principles and models successfully employed under the European Union Human Rights Defenders Mechanism and under the Media Freedom Rapid Response, while taking into account and catering to the particularities and specific challenges of beneficiaries operating within the territory of the Union. Beneficiaries of the European Union Rapid Response Facility should be civic space actors under threat because of their work on fundamental rights, paying special attention to human rights defenders and civil society organisations.

Or. en

Amendment 32

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 18 d (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(18d) For the purpose of this Regulation, civic space actors should be understood as comprising a wide range of actors with multiple roles and mandates which may vary over time and across institutions and Member States, and should include all independent non-State, not-for-profit and non-violent structures, through which people organise the pursuit of shared objectives and ideals, whether political, cultural, religious, environmental, social or economic, which operate at local, regional, national, or transnational levels, which comprise urban and rural, as well as formal and informal organisations, regardless of whether they are recognised under national law, and that work for the defence and promotion of Union values enshrined in Article 2 TEU. Civic space actors should be understood as including, in particular, civil society organisations, human rights defenders and think tanks.

Or. en

Amendment 33

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 19

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(19) In accordance with Union acquis on equal treatment, the Member States have set up independent bodies for the promotion of equal treatment (‘equality bodies’), which play a key role in promoting equality and ensuring the effective application of equal treatment legislation. Further, the Programme should support the European Network of Equality Bodies (Equinet) composed of the national equality bodies as provided for by Council Directive (EU) 2024/149919 and Directive (EU) 2024/1500 of the European Parliament and of the Council20 , since Equinet is the only entity which ensures coordination of activities between equality bodies. This is of key importance for the effective implementation of Union anti-discrimination law in the Member States.(19) In accordance with Union acquis on equal treatment, the Member States have set up independent bodies for the promotion of equal treatment (‘equality bodies’), which play a key role in promoting equality and ensuring the effective application of equal treatment legislation, in particular by providing independent assistance to victims of discrimination, conducting independent surveys concerning discrimination, publishing independent reports and making recommendations on any issue relating to discrimination in their respective Member States. Further, the Programme should support the European Network of Equality Bodies (Equinet) composed of the national equality bodies as provided for by Council Directive (EU) 2024/149919 and Directive (EU) 2024/1500 of the European Parliament and of the Council20, since Equinet is the only entity which ensures coordination of activities between equality bodies. This is of key importance for the effective implementation of Union anti-discrimination law in the Member States.
19 Council Directive (EU) 2024/1499 of 7 May 2024 on standards for equality bodies in the field of equal treatment between persons irrespective of their racial or ethnic origin, equal treatment in matters of employment and occupation between persons irrespective of their religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation, equal treatment between women and men in matters of social security and in the access to and supply of goods and services, and amending Directives 2000/43/EC and 2004/113/EC (OJ L, 2024/1499, 29.5.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2024/1499/oj).19 Council Directive (EU) 2024/1499 of 7 May 2024 on standards for equality bodies in the field of equal treatment between persons irrespective of their racial or ethnic origin, equal treatment in matters of employment and occupation between persons irrespective of their religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation, equal treatment between women and men in matters of social security and in the access to and supply of goods and services, and amending Directives 2000/43/EC and 2004/113/EC (OJ L, 2024/1499, 29.5.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2024/1499/oj).
20 Directive (EU) 2024/1500 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 May 2024 on standards for equality bodies in the field of equal treatment and equal opportunities between women and men in matters of employment and occupation, and amending Directives 2006/54/EC and 2010/41/EU (OJ L, 2024/1500, 29.5.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2024/1500/oj).20 Directive (EU) 2024/1500 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 May 2024 on standards for equality bodies in the field of equal treatment and equal opportunities between women and men in matters of employment and occupation, and amending Directives 2006/54/EC and 2010/41/EU (OJ L, 2024/1500, 29.5.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2024/1500/oj).

Or. en

Amendment 34

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 20

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(20) Citizens throughout the Union, many of whom regularly or at least occasionally travel to, live, study, work or volunteer in another Member State, should feel able to enjoy and exercise their citizenship rights and to place their trust in equal access, full enforceability and protection of their rights without any discrimination, no matter where in the Union they happen to be. Citizens should be more aware of their rights deriving from citizenship of the Union, namely their right to move and reside freely in the Union, their voting rights when residing in another Member State, their right to petition the European Parliament in any of the official languages, their right to submit citizens' initiatives and their right to lodge complaints with the European ombudsman against institutional maladministration.(20) Citizens throughout the Union, many of whom regularly or at least occasionally travel to, live, study, work or volunteer in another Member State, should feel able to enjoy and exercise their citizenship rights and to place their trust in equal access, full enforceability and protection of their rights without any discrimination, no matter where in the Union they happen to be. Citizens should be more aware of their rights deriving from citizenship of the Union, namely their right to move and reside freely in the Union, their voting rights when residing in another Member State, their right to petition the European Parliament in any of the official languages, their right to submit citizens' initiatives, including European citizens’ initiatives, and their right to lodge complaints with the European ombudsman against institutional maladministration.

Or. en

Amendment 35

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 21

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(21) Encouraging citizens to play a more active role in democracy at Union level will strengthen European civil society and foster the development of a European identity. Civil society therefore needs to be supported in promoting, safeguarding and raising awareness of Union values and in contributing to the effective enjoyment of rights under Union law. When Union citizens participate in the democratic life of the Union, they contribute to making a reality representative democracy, a principle on which the functioning of the Union is founded and which gives concrete expression to the value of democracy enshrined in Article 2 TEU.(21) Ensuring that citizens can play a more active role in strengthening democracy at Union level will promote civic participation in policy-making, European civil society and foster the development of a European identity. Civil society therefore needs to be supported in promoting, safeguarding, monitoring and raising awareness of Union values and in contributing to the effective enjoyment of rights under Union law. When Union citizens participate and engage in the democratic life of the Union, they contribute to making a reality representative democracy, a principle on which the functioning of the Union is founded and which gives concrete expression to the value of democracy enshrined in Article 2 TEU.

Or. en

Amendment 36

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 22

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(22) In order to bring the Union closer to its citizens and to foster democratic participation, a variety of actions and coordinated efforts are necessary. European citizenship and European identity should be developed and advanced by encouraging citizens’ understanding of the policy-making process, and by promoting civic engagement in the actions of the Union. Remembrance activities and critical reflection on Europe’s historical memory are necessary to make citizens aware of the common history, and to lay the foundation for a common future and shared values. Furthermore, supporting civil society organisations at local, regional, national and transnational level in the areas covered by the Programme will contribute to increasing citizens’ engagement in society and ultimately to their active involvement in the democratic life of the Union. At the same time, supporting activities that promote mutual understanding, intercultural dialogue, cultural and linguistic diversity, social inclusion and respect for others fosters a sense of belonging to the Union and of a common citizenship under a European identity, based on a shared understanding of our common European values, culture, history and heritage.(22) In order to bring the Union closer to its citizens and to foster democratic participation and engagement, a variety of actions and coordinated efforts are necessary. European citizenship and European identity should be developed and advanced by ensuring citizens’ understanding of the policy-making process, and by promoting civic engagement in the actions of the Union as well as an open, transparent and regular dialogue with civil society. Remembrance activities and critical reflection on Europe’s historical memory are necessary to make citizens aware of the common history, and to lay the foundation for a common future and commitment to protect and promote the Union values enshrined in Article 2 TEU. Furthermore, the Programme should also aim to support civil society organisations at local, regional, national and transnational level in the areas covered by the Programme, which will contribute to increasing citizens’ engagement in society and ultimately to their active involvement in the democratic life of the Union. At the same time, supporting activities that promote mutual understanding, intercultural dialogue, cultural and linguistic diversity, social inclusion and respect for others fosters a sense of belonging to the Union and of a common citizenship under a European identity, based on a shared understanding of our common European values enshrined in Article 2 TEU, culture, history and heritage.

Or. en

Amendment 37

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 23

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(23) Civil society organisations, and other civic space actors, such as independent human rights bodies, equality bodies and Ombudspersons Institutions, play a vital role in contributing to the implementation of policy, encouraging people’s participation, holding institutions accountable, and driving positive change. The Programme should help ensure sufficient resources and an enabling environment for them to operate independently, freely, safely, and effectively. To this end, Union funding should complement efforts at national level by supporting, protecting, empowering and building their capacity, as emphasised in the European Parliament resolution of 19 April 201821 , as well as Council conclusions of 10 March 202322 and 7 March 202523 . Civil society also plays an important role in ensuring an effective implementation of Directive (EU) 2019/1937 of the European Parliament and of the Council24 by fostering a speak-up culture and a favourable environment for whistleblowers.(23) Civil society organisations, and other civic space actors, such as independent human rights bodies, equality bodies and Ombudspersons Institutions, play a vital role in the system of checks and balances of a democratic society, as well as in contributing to the implementation of policy, encouraging people’s participation, holding institutions accountable, and driving positive change, including, inter alia, through advocacy, contributions to policy-making, strategic litigation, campaigning, communication and other watchdog activities. The Programme should acknowledge the importance of and ensure the granting of sufficient resources to civil society organisations working to protect and promote Union values in Article 2 TEU, as well as an enabling environment for them to operate independently, freely, safely, and effectively. In order to ensure the independence and sustainability of civil society organisations, the Programme should provide for predictable and multiannual award of operating grants. To this end, Union funding should be consistent with and complement efforts at national level by supporting, protecting, empowering and building their capacity, as emphasised in the European Parliament resolution of 19 April 201821, as well as Council conclusions of 10 March 202322 and 7 March 202523. Particular attention should be paid to the accessibility of the Programme for civil society organisations at local, regional, national and transnational level, including local grassroots civil society organisations, working for the promotion and protection of Union values enshrined in Article 2 TEU. That shall include the simplification of administrative burden to access Union funding and the provision of financial support to third parties, where appropriate. In particular, in Member States where civic space is shrinking or where civil society organisations face legal, administrative or financial restrictions, the Programme should prioritise support aimed at safeguarding their independence, operational capacity, core infrastructure and legal assistance, such as pro-bono lawyers, and could also support civil society organisations in addressing threats and attacks, such as smear campaigns and strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs), including by representing civil society in court and providing legal advice. The EU Strategy for Civil Society states that the Commission will work to connect communities of pro-bono lawyers with civil society organisations across sectors and in need of support, so as to facilitate support on administrative, mobility, legal and financial matters. The Programme should also support efforts in that regard.
21 2018/2619(RSP) (OJ C 390, 18.11.2019, p. 117–119, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal content/EN/TXT/?uri=oj:JOC_2019_390_R_0017)21 2018/2619(RSP) (OJ C 390, 18.11.2019, p. 117–119, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal content/EN/TXT/?uri=oj:JOC_2019_390_R_0017)
22 ST-7388/23, Council Conclusions on the application of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights; The role of the civic space in protecting and promoting fundamental rights in the EU22 ST-7388/23, Council Conclusions on the application of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights; The role of the civic space in protecting and promoting fundamental rights in the EU
23 ST-6878/25, Council Conclusions on the application of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights: funding to promote, protect and enforce fundamental rights23 ST-6878/25, Council Conclusions on the application of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights: funding to promote, protect and enforce fundamental rights
24 Directive (EU) 2019/1937 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 October 2019 on the protection of persons who report breaches of Union law (OJ L 305, 26.11.2019, p. 17, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2019/1937/oj).

Or. en

Amendment 38

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 23 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(23a) Civil society also plays an important role in ensuring an effective implementation of Directive (EU) 2019/1937 of the European Parliament and of the Council1a by fostering a speak-up culture and a favourable environment for whistleblowers, of Directive (EU) 2024/1069 of the European Parliament and of the Council1b, as well as the relevant Commission Recommendations. SLAPPs are practices aimed at preventing, restricting or penalising public participation, and can also involve administrative or criminal cases or a combination of different types of proceedings. The Programme should also support actions designed to prevent and address SLAPPs, in full complementarity with the Justice Programme.
1a Directive (EU) 2019/1937 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 October 2019 on the protection of persons who report breaches of Union law (OJ L 305, 26.11.2019, p. 17, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2019/1937/oj).
1b Directive (EU) 2024/1069 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 April 2024 on protecting persons who engage in public participation from manifestly unfounded claims or abusive court proceedings (‘Strategic lawsuits against public participation’) (OJ L, 2024/1069, 16.4.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2024/1069/oj).

Or. en

Amendment 39

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 23 b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(23b) In its political guidelines 2024-2029, the Commission has committed to step up its engagement with civil society organisations that have expertise and an important role to play in defending specific societal issues and upholding Union values enshrined in Article 2 TEU. Article 11(2) TEU lays down that Union institutions should maintain an open, transparent and regular dialogue with representative associations and civil society organisations. Guaranteeing access to structural funding is a prerequisite to ensuring public participation without which it would not be possible for citizens to have their voice channelled at the Union level through their representative associations, sustain a regular dialogue with Union institutions contributing to democratic participation in policy making, an open and wide-ranging dialogue, ensuring that the diversity of views and concerns are taken into account with equal access for public interest as compared to commercial interest, exercise a monitoring role on the implementation of Union policies and legislation, including the use of Union funds and compliance with Union values. Union funding plays a crucial role in enabling civil society organisations to perform their role as watchdogs and engage in activities to hold public authorities accountable, such as countering corruption, fostering citizen participation and engagement, and investigative journalism, providing policymakers with fact-based evidence and best practices from the ground, as well as related to the provision of social services, particularly for marginalised communities. Therefore, such activities should remain eligible and have sufficient dedicated funding available under the Programme.

Or. en

Amendment 40

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 23 c (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(23c) By way of derogation from Article 192(1) of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 of the European Parliament and of the Council1a, the Union should be able to provide support in the form of grants in a flexible and timely manner without the need for a call for proposals, for example, in difficult conditions and cases of urgency and crisis, to support human rights defenders and other civil society actors. Under the conditions set out in Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509, grants funded by the Programme could also be provided to civil society organisations and other entities which do not have legal personality under the applicable national law.
1a Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 September 2024 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union (OJ L, 2024/2509, 26.9.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/2509/oj).

Or. en

Amendment 41

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 25

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(25) At a time when European societies face challenges that affect democracies, such as raise of extremisms and intolerance, disinformation and foreign information manipulation and interference by hostile actors, it is crucial that Union values such as respect for fundamental rights, equality and democracy, continue to be actively cultivated, protected, promoted, enforced, and shared among citizens and peoples, so that those values remain at the heart of the Union project. A deterioration in their protection in any Member State can have detrimental effects on the Union as a whole. It is therefore crucial that this Programme contributes to protecting Union values, including respect for fundamental rights, equality and democracy.(25) At a time when European societies face challenges that affect democracies, such as raise of extremisms, intolerance, disinformation and foreign information manipulation and interference by hostile actors, including anti-rights and anti-gender actors, it is crucial that Union values such as respect for fundamental rights, equality, gender equality and democracy, continue to be actively cultivated, protected, respected, promoted, enforced, and shared among citizens and peoples, so that those values remain at the heart of the Union project. A deterioration in their protection in any Member State can have detrimental effects on the Union as a whole. Moreover, the freeze of funds of the United States Agency for International Development and national budget restrictions are having a significant impact on civil society across the Union. Existing Union programmes offer only short-term, project-based support, making it difficult to retain skilled staff or build long-term monitoring and response capacity. It is therefore crucial that this Programme contributes to protecting Union values enshrined in Article 2 TEU, including respect for fundamental rights, equality and democracy. Particular attention should be paid to ensure that no Union funding is made available to anti-rights and anti-gender actors, groups or entities that aim to roll back advances in gender equality, diversity and inclusion, in particular women’s rights, the rights of LGBTIQ persons and other groups at risk, or whose work contributes to erode fundamental rights as outlined in the Charter.

Or. en

Amendment 42

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 25 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(25a) Democratic resilience in the digital age requires robust ecosystems of independent organisations that are capable of monitoring, analysing, and responding to threats to electoral integrity and informed public debate. Civil society organisations specialising in digital rights, fact-checking entities, internet governance experts, independent news media outlets, and researchers combating foreign information manipulation perform critical watchdog functions that complement, but remain distinct from, state enforcement mechanisms. Those organisations provide essential transparency regarding platform governance, identify coordinated inauthentic behaviour, verify information during electoral periods, and expose attempts by both foreign and domestic malicious actors to weaponise social media networks against democratic processes. Their work is vital as social media have become a primary platform for both political participation and manipulation. Democratic resilience requires specialised expertise that combines technology, human rights, and democratic governance. Those organisations face coordinated pressure, including legal intimidation, funding restrictions, and politically motivated attacks that seek to undermine their credibility and independence precisely because their oversight functions expose attempts to undermine democratic systems. Ensuring the financial sustainability, legal protection, and operational independence of a vibrant civil society ecosystem is not merely supportive of democracy but also critical to it. Without credible, independent monitors of digital information spaces, citizens cannot exercise informed democratic choice, and malicious actors face diminished consequences for subverting electoral processes. Union support in that context should prioritise strengthening the resilience and independence of those organisations against both resource constraints and retaliatory pressures. Recognising the ability of those organisations to freely operate directly supports the integrity of democratic participation in increasingly digitalised societies.

Or. en

Amendment 43

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 26

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(26) In light of increasing risks linked to natural hazards, climate and environmental disasters, health emergencies, technological accidents, evolving security threats, and other disruptions, it is essential to enhance the Union’s and Member States’ capability to anticipate, prepare for, and respond to crises. The Programme should therefore support citizens’ education and engagement on crisis preparedness thus enhancing societal resilience.(26) In light of increasing risks linked to natural hazards, climate and environmental disasters as a consequence of climate change, health emergencies, technological accidents, evolving security threats, and other disruptions, it is essential to enhance the Union’s and Member States’ capability to anticipate, prepare for, and respond to crises. The Programme should therefore support citizens’ education and engagement on crisis preparedness and climate adaptation, thus enhancing societal resilience

Or. en

Amendment 44

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 27

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(27) Hence, the Programme should also support actions aiming at safeguarding and strengthening democracy in the Union, reinforcing public trust in democracy and democratic institutions, strengthening democratic preparedness and resilience, fostering citizens’ engagement, participation and awareness of common history and values, thereby supporting citizens’ exercise of their rights, including their electoral rights, in full respect of Member States’ competences in the organisation of elections. The Programme should also contribute to fostering critical thinking, civic participation and democracy through education as a lifelong effort, so that all citizens have the skills to recognise foreign information, manipulation and interference and disinformation.(27) The Programme should also support actions aiming at safeguarding and strengthening democracy in the Union, reinforcing public trust in democracy and democratic institutions, strengthening democratic preparedness and resilience, fostering citizens’ engagement, participation and awareness of common history and values, thereby supporting citizens’ exercise of their rights, including their electoral rights, in full respect of Member States’ competences in the organisation of elections. The Programme should also contribute to fostering critical thinking, civic participation and democracy through education as a lifelong effort, so that all citizens have the skills to recognise foreign information, manipulation and interference and disinformation.

Or. en

Amendment 45

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 28

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(28) The Programme should foster synergies and complementarity with Global Europe as it will contribute to the advancement of the Union’s international cultural relations and to the Union’s external action objectives through cultural cooperation.(28) The Programme should foster synergies and complementarity with Global Europe as it will contribute to the advancement of the Union’s international cultural relations and to the Union’s external action objectives, in line with the objectives of the Programme. In that context, actions under the Programme should be carried out in complementarity and synergy with the European Competitiveness Fund (ECF), including, where relevant, through financial instruments established under the ECF framework or other instruments, such as Horizon Europe, in particular with regard to access to finance, scaling-up of innovation, technological capacity-building and cross-border investment in the cultural, information and civil society sectors.

Or. en

Amendment 46

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 28 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(28a) In addition to the provisions on the expenditure tracking and the performance framework for the budget laid down in Regulation (EU) [XXX] of the European Parliament and of the Council [Performance Regulation]1a, the Programme should, in all its strands, sectors and activities, support social inclusion and participation, equality, including gender equality, diversity, accessibility, independence and pluralism, as well as safe and fair working conditions. Gender mainstreaming should be applied at every stage of the funding cycle, which includes design, implementation, monitoring, reporting, evaluation and auditing. The evaluation of the Programme should assess the extent to which the activities under the Programme contribute to promote gender equality. In that context and taking into account the different nature and size of the activities of the different strands of the Programme, gender equality indicators and disaggregated data should be used and collected by project promoters. Applicants should also receive information on how to take gender equality into account, including on the use of gender mainstreaming tools such as gender budgeting and gender impact assessments where necessary. The Programme should also apply social conditionality, which is understood as the respect for minimum social standards such as labour rights, decent working conditions, non-discrimination, accessibility, and fair and equal remuneration taking into account applicable Union and national labour and social legislation, including relevant collective agreements. For that reason it is essential to establish independent AgoraEU monitoring, as an essential tool providing analysis of the trends in the application of the Programme. The outcomes of such monitoring should be duly taken into consideration in preparation of the work programme.
1a Regulation (EU) …/… of the European Parliament and of the Council of … establishing a budget expenditure tracking and performance framework and other horizontal rules for the Union programmes and activities (OJ L…).

Or. en

Amendment 47

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 28 b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(28b) Local and regional authorities play an important role in upholding democratic values and norms and in safeguarding the rule of law and universal human rights. They often represent a powerful counterbalance to rule of law backsliding and the democratic deficit across the Union. To that effect, the Programme should ensure that adequate support is given to local and regional authorities and that multilevel governance and partnership principles, alongside the European Charter of Local Self-Government and the Charter, are respected.

Or. en

Amendment 48

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 28 c (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(28c) Following the precedent of the programme-specific adjustment established under the 2021–2027 Multiannual Financial Framework and taking into account the significant risks and negative effects that digital market dominance poses to culture, news, democracy and fundamental rights, including job loss, copyright infringement, declining cultural discoverability, market distortion, and the spread of information manipulation and disinformation, revenues from fines imposed under Regulations (EU) 2022/19251a, (EU) 2022/20651b, and (EU) 2024/16891c of the European Parliament and of the Council should made available as an additional allocation of commitment and payment appropriations to the Programme.
1a Regulation (EU) 2022/1925 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 September 2022 on contestable and fair markets in the digital sector and amending Directives (EU) 2019/1937 and (EU) 2020/1828 (Digital Markets Act) (OJ L 265, 12.10.2022, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2022/1925/oj).
1b Regulation (EU) 2022/2065 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 October 2022 on a Single Market For Digital Services and amending Directive 2000/31/EC (Digital Services Act) (OJ L 277, 27.10.2022, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2022/2065/oj).
1c Regulation (EU) 2024/1689 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 June 2024 laying down harmonised rules on artificial intelligence and amending Regulations (EC) No 300/2008, (EU) No 167/2013, (EU) No 168/2013, (EU) 2018/858, (EU) 2018/1139 and (EU) 2019/2144 and Directives 2014/90/EU, (EU) 2016/797 and (EU) 2020/1828 (Artificial Intelligence Act) (OJ L, 2024/1689, 12.7.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1689/oj).

Or. en

Amendment 49

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 33

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(33) Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 of the European Parliament and of the Council27 applies to the Programme. It lays down the rules on the establishment and the implementation of the general budget of the Union, including the rules on grants, prizes, non-financial donations, procurement, indirect implementation, financial assistance, financial instruments and budgetary guarantees.(33) Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 of the European Parliament and of the Council27 applies to the Programme. It lays down the rules on the establishment and the implementation of the general budget of the Union, including the rules on grants, prizes, non-financial donations, procurement, indirect implementation, financial assistance, financial instruments and budgetary guarantees. In particular, rules concerning the possibility for local, regional, national and transnational entities to be funded through multiannual operating grants, financial support to third parties, 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 the Programme. The lump-sum funding approach under previous funding programmes was very rigid, with the structure being primarily built around events, funded on the basis of numbers of participants and participating countries, rather than actual costs. A rigid equation of funding with event delivery risks that support from the Programme is effectively inaccessible to entities with limited event capacity, regardless of how much their expertise could deliver for the call's thematic objectives. The Programme should support a more flexible funding model, which would allow a broader range of entities to contribute meaningfully to the attainment of the objectives of the Programme. Simplified reporting requirements should be imposed on recipients of funds under the Programme as well as clearer guidance materials and more transparent feedback for unsuccessful applicants.
19 Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 September 2024 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union (OJ L, 2024/2509, 26.9.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/2509/oj).19 Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 September 2024 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union (OJ L, 2024/2509, 26.9.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/2509/oj).

Or. en

Amendment 50

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 34

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(34) In accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509, Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council28, Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 2988/9529, Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/9630 and Council Regulation (EU) 2017/193931, 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 Regulations (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 and (Euratom, EC) No 2185/96, the European Anti-Fraud Office (‘OLAF’) may carry out 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 illegal activities affecting the financial interests of the Union as provided for in Directive (EU) 2017/1371 of the European Parliament and of the Council32. In accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509, 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, EPPO and the European Court of Auditors and to ensure that any third parties involved in the implementation of Union funds grant equivalent rights.(34) In accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509, Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council28, Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 2988/9529, Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/9630 and Council Regulation (EU) 2017/193931, the financial interests of the Union are to be protected through proportionate measures, including the prevention, detection, correction and investigation of irregularities, including fraud, the recovery of funds lost, wrongly paid or incorrectly used and, where appropriate, the imposition of administrative sanctions. In particular, in accordance with Regulations (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 and (Euratom, EC) No 2185/96, the European Anti-Fraud Office (‘OLAF’) may carry out 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 illegal activities affecting the financial interests of the Union as provided for in Directive (EU) 2017/1371 of the European Parliament and of the Council32. In accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509, 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, EPPO and the European Court of Auditors and to ensure that any third parties involved in the implementation of Union funds grant equivalent rights.
28 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, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2013/883/oj).28 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, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2013/883/oj).
29 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, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/1995/2988/oj).29 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, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/1995/2988/oj).
30 Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/96 of 11 November 1996 concerning on-the-spot checks and inspections carried out by the Commission in order to protect the European Communities' financial interests against fraud and other irregularities (OJ L 292, 15.11.1996, p. 2, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/1996/2185/oj).30 Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/96 of 11 November 1996 concerning on-the-spot checks and inspections carried out by the Commission in order to protect the European Communities' financial interests against fraud and other irregularities (OJ L 292, 15.11.1996, p. 2, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/1996/2185/oj).
31 Council Regulation (EU) 2017/1939 of 12 October 2017 implementing enhanced cooperation on the establishment of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (‘the EPPO’) (OJ L 283, 31.10.2017, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2017/1939/oj).31 Council Regulation (EU) 2017/1939 of 12 October 2017 implementing enhanced cooperation on the establishment of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (‘the EPPO’) (OJ L 283, 31.10.2017, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2017/1939/oj).
32 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, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2017/1371/oj).32 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, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2017/1371/oj).

Or. en

Amendment 51

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 35

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(35) The Programme is to be implemented in accordance with Regulation (EU) [XXX]* of the European Parliament and of the Council [Performance] which establishes the rules for the expenditure tracking and the performance framework for the budget, including rules for ensuring a uniform application of the principles of ‘do no significant harm’ and gender equality referred to in Article 33(2), points (d) and (f), of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 respectively, rules for monitoring and reporting on the performance of Union programmes and activities, rules for establishing a Union funding portal, rules for the evaluation of the programmes, as well as other horizontal provisions applicable to all Union programmes such as those on information, communication and visibility, while taking into account the scope and nature of the activities and priorities.(35) The Programme is to be implemented in accordance with Regulation (EU) [XXX]* of the European Parliament and of the Council [Performance] which establishes the rules for the expenditure tracking and the performance framework for the budget, including rules for ensuring a uniform application of the principles of ‘do no significant harm’ and gender equality referred to in Article 33(2), points (d) and (f), of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 respectively, rules for monitoring and reporting on the performance of Union programmes and activities, rules for establishing a Union funding portal, rules for the evaluation of the programmes, as well as other horizontal provisions applicable to all Union programmes such as those on information, communication and visibility, while taking into account the scope and nature of the activities and priorities. In addition to this and in order to ensure the effective assessment of the Programme’s progress towards the achievement of its objectives, the power to adopt acts in accordance with Article 290 TFEU should be delegated to the Commission in respect of amending the indicators as referred to in Annex II and in respect of supplementing this Regulation with provisions on the establishment of a monitoring and evaluation framework. It is of particular importance that the Commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work, including at expert level, and that those consultations be conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in the Interinstitutional Agreement of 13 April 2016 on Better Law-Making1a. In particular, to ensure equal participation in the preparation of delegated acts, the European Parliament and the Council receive all documents at the same time as Member States’ experts, and their experts systematically have access to meetings of Commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts.
1a OJ L 123, 12.5.2016, p. 1, http://data.europa.eu/eli/agree_interinstit/2016/512/oj .

Or. en

Amendment 52

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 36

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(36) The Programme should also support the role of Programme Desks, which Member States have the possibility to establish, and which should provide guidance and assistance to applicants on funding opportunities and cross-border collaborations, contributing to the Programme’s outreach visibility and dissemination in accordance with Regulation (EU) [XXX]* of the European Parliament and of the Council [Performance]. Programme Desks should carry out their functions independently and without interference from public authorities in their decision making, and ought not to have any responsibility regarding the management of the programme33.(36) The Programme should also support the role of Programme Desks and Contact Points, which Member States should establish, and which should provide guidance and information to both applicants and beneficiaries on funding opportunities, including relevant information on the various types of financial support available under Union policy, assistance to apply for support under the Programme, and information regarding possible cross-border collaborations, contributing to the outreach visibility and dissemination of the Programme results in accordance with Regulation (EU) [XXX]* of the European Parliament and of the Council [Performance Regulation] which establishes the rules for the expenditure tracking and the performance framework for the budget, including the rules applicable to all Union programmes regarding information, communication and visibility obligations, including in particular obligations for beneficiaries and implementing partners. Programme Desks and Contact Points should carry out their functions independently and without interference from public authorities in their decision making, and ought not to have any responsibility regarding the management of the programme33. In those Member States where a Programme Desk and a Contact Point have been established, the Programme should support their continuation. Programme Desks and Contact Points should receive the funding from the strands corresponding to their areas of competence.
33 In order to promote the Programme at national level, provide relevant information on the various types of financial support available under Union policy, and assist operators to apply for support under the Programme, the Programme shall support the establishment of Desks in participating countries. The Desks shall implement their activities aiming to enhance outreach, visibility and dissemination of the Programme results in accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) 202X/XXXX which establishes the rules for the expenditure tracking and the performance framework for the budget, including the rules applicable to all Union programmes regarding information, communication and visibility obligations, including in particular obligations for beneficiaries and implementing partners33 In order to promote the Programme at national level, provide relevant information on the various types of financial support available under Union policy, and assist operators to apply for support under the Programme, the Programme shall support the establishment of Desks in participating countries. The Desks shall implement their activities aiming to enhance outreach, visibility and dissemination of the Programme results in accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) 202X/XXXX which establishes the rules for the expenditure tracking and the performance framework for the budget, including the rules applicable to all Union programmes regarding information, communication and visibility obligations, including in particular obligations for beneficiaries and implementing partners

Or. en

Amendment 53

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 36 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(36a) An open, transparent and regular dialogue with the beneficiaries of the Programme, including children and young people, and other relevant stakeholders should be established by means of an AgoraEU Dialogue Platform. The AgoraEU Dialogue Platform should facilitate the discussion and dialogue with the Commission. It should contribute to the exchange of experiences and best practices and to the discussion of policy developments and actions needed within the areas and strands covered by the Programme, in particular those which are related to the cross-cutting and horizontal areas and activities. The AgoraEU Dialogue Platform should not have any responsibility regarding the management of the Programme, but should be consulted as part of the qualitative evaluation of the Programme.

Or. en

Amendment 54

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 38

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(38) Participation of third countries in the ‘Audiovisual’ specific objective requires a certain level of reciprocity and regulatory alignment. For this reason, the situation of their audiovisual markets, the proximity of their legal frameworks with the Union audiovisual media acquis, in particular Directive 2010/13/EU, and the access to their support schemes should be taken into consideration when concluding Association Agreements. This is of particular importance concerning other European countries, whose audiovisual works benefit from the provisions of Directive 2010/13/EU that promote European works, notably the quotas system. In the specific case of acceding countries, candidate countries and potential candidates, the requirement to align their national legislations with Directive 2010/13/EU was already included in Regulation (EU) 2021/818 establishing the Creative Europe Programme. This condition has been an efficient incentive to accelerate their work on the overall alignment with the EU acquis in view of accession.(38) Participation of third countries in the ‘Audiovisual’ specific objective requires a certain level of reciprocity and regulatory alignment. For this reason, the situation of their audiovisual markets, the alignment of their legal frameworks with the Union audiovisual media acquis, in particular Directive 2010/13/EU, and the access to their support schemes should be taken into consideration when concluding Association Agreements. This is of particular importance concerning other European countries, whose audiovisual works benefit from the provisions of Directive 2010/13/EU that promote European works, notably the quotas system. In the specific case of acceding countries, candidate countries and potential candidates, the requirement to align their national legislations with Directive 2010/13/EU was already included in Regulation (EU) 2021/818 establishing the Creative Europe Programme. This condition has been an efficient incentive to accelerate their work on the overall alignment with the EU acquis in view of accession.

Or. en

Amendment 55

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 38 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(38a) The Culture - Creative Europe, Culture - Music and Culture - MEDIA strands recognise the economic value of the European cultural and creative sectors and are intended to strengthen their financial capacity, competitiveness and investment potential. Support granted under those strands should therefore be directed towards actions and activities that generate European added value. Union funding under budget lines dedicated to strengthening European cultural and creative undertakings should not support actions or activities lacking European added value, in particular where the profits generated by such activities would directly benefit the ultimate shareholders of undertakings that are not nationals of a Member State or of a country participating in the relevant strand. Allowing such benefits to accrue outside the participating countries would risk weakening the competitive position of European undertakings and undermining the capacity of the Union to achieve the objectives pursued by those strands.

Or. en

Amendment 56

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 40 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(40a) In order to ensure continuity in providing support in the relevant policy area and to allow implementation to start from the beginning of the multiannual financial framework 2028-2034, this Regulation should enter into force as a matter of urgency and should apply, with retroactive effect, from 1 January 2028.

Or. en

Amendment 57

Proposal for a regulation

Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 1 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(1a) “cultural and creative sectors” means all sectors:
(a) whose activities, many of which have the potential to foster innovation and employment, in particular through the exploitation of intellectual property:
(i) are based on cultural values and in artistic and other individual or collective creative expressions; and
(ii) include the development, creation, production, circulation dissemination and preservation of goods and services which embody cultural, artistic or other creative expressions, as well as related functions, including education and management;
(b) regardless of:
(i) whether such activities are of a market or non-market nature;
(ii) the type of entity carrying out those activities.
Those sectors include, inter alia, architecture, archives, libraries and museums, crafts, film and audiovisual sectors, video games, tangible and intangible cultural heritage, design (including fashion design), festivals, music, literature, performing arts (including theatre, dance and circus arts), books and publishing, radio, and visual arts.

Or. en

Amendment 58

Proposal for a regulation

Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 1 b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(1b) “news media outlet” means a natural or legal person that, on a professional basis, exercises editorial responsibility for the production, selection, and organisation of content, and whose primary activity consists of providing the public with news and information of general interest through any means of communication, including audiovisual services, print media or online services;

Or. en

Amendment 59

Proposal for a regulation

Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 1 c (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(1c) ‘independent European audiovisual production company’ means a company which is not, directly or indirectly, majority controlled by an audiovisual media service provider, either in shareholding or commercial terms; majority control is considered to occur when more than 25% of the share capital of a production company is held by a single audiovisual media service provider or 50% when several audiovisual media service providers have shares or other means of control in the company; an audiovisual production company is a company whose main objective and activity is audiovisual production;

Or. en

Amendment 60

Proposal for a regulation

Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 1 d (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(1d) ‘blending operation’ means actions supported by the Union budget, including within blending facilities as defined in Article 2(6) of Regulation (EU) 2024/2509, that combine non-repayable forms of support and financial instruments from the Union budget with repayable forms of support from development or other public finance institutions, or from commercial finance institutions and investors;

Or. en

Amendment 61

Proposal for a regulation

Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 1 e (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(1e) ‘legal entity’ means a natural person or a legal person which is created and recognised as such under national law, Union law or international law, which has legal personality, and which may exercise rights and be subject to obligations when acting in its own name.

Or. en

Amendment 62

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(1) The general objectives of the Programme are to promote cultural and linguistic diversity and heritage, to increase the competitiveness of the cultural and creative sectors, in particular the media and audiovisual industries, to safeguard artistic and media freedom, and to protect and promote equality, active citizenship, rights and values as enshrined in the Treaties and in the Charter, thereby enhancing democratic participation and societal resilience.(1) The general objectives of the Programme are to promote cultural and linguistic diversity and heritage, to strengthen the cultural and creative sectors, in particular the film, audiovisual, music and book sectors, to safeguard artistic freedom and independence, to reinforce the news sector, to safeguard media freedom and media pluralism, and to protect and promote rights and values as enshrined in the Treaties, the Charter and the applicable international human rights conventions, including equality, gender equality, protection of persons belonging to minorities, active citizenship, democratic participation, social inclusion and diversity and societal resilience. Those objectives shall be pursued in particular by supporting civil society organisations as well as cultural organisations and news media outlets and other stakeholders active at local, regional, national and transnational level, in order to sustain and further develop open, rights-based, democratic, equal and inclusive societies based on the rule of law, cultural diversity and media pluralism.

Or. en

Amendment 63

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point a – introductory part

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) the ‘Creative Europe - Culture’ Strand shall:(a) the ‘Culture - Creative Europe’ Strand shall:

Or. en

Amendment 64

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point a – point i

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
i. contribute to cross-border cultural creation, cooperation, participation and accessibility, and cross-border circulation of a diversity of cultural works, while strengthening the social, economic and international dimensions of the cultural and creative sectors (‘culture’);i. contribute to cultural creation, cooperation, participation and accessibility, and cross-border circulation of a diversity of cultural works, while strengthening the social, economic and international dimensions of the cultural and creative sectors (‘Cultural Sectors’);

Or. en

Amendment 65

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point a – point i a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
ia. contribute to the cultural and linguistic diversity and resilience of the European book ecosystem, notably by fostering literary creation, translation and circulation and promotion of European works across all formats (‘Book and Publishing Sector’);

Or. en

Amendment 66

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point a a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(aa) the ‘Culture - Music’ strand shall support the cultural diversity, sustainability and balanced growth of the music sector, in particular by strengthening the creation, promotion, circulation and distribution of European musical works and addressing structural imbalances in the European music ecosystem across its entire value chain;

Or. en

Amendment 67

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point b – introductory part

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) the ‘MEDIA+’ strand shall:(b) the ‘Culture - MEDIA’ strand shall:

Or. en

Amendment 68

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point b – point i

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
i. contribute to the cultural diversity and competitiveness of the audiovisual and video games industries, notably by enhancing creation and cross-border distribution of European content and its access by citizens (‘audiovisual’);i. contribute to the cultural and linguistic diversity and competitiveness of the film and audiovisual industries and video game industry, notably by enhancing creation, independent audiovisual production and the circulation and promotion of European films and audiovisual works and video games and access thereto (‘Audiovisual’);

Or. en

Amendment 69

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point b – point ii

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
ii. contribute to a free, viable and diverse Union information ecosystem, notably by supporting free and independent journalism and news media, enhancing citizens’ access to trustworthy information and tackling disinformation (‘news’);deleted

Or. en

Amendment 70

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point b a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(ba) the ‘Information and Journalism’ strand shall contribute to safeguarding and fostering a free, pluralistic, viable, resilient and diverse information ecosystem in the Union, in particular by supporting independent journalism, news media outlets and civil society organisations, enhancing access to trustworthy information, tackling disinformation and promoting digital and media literacy (‘Democratic News Ecosystem’);

Or. en

Amendment 71

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point c – introductory part

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(c) the Democracy, Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values (‘CERV+’) strand shall:(c) the Citizens, Equality, Gender Equality, Rights and Values (‘CERV+’) strand shall:

Or. en

Amendment 72

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point c – point i

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
i. contribute to protecting and promoting fundamental rights, equality and non-discrimination and Union citizen’s rights enshrined in the Treaties including free movement of citizens, and empowering civil society (‘rights, equality, citizens and civil society’);i. contribute to protecting, promoting and upholding fundamental rights, including equality, gender equality and non- discrimination and Union citizen’s rights enshrined in the Treaties, the Charter and the applicable international human rights conventions, including the right to free movement, and empowering civil society as well as advancing gender mainstreaming, (‘Rights, Equality, Gender Equality and Civil Society’);

Or. en

Amendment 73

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point c – point ii

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
ii. contribute to fighting against gender-based violence, violence against children and other groups at risk of such violence (‘Daphne’);ii. contribute to protecting, promoting and implementing the rule of law as one of the Union values enshrined in Article 2 TEU, the safeguarding of which is intrinsically linked to the protection of other fundamental values, and which includes the principles of legality, implying transparent, accountable, democratic and pluralistic law-making processes, legal certainty, prohibition of arbitrariness of executive powers, effective judicial protection, including access to justice, by independent and impartial courts, and separation of powers (‘Rule of Law and Democracy’);

Or. en

Amendment 74

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point c – point iii

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
iii. contribute to enhancing democratic participation and upholding the rule of law (‘democratic participation and rule of law’).iii. contribute to enhancing inclusive democratic participation and engagement in the democratic life of the Union and exchanges between citizens (‘Inclusive Democratic Participation and Engagement’);

Or. en

Amendment 75

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point c a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(ca) the Daphne strand shall contribute to preventing and fighting against all forms of gender-based violence, violence against children and other groups at risk of such violence, including online violence (‘Zero Tolerance to Gender-based Violence’);

Or. en

Amendment 76

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point c b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(cb) the Union Values strand shall contribute to protecting and promoting a vibrant, resilient, inclusive and democratic civic space that safeguards and promotes the Union values enshrined in Article 2 TEU, in particular by supporting the establishment of a holistic and independent European Union Rapid Response Facility to provide immediate support to civic space actors under threat, especially where no existing mechanism is available, paying special attention to human rights defenders and civil society organisations (‘Civic Space Resilience’).

Or. en

Amendment 77

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 3

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(3) To maximise impact and enhance synergies across the strands referred to in paragraph 2, the Programme shall support cross-cutting and horizontal activities contributing to the general objective referred to in paragraph 1, notably by developing synergies between the cultural, media and civic spheres and promoting cross-sectoral collaboration and innovation.(3) To maximise impact and enhance synergies across the strands referred to in paragraph 2, the Programme shall support cross-cutting and horizontal activities contributing to the general objective referred to in paragraph 1, notably by facilitating synergies between the cultural, news and civic spheres, in particular through the promotion of innovation and digital investments, including fostering digital tools, upskilling, reskilling and training initiatives, maintenance of the core infrastructure, reduction of administrative burdens and facilitation of cross-sectoral collaboration. The implementation of the Programme shall not disadvantage or limit the eligibility or assessment of project proposals that focus exclusively on a single objective of the Programme.

Or. en

Amendment 78

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 3 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(3a) Cross-cutting and horizontal activities shall not undermine directly or indirectly the Union values enshrined in Article 2 TEU and in the Charter.

Or. en

Amendment 79

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 3 b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(3b) The actions through which the priorities set out in this Article are to be pursued are set out in Annex I.

Or. en

Amendment 80

Proposal for a regulation

Chapter II – title

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Creative Europe - Culture strandCulture - Creative Europe strand

Or. en

Amendment 81

Proposal for a regulation

Article 4 – title

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
CultureCultural Sectors

Or. en

Amendment 82

Proposal for a regulation

Article 4 – paragraph 1 – introductory part

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Within the Creative Europe - Culture strand, the ‘Culture’ specific objective, covering the cultural and creative sectors, shall focus on:Within the Culture - Creative Europe strand, the ‘Cultural Sectors’ specific objective, covering the cultural and creative sectors, shall focus on:

Or. en

Amendment 83

Proposal for a regulation

Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) fostering cross-border creation, cooperation and exchanges across various formats, including through the mobility of artists and cultural and creative professionals, artistic residencies, as well as partnerships between organisations of all sizes;(a) fostering creation, cooperation, circulation and exchanges across various formats, including through the mobility of artists and cultural and creative professionals, artistic residencies, as well as partnerships between organisations of all sizes;

Or. en

Amendment 84

Proposal for a regulation

Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) improving access to and participation in culture and cultural heritage for all, notably for young people, and strengthening social resilience and social cohesion, in particular intergenerational fairness, equality and diversity, through cultural engagement;(b) improving access to and participation in culture and cultural heritage for all, notably for young people and vulnerable groups, and strengthening social resilience and social cohesion, in particular intergenerational fairness, equality and diversity, through cultural engagement and intercultural dialogue;

Or. en

Amendment 85

Proposal for a regulation

Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point c

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(c) supporting the circulation, distribution, promotion and visibility of diverse European cultural content through various channels across the Union and internationally, including through European platforms for emerging artists, support to entities aiming at training and promoting young artists, prizes that promote artistic talent and excellence, touring initiatives, festivals, and translation;(c) supporting the circulation, distribution, promotion and visibility of diverse European cultural works through various channels across the Union and internationally, including through European platforms for emerging artists, support to entities aiming at training and promoting young artists, prizes that promote artistic talent and excellence, individual and group mobility programmes, touring initiatives, festivals, and translation;

Or. en

Amendment 86

Proposal for a regulation

Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point c a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(ca) supporting the needs of artists and cultural professionals at risk of forced displacement or in forced displacement, by ensuring their protection, facilitating safe and sustainable relocation, and supporting their empowerment and integration into European cultural ecosystems through dedicated support schemes;

Or. en

Amendment 87

Proposal for a regulation

Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point d

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(d) strengthening the capacity and skills in the cultural and creative sectors to drive innovation and competitiveness and to navigate the green and digital transitions, including through support for networks of cultural and creative organisations, training and peer-learning activities;(d) strengthening the capacity and skills in the cultural and creative sectors to drive innovation and competitiveness, to foster gender equality and inclusiveness and to navigate the green and digital transitions, including through support for networks of cultural and creative organisations, training, peer-learning activities, knowledge exchange, skills development and sector representation at Union level;

Or. en

Amendment 88

Proposal for a regulation

Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point e

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(e) promoting cultural policy development through cooperation and exchange of good practices at Union level, and improving evidence base through enhanced data collection, analysis, and pilot actions;(e) promoting cultural policy development through cooperation and exchange of good practices at Union level, and improving evidence base through enhanced data collection, analysis, and pilot actions, including by supporting both sector-specific and cross-sector networks of cultural stakeholders.

Or. en

Amendment 89

Proposal for a regulation

Article 4 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
The implementation of the ‘Culture’ specific objective shall be carried out with full respect of artistic freedom and diversity of cultural expressions, and contribute to the improvement of working conditions for artists and cultural and creative professionals.deleted

Or. en

Amendment 90

Proposal for a regulation

Article 4 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Article 4a
Book and Publishing Sector
Within the Culture - Creative Europe strand, the ‘Book and Publishing Sector’ specific objective, shall focus on the following priorities:
(a) supporting the creation, circulation and visibility of European literary works, reflecting the Union’s linguistic and cultural diversity, across all formats and markets, including internationally;
(b) promoting diversity, creativity and innovation in the sector, including through transnational cooperation projects, professional training, and exchanges for authors, translators and other professionals;
(c) strengthening the sustainability, competitiveness and independence of the sector, in particular small and medium-sized enterprises, including by safeguarding the proper functioning of the value chain for authors, publishers, printers, distributors, translators, booksellers and libraries and providing access to finance;
(d) promoting the translation of European fiction literary works and encouraging translation into regional, minority and lesser-used languages, as well as, where possible, their adaptation into accessible formats for persons with disabilities;
(e) promoting mobility and professional exchanges, including through mobility schemes for writers or translators or exchanges between literary institutions;
(f) supporting the development of diverse audiences and encouraging reading, in particular among young people, including through initiatives promoting children’s books, early reading, school libraries and literary events, and prizes, including the European Union Prize for Literature;
(g) strengthening the role of libraries and bookstores as core cultural and community infrastructure including by training, capacity building and peer learning initiatives as well as initiatives fostering community engagement, reading habits, and local book ecosystem, including through establishing a label for independent bookshops.

Or. en

Amendment 91

Proposal for a regulation

Article 4 b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Article 4b
The implementation of the ‘Cultural Sectors’ and 'Book and Publishing Sector' specific objectives shall be carried out with full respect for artistic freedom, authors’ rights and diversity of cultural expressions, and contribute to the improvement of working conditions for artists and cultural and creative professionals. For that purpose, support shall be provided exclusively to activities that guarantee decent and safe working conditions, together with fair and non-discriminatory remuneration. Support within the Culture - Creative Europe strand shall further be restricted to works and performances based on a substantial and identifiable creative human contribution. Where artificial intelligence tools are employed in an auxiliary capacity, they shall serve to enhance human creativity, be deployed with full transparency, with the consent of the contributing artists and cultural and creative professionals who shall be remunerated appropriately.. Applicants seeking support under the Culture- Creative Europe strand shall comply with applicable Union copyright law and national measures transposing Directive (EU) 2019/790 of the European Parliament and of the Council1a, in particular Article 4 thereof, concerning the obligation to respect any express reservations of rights (opt-out) by rightholders.
1a Directive (EU) 2019/790 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 April 2019 on copyright and related rights in the Digital Single Market and amending Directives 96/9/EC and 2001/29/EC (OJ L 130, 17.5.2019, p. 92, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2019/790/oj).

Or. en

Amendment 92

Proposal for a regulation

Chapter II a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Chapter II a
Culture - Music strand
Article 4b
Music
1. The Culture - Music strand aims to provide dedicated support for the music sector in the Union by addressing structural imbalances throughout the entire value chain.
2.The Culture - Music strand shall focus on:
(a) supporting the creation, production, circulation, distribution and visibility of European musical works, reflecting the Union’s linguistic and cultural diversity, across all formats and markets, including internationally;
(b) strengthening the sustainability, competitiveness and independence of the music sector, in particular small and medium-sized enterprises and independent artists, by addressing market concentration and the growing dominance of digital and streaming platforms, and by promoting fairer value distribution across the music value chain including by addressing the challenges posed by artificial intelligence and access to finance;
(c) improving access to funding, in particular for first-time applicants, independent artists and small and medium-sized enterprises including through simplified procedures, two-stage application process, and possibilities for full financing;
(d) supporting the entire music value chain including through European music networks and collaborative structures, promotion of accessible creative spaces and diverse music venues, and provision of technical and administrative support for such entities;
(e) promoting the circulation and mobility of artists and repertoires and the development of diverse audiences, including in rural, remote and outermost regions, including by enhancing visibility, cooperation and access to markets, supporting entities aiming at training and promoting young artists, individual and group mobility programmes, touring initiatives and festivals;
(f) ensuring the effective integration of cross-cutting priorities, notably gender equality, inclusion and accessibility, including through dedicated and additional financial support for accessibility costs, while also promoting sustainable practices, mental well-being and safe work environments across the sector;
(h) strengthening policy development and evidence-based decision-making through enhanced data collection and analysis, by supporting a European Music Observatory and measures contributing to greater transparency of the music sector.
3.The implementation of the Culture - Music strand shall be carried out in full respect of artistic freedom and diversity of cultural expressions, and shall contribute to improving working conditions, fair remuneration and social protection for artists and cultural and creative professionals, including through the application of social conditionality. It shall also take into account the specific situation of artists at risk and ensure a more balanced and equitable music ecosystem across Member States.
4.Such support shall be restricted to works and performances based on a substantial and identifiable creative human contribution. Where artificial intelligence tools are employed in an auxiliary capacity, they shall serve to enhance human creativity and be subject to informed consent, full transparency, and appropriate remuneration. Furthermore, creative work should not rely on AI-generated content as its primary input, which would then be reworked by artists.
Final beneficiaries shall comply with Directive (EU) 2019/790, in particular Article 4 thereof, concerning the obligation to respect any express reservations of rights (opt-out) by rightholders.

Or. en

Amendment 93

Proposal for a regulation

Chapter III – title

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
MEDIA+ strandCulture - MEDIA strand

Or. en

Amendment 94

Proposal for a regulation

Article 5 – paragraph 1 – introductory part

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Within the MEDIA+ strand, the ‘Audiovisual’ specific objective shall focus on:Within the Culture - MEDIA strand, the ‘Audiovisual’ specific objective shall focus on:

Or. en

Amendment 95

Proposal for a regulation

Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) supporting the creation of European audiovisual works across multiple formats and genres, with the potential to reach diverse audiences across borders;(a) supporting the development, creation, production and co-production of European film and audiovisual works exclusively by independent European audiovisual production companies as well as the theatrical distribution of European cinematographic works in cinemas across a variety of formats and genres, with the potential to reach diverse audiences, including children and young people, across borders;

Or. en

Amendment 96

Proposal for a regulation

Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point a a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(aa) providing support for initiatives that protect Europe’s audiovisual heritage works, including activities such as digitisation, restoration, cataloguing, and long-term preservation, in order to facilitate their use, improve access, and promote their circulation across European and international audiovisual platforms and markets;

Or. en

Amendment 97

Proposal for a regulation

Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) fostering the cross-border circulation, distribution, prominence and visibility of European audiovisual works on all mediums across the Union and internationally, including through coordinated distribution strategies, marketing and promotion tools;(b) strengthening the circulation, promotion, theatrical distribution in cinemas and online distribution of European film and audiovisual works including heritage works and their online availability, within the Union and outside the Union in the new digital environment, including through innovative business models and coordinated strategies, marketing and promotion tools and supporting multilingual accessibility by providing subtitles and dubbing in various languages of the Union, with the aim of promoting linguistic diversity and making works accessible to a broad audience;

Or. en

Amendment 98

Proposal for a regulation

Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point c

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(c) building audiences for European audiovisual works, including through a network of European cinemas, festivals and outreach campaigns, and addressing in particular young Europeans and underserved communities;(c) supporting the engagement and development of audiences for European films and audiovisual works, notably non-national works, including through a network of European cinemas, support to international sales agents and distributors, international professional networks, and festivals and outreach campaigns, film literacy and education activities and addressing in particular young Europeans and underserved communities;

Or. en

Amendment 99

Proposal for a regulation

Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point d

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(d) supporting the development and prototyping of European video games and immersive content, including through market testing, promotion and discoverability audience-driven strategies, and distribution across all platforms;(d) supporting the development and prototyping of European video games and immersive works, including through market testing, promotion and discoverability audience-driven strategies, and distribution across all platforms;

Or. en

Amendment 100

Proposal for a regulation

Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point e

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(e) enhancing talent development, supporting access to finance, business-to-business exchanges and networking, adoption of innovative tools and business models and cross-media intellectual property exploitation strategies, particularly in response to creative, market and technological shifts;(e) enhancing and nurturing the emergence of European talents and authors, promoting gender equality, as well as diversity and inclusion, facilitating access to finance, in particular for small and medium-sized enterprises in the audiovisual sector, and supporting business-to-business exchanges and networking, cross-border cooperation, participation in industry events, and the development and adoption of innovative tools and business models and cross-media intellectual property exploitation strategies, particularly in response to creative, market and technological shifts;

Or. en

Amendment 101

Proposal for a regulation

Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point e a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(ea) supporting authors and screen directors by providing targeted measures such as residencies, mobility schemes, peer-learning and exchange formats, mentoring, networking platforms and customised capacity-building actions, with a view to enabling them to develop their projects, share experiences, benefit from mutual learning, and strengthen their skills, in particular with regard to emerging technologies and the responsible use thereof;

Or. en

Amendment 102

Proposal for a regulation

Article 5 – paragraph 2 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
For that purpose, support shall be provided exclusively to activities that guarantee decent and safe working conditions, together with fair and non-discriminatory remuneration. Such support shall further be restricted to works and performances based on a substantial and identifiable creative human contribution. Where artificial intelligence tools are employed in an auxiliary capacity, they shall serve to enhance human creativity and be subject to informed consent, full transparency, and appropriate remuneration. Furthermore, creative works shall not rely on AI-generated content as its primary input, which would then be reworked by artists, particularly when it comes to subtitling and dubbing.

Or. en

Amendment 103

Proposal for a regulation

Article 5 – paragraph 2 b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Final beneficiaries shall comply with Directive (EU) 2019/790, in particular Article 4 thereof, concerning the obligation to respect any express reservation of rights (opt-out) by rightholders.

Or. en

Amendment 104

Proposal for a regulation

Article 5 – paragraph 2 c (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
The implementation of the Culture – MEDIA strand shall also contribute to increasing the accessibility for and take into consideration the needs of deaf, hard-of-hearing, blind and visually impaired audiences.

Or. en

Amendment 105

Proposal for a regulation

Article 6

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Article 6deleted
News
Within the MEDIA+ strand, the ‘News’ specific objective shall focus on:
(a) protecting news media outlets and journalists, especially where they face threats, monitoring, assessing and addressing risks to media freedom and pluralism in the internal market and promoting journalistic and editorial standards;
(b) enhancing the production, distribution and consumption of professional journalistic content, including coverage of Union affairs, investigative journalism, local news, and public interest media;
(c) supporting the digital transformation of news organisations, innovative practices, new production, distribution and business models, facilitating access to finance and encouraging cross-border activities and the reskilling and upskilling of news media professionals;
(d) enhancing cooperation and promoting measures aimed at monitoring and safeguarding the online information space, including detecting and combating disinformation and foreign information manipulation and interference, thereby contributing to greater resilience across the Union;
(e) promoting digital and media literacy activities in order to enable citizens, including young people, to use and develop a critical understanding of the information ecosystem;
(f) reinforcing policy dialogue, data collection and analysis and development of common standards, including by supporting the work of the European Board for Media Services.
The implementation of the ‘News’ specific objective shall be carried out with full respect for media editorial independence and professional standards.

Or. en

Amendment 106

Proposal for a regulation

Chapter III a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Chapter IIIa
Information and Journalism strand
Article 6
Democratic News Ecosystem
Within the ‘Information and Journalism’ strand, the ‘Democratic News Ecosystem’ specific objective shall focus on:
(a) protecting and supporting news media outlets, journalists, and civil society organisations, especially where they face threats, economic precarity, surveillance, harassment or violence, including online, ensuring an enabling environment for them to operate independently, freely, safely, and effectively;
(b) promoting mechanisms to safeguard journalistic and editorial standards and editorial independence; supporting organisations representing the interests of journalists, including self-regulatory bodies;
(c) supporting the production, distribution and accessibility of journalistic content produced in line with professional European and international standards , including coverage of European, regional and local independent news, in particular in areas with limited access to independent news coverage, investigative journalism, the provision of information on matters of public interest, and cross-border activities aimed at enhancing the prominence, discoverability and accessibility of such content, cooperation of news media outlets, provided that the supported content is produced by news media outlets that demonstrate editorial independence from political parties, undue commercial influence and third-country actors, and demonstrating editorial oversight ensuring transparency, accuracy, fairness and accountability;
(d) supporting the digital transformation of news media outlets and safeguarding their sustainability, competitiveness and innovation in the digital media market, including through innovative practices, technological tools and digital infrastructure, new methods for the distribution of news, development of innovative business models, upskilling, reskilling and training opportunities for news media professionals;
(e) ensuring the sustainability of local news media, including through facilitating access to finance, supporting media operating in minority languages and media of minority communities and reinforcing the media infrastructure at local level;
(f) enhancing cooperation and promoting measures aimed at monitoring and safeguarding a safe, robust, viable, independent, diverse and democratic online information ecosystem, including detecting, analysing and combating disinformation, such as gendered disinformation and anti-gender narratives, and information manipulation and interference, thereby contributing to ensure greater democratic resilience across the Union;
(g) contributing to ensuring the proper functioning and the protection and promotion of a safe, viable, independent and diverse information ecosystem, including through monitoring, assessing and addressing risks to media freedom and pluralism in the internal market, reinforcing policy and dialogue, data collection and analysis and development of common standards and tools, including through supporting the work of the European Board for Media Services;
(h) promoting digital and media literacy, critical thinking, in particular among young people, elderly people, and vulnerable groups, as a tool to better understand the information ecosystem and better detect information manipulation, and to combat gender stereotypes and other harmful stereotypes and gender-based disinformation and violence online.
The implementation of the ‘Information and Journalism’ strand shall be carried out with full respect for editorial independence and professional standards and shall contribute to strengthening the right of recipients of media services to have access to a plurality of editorially independent media content as referred in Article 3 of the Regulation (EU) 2024/1083 of the European Parliament and of the Council1a. To that end, support shall be granted exclusively to activities that ensure fair, safe and independent working conditions, together with adequate, transparent and non-discriminatory remuneration, in accordance with applicable Union law and practice.
Where artificial intelligence tools are used in the production and dissemination of journalistic content, they shall remain subordinate to human editorial oversight and responsibility, and shall not undermine journalistic standards, ethics or integrity.
The use of those tools shall be subject to full transparency, including the disclosure of AI-generated or AI-altered content, and shall not replace original journalistic work as the primary source of information and shall comply with Directive (EU) 2019/790, in particular Article 4 thereof, concerning the obligation to respect any express reservation of rights (opt-out) by rightholders to ensure that journalistic content is not used for text and data mining or AI training where such rights have been expressly reserved by the rightholders concerned, and Article 15 of that Directive to ensure that the neighbouring rights of press publishers are preserved.
1a Regulation (EU) 2024/1083 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 April 2024 establishing a common framework for media services in the internal market and amending Directive 2010/13/EU (European Media Freedom Act) (J L, 2024/1083, 17.4.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1083/oj).

Or. en

Amendment 107

Proposal for a regulation

Article 7 – title

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Rights, equality, citizens and civil societyRights, equality, gender equality and civil society

Or. en

Amendment 108

Proposal for a regulation

Article 7 – paragraph 1 – introductory part

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Within the CERV+ strand, the ‘Rights, Equality, Citizens and Civil Society’ specific objective shall focus on:Within the CERV+ strand, the ‘Rights, Equality, Gender Equality and Civil Society’ specific objective shall focus on:

Or. en

Amendment 109

Proposal for a regulation

Article 7 – paragraph 1 – point a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) promoting equality, and preventing and fighting against discrimination on the grounds of sex, racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation, and all forms of racism and intolerance;(a) promoting equality, and preventing and fighting inequalities and discrimination, including structural and intersectional inequalities and discrimination, on the grounds provided for in Article 21 of the Charter, including racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation, as well as gender and gender identity, and combating all forms of racism, xenophobia and intolerance, including homophobia, lesbophobia, biphobia, transphobia, interphobia, both online and offline;

Or. en

Amendment 110

Proposal for a regulation

Article 7 – paragraph 1 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) promoting gender equality, gender mainstreaming and women’s empowerment, and protecting and promoting women’s full enjoyment of rights;(b) promoting gender equality, gender mainstreaming and women’s empowerment, and protecting and promoting women’s full enjoyment of rights, including sexual and reproductive health and rights;

Or. en

Amendment 111

Proposal for a regulation

Article 7 – paragraph 1 – point c

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(c) promoting accessibility and protecting and promoting the rights of persons with disabilities, supporting the EU implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities;(c) promoting accessibility and protecting and promoting the rights of persons with disabilities, including by supporting the implementation by the Union of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities;

Or. en

Amendment 112

Proposal for a regulation

Article 7 – paragraph 1 – point d

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(d) protecting and promoting the rights of the child;(d) protecting and promoting the rights of the child, including by supporting the implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and by combating cyberbullying;

Or. en

Amendment 113

Proposal for a regulation

Article 7 – paragraph 1 – point e

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(e) protecting and promoting freedom of expression, the right to privacy, the protection of personal data as well as rights in the digital space;(e) protecting and promoting freedom of expression, the right to privacy, the right to the protection of personal data as well as other rights in the digital space;

Or. en

Amendment 114

Proposal for a regulation

Article 7 – paragraph 1 – point f

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(f) nurturing a vibrant civic space by building the capacity of, and providing financial support to, civil society organisations, human rights defenders, and other relevant actors, which are active at all levels in protecting, promoting and raising citizen’s awareness of rights enshrined in the Treaty, promoting EU democratic resilience, non-discrimination and equality and more broadly Union values, such as the respect for fundamental rights, the rule of law, democracy and in protecting and promoting respect of the Charter.(f) nurturing a vibrant civic space by building the capacity and resilience of, and providing accessible, predictable and multiannual financial support, which shall include the award of operating grants to, civil society organisations, human rights defenders, and other civic space actors, which are active at all levels in protecting, promoting and raising awareness of rights and values enshrined in the Treaty, the Charter and applicable international human rights conventions, including non-discrimination and equality and more broadly Union values, such as the respect for fundamental rights, the rule of law, democracy, as well as promoting the democratic resilience of the Union.

Or. en

Amendment 115

Proposal for a regulation

Article 8 – title

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
DaphneRule of Law and Democracy

Or. en

Amendment 116

Proposal for a regulation

Article 8 – paragraph 1 – introductory part

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Within the CERV+ strand, the ‘Daphne’ specific objective shall focus on:Within the CERV+ strand, the ‘Rule of Law and Democracy’ specific objective shall focus on:

Or. en

Amendment 117

Proposal for a regulation

Article 8 – paragraph 1 – point a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) preventing, responding to and fighting at all levels all forms of gender-based violence against women and girls, domestic violence, and violence against children, young and older people, LGBTIQ people, persons with disabilities and other groups at risk;(a) protecting and promoting democracy and the rule of law, including by safeguarding the independence of the judiciary, ensuring effective judicial protection and access to justice before independent and impartial courts, access to information and transparency and prevention of arbitrariness by public authorities, including enforcement and independent oversight bodies;

Or. en

Amendment 118

Proposal for a regulation

Article 8 – paragraph 1 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) protecting and supporting all direct and indirect victims and survivors of violence as referred in point (a);(b) protecting and strengthening whistleblower defence and initiatives that enhance transparency, accountability, integrity and the absence of corruption, including by supporting strategic litigation;

Or. en

Amendment 119

Proposal for a regulation

Article 8 – paragraph 1 – point c

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(c) supporting the achievement of the objectives of the Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence in the Union.(c) undertaking monitoring of the compliance with the rule of law and all other fundamental values enshrined in Article 2 TEU, including implementation of relevant rulings of the Court of Justice of the European Union and the European Court of Human Rights, as well as sound financial management of the Union budget, and initiatives promoting such compliance;

Or. en

Amendment 120

Proposal for a regulation

Article 8 – paragraph 1 – point c a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(ca) supporting, empowering and building the capacity and resilience of civic space actors active in the promotion and protection of rule of law and democracy.

Or. en

Amendment 121

Proposal for a regulation

Article 9 – title

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Democratic participation and rule of lawInclusive democratic civic participation and engagement

Or. en

Amendment 122

Proposal for a regulation

Article 9 – paragraph 1 – introductory part

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Within the CERV+ strand, the ‘Democratic participation and rule of law’ specific objective of the Programme shall focus on:Within the CERV+ strand, the ‘Inclusive Democratic Participation and Engagement’ specific objective of the Programme shall focus on:

Or. en

Amendment 123

Proposal for a regulation

Article 9 – paragraph 1 – point a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) protecting and promoting Union citizenship rights as well as citizens’ participation and engagement in the democratic and civic life of the Union, and support open, resilient, rights-based, and equal societies based on the rule of law;(a) protecting and promoting Union citizenship rights as well as citizens’ and representative associations’ participation and engagement in the democratic and civic life of the Union by enabling them to make known and publicly exchange their views in all areas of Union action, and support open, inclusive, resilient, rights-based, and equal societies based on the rule of law;

Or. en

Amendment 124

Proposal for a regulation

Article 9 – paragraph 1 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) supporting free, fair, resilient, accessible and inclusive electoral and democratic processes;(b) supporting free, fair, resilient, accessible, diverse and inclusive electoral and democratic processes, including by supporting initiatives that aim to counter information manipulation, promote the integrity of information and mitigate algorithmic manipulation and which also aim to safeguard democratic principles through greater oversight of social media platforms and malicious actors who exploit those networks with a view to eroding democratic systems;

Or. en

Amendment 125

Proposal for a regulation

Chapter IV a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Chapter IVa
Daphne strand
Article 9a
Zero Tolerance to Gender-based Violence’
Within the Daphne strand, the ‘Zero Tolerance to Gender-based Violence’ specific objective shall focus on:
(a) preventing, responding to and fighting, at all levels, all forms of gender-based violence, including online violence, economic violence, domestic violence and emerging forms of digital violence, violence against women and girls, and violence affecting children, young and older people, LGBTIQ persons, persons with disabilities, ethnic and racial minorities and other groups at risk;
(b) protecting and supporting direct and indirect victims and survivors of violence as referred in point (a), in particular by facilitating access to justice and support services, including support services for women and other specialised expertise made available by grassroots organisations, as well as by providing direct assistance to victims and survivors of violence;
(c) supporting the implementation, within the Union, of the objectives of the Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence, and of Directive (EU) 2024/1385.

Or. en

Amendment 126

Proposal for a regulation

Chapter IV b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Chapter IVb
Union Values strand
Article 9b
Civic Space Resilience
Within the Union values strand, the ‘Civic Space Resilience’ specific objective shall focus on:
(a) protecting a democratic civic space that safeguards and promotes the Union values enshrined in Article 2 TEU, and strengthening its resilience against attacks and threats from actors that seek to undermine those values;
(b) establishing a holistic and independent European Union Rapid Response Facility to provide early warnings as well as immediate comprehensive protection, assistance and support to civic space actors under threat due to their work in the field of fundamental rights, in particular human rights defenders and civil society organisations, in complementarity with and in coordination with existing initiatives providing such support;
(c) raising awareness of the measures provided in this Article with a view to ensuring preparedness within civic space to immediately respond to and counter attacks and threats from actors that seek to undermine the Union values enshrined in Article 2 TEU, in order to enable civic space actors to carry out their work unhindered.
The European Union Rapid Response Facility referred to in the first subparagraph, point (b), shall provide for holistic protection, including physical, psychosocial, legal, digital and financial protection, and relocation where needed, and shall include a mechanism to provide alerts and to inform institutional responses.

Or. en

Amendment 127

Proposal for a regulation

Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) cross-sectoral cooperation and innovation across the cultural, media and civic fields, and protection of the integrity of the public discourse, thereby bolstering democratic resilience, societal preparedness and cultural and civic engagement;(a) safeguarding and promoting democratic resilience, societal preparedness and engagement, and protecting the integrity of the public discourse, notably against information manipulation, information interference and disinformation, including gender-based forms of disinformation;

Or. en

Amendment 128

Proposal for a regulation

Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point a a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(aa) actions promoting, across all its strands and sectors, social inclusion and participation, equality, including gender equality, diversity, accessibility, in particular for persons with disabilities, independence and pluralism, as well as safe and fair working conditions.

Or. en

Amendment 129

Proposal for a regulation

Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point a b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(ab) actions aiming to actively tackle gender stereotypes and anti-gender narratives, as well as advance gender mainstreaming, and promote the systematic use of gender mainstreaming tools such as gender budgeting and gender impact assessments;

Or. en

Amendment 130

Proposal for a regulation

Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point a c (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(ac) facilitating innovation and, where appropriate, cross-sectoral cooperation across the cultural, news and civic ecosystems, thereby promoting cultural and civic engagement;

Or. en

Amendment 131

Proposal for a regulation

Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) a responsible use of innovative tools and content technologies, notably Artificial Intelligence, as well as skills development and capacity-building through cross sectoral approaches;(b) ensuring a responsible, ethical, transparent and human-centric use of innovative tools and content technologies, notably artificial intelligence, in full respect of the intellectual property rights of rightholders and with priority given to ensuring that such technologies do not reproduce or amplify bias and exacerbate discrimination or exclusion, but that they also contribute to tackling those challenges, enhancing human creativity and the digitalisation of systems and processes, as well as to skills development and capacity-building through cross sectoral approaches;

Or. en

Amendment 132

Proposal for a regulation

Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point c

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(c) actions for the development, implementation, and monitoring of relevant Union legislation and policy in the culture, media and civic fields, including, where applicable, through cooperation among national authorities and stakeholders.(c) actions for the development, implementation, and monitoring of relevant Union legislation and policy, including their alignment with the Union values enshrined in the Treaties, the Charter and the applicable international human rights conventions, particularly in the culture, news and civic fields, including, where applicable, through cooperation among national authorities and stakeholders.

Or. en

Amendment 133

Proposal for a regulation

Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point c a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(ca) actions facilitating training and digital investment such as developing and adapting digital tools and training on digital skills, and, where relevant and feasible, facilitating synergies related to sustaining core infrastructure, as well as functions intended to further simplify the administrative burden;

Or. en

Amendment 134

Proposal for a regulation

Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point c b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(cb) actions protecting civic space resilience by providing emergency support and protection against attacks and threats from actors that seek to undermine Union values;

Or. en

Amendment 135

Proposal for a regulation

Article 10 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
The financing of cross-cutting and horizontal priorities and activities shall be determined by their nature and scope.The financing of cross-cutting and horizontal priorities and activities shall be determined by their nature, scope and the objectives of the Programme. Fostering synergies among the objectives of the Programme shall not prejudice, disadvantage or otherwise limit the eligibility or assessment of project proposals that focus exclusively on a single objective of the Programme. Cross-cutting and horizontal activities shall not undermine, directly or indirectly, the Union values enshrined in Article 2 TEU and in the Charter. The European Parliament shall be informed before the use of flexibility under the Programme. The European Parliament shall be duly informed of any mobilisation of funding under the Programme that could undermine the attainment and implementation of its objectives.

Or. en

Amendment 136

Proposal for a regulation

Article 10 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Article10a
Programme Desks and Contact Points
1. The Programme shall support the establishment and activities of Programme Desks and Contact Points in the Member States. In those Member States where Programme Desks and Contact Points have already been established, the Programme should support their continuation and ensure their operational continuity, avoiding any interruption of services to applicants and beneficiaries between multiannual financial frameworks.
2. The Programme shall support the establishment and activities of Programme Desks in participating countries. In those participating countries where Programme Desks have already been established, the Programme should support their continuation.
3. The Member States and third countries participating in the Programme, acting together with the Commission, shall establish the Programme Desks and Contact Points in accordance with their national law and practice.
4. The ‘Programme Desks’ and Contact Points actions shall:
(a) contribute to the achievement of the objectives of the Programme;
(b) promote the Programme, by enhancing outreach and visibility, including at regional and national level and in the national language or languages of the Member State or participating country where they are established;
(c) provide impartial guidance on the various types of financial support available under the Programme, including facilitating access to such funding for applicants from smaller markets or with limited capacity;
(d) provide practical information, technical support and assistance to potential applicants and beneficiaries wishing to apply for support under the Programme, including with regard to the formalities related to the various calls for proposals and the application procedures, project and consortium structuring, partner searches, training, dissemination of results, and administrative formalities;
(e) provide peer mentoring for newcomers to the Programme;
(f) facilitate cross-border cooperation, training and the exchange of best practices between professionals, institutions, civil society, platforms and networks within and across the policy areas covered by the Programme, including support for adaptation to market developments, digital transformation and economic sustainability;
(g) support the Commission in ensuring proper and user-friendly communication and dissemination of the results of the Programme to citizens and operators;
(h) reply to inquiries from partners;
(i) contribute to optimising synergies with national funding, private investment and other Union programmes.
5. Programme Desks and Contact Points shall be funded by the financial envelopes from the strands corresponding to their areas of competence in order to enable them to contribute to the achievement of the objectives of the Programme.
6. Programme Desks and Contact Points shall carry out their functions independently and shall be able to receive complaints.
7. The Commission shall not use funding allocated to the Programme Desks and Contact Points for the purposes of implementing information and communication actions related to the Programme.

Or. en

Amendment 137

Proposal for a regulation

Article 10 b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Article 10b
AgoraEU Dialogue Platform
The Commission shall set up an AgoraEU Dialogue Platform for the purpose of ensuring a regular, open, inclusive and transparent dialogue with the beneficiaries among the different strands of the Programme and with other relevant stakeholders. The AgoraEU Dialogue Platform shall serve as a forum to exchange experiences and good practices, discuss policy developments and implementation of the Programme, as well as related challenges and needs within the areas and strands covered by the Programme, in particular in relation to the cross-cutting and horizontal areas and activities, with the aim of contributing to the achievement of the objectives of the Programme set out in Article 3.
The findings of the AgoraEU Dialogue Platform shall be taken into consideration by the Commission in the preparation of the work programme referred to in Article 17. The summary of the findings shall be made publicly available and transmitted to the European Parliament.

Or. en

Amendment 138

Proposal for a regulation

Article 11 – paragraph 1 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1a. The distribution of the amount set out in paragraph 1 of this Article shall be as follows:
(a) 46,4% of the financial envelope shall be allocated for the specific objectives set out in Chapters II, IIa and III (Culture - Creative Europe, Culture - Music and Culture -MEDIA strands);
(b) 11,7% of the financial envelope shall be allocated for the specific objectives set out in Chapter IIIa (Information and Journalism strand);
(c) 41,9% of the financial envelope shall be allocated for the specific objectives set out in Chapters IV, Iva and IVb (CERV+, Daphne and Union Values strands).

Or. en

Amendment 139

Proposal for a regulation

Article 11 – paragraph 1 b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1b. Within the amount set out in point (a) of paragraph 1a, the following indicative amounts shall be allocated to the following objectives:
(a) at least 30% shall be allocated to the Culture - Creative Europe strand;
(b)at least 15% shall be allocated to the Culture - Music strand;
(c) at least 55% shall be allocated to the Culture - MEDIA strand.

Or. en

Amendment 140

Proposal for a regulation

Article 11 – paragraph 1 c (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1c. Within the amount set out in point (c) of paragraph 1a, the following indicative amounts shall be allocated to the following objectives:
(a) at least 40 % shall be allocated to the CERV+ strand;
(b) at least 30 % shall be allocated to the Daphne strand;
(c) at least 30 % shall be allocated to the Union Values strand.

Or. en

Amendment 141

Proposal for a regulation

Article 11 – paragraph 1 d (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1d. Within the amounts set out for the specific objectives set out in Articles 7, 8, 9, 9a and 9b (CERV+, Daphne and Union Values strands), at least 85% shall be allocated to support activities carried out by civil society organisations, in particular local and regional civil society organisations.

Or. en

Amendment 142

Proposal for a regulation

Article 11 – paragraph 4

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
4. The financial envelope referred to in paragraph 1 of this Article and the amounts of additional resources referred to in Article 12 may also be used for technical and administrative assistance for the implementation of the Programme, such as preparatory, monitoring, control, audit and evaluation activities, corporate information technology systems and platforms, information and communication activities, including corporate communication on the political priorities of the Union, and all other technical and administrative assistance or staff-related expenses incurred by the Commission for the management of the Programme.4. The financial envelope referred to in paragraph 1 of this Article and the amounts of additional resources referred to in Article 12 may also be used for technical and administrative assistance for the implementation of the Programme, such as preparatory, monitoring, control, audit and evaluation activities, studies, meetings of experts, information technology systems and platforms, information and communication activities on priorities and areas related to the general objectives of the Programme.

Or. en

Amendment 143

Proposal for a regulation

Article 11 – paragraph 4 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
4a. The financial envelope referred to in paragraph 1 of this Article and the amounts of additional resources referred to in Article 12 shall not be used for corporate communication on the political priorities of the Union, technical and administrative assistance or staff related expenses incurred by the Commission for the management of the programme.

Or. en

Amendment 144

Proposal for a regulation

Article 12 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. Member States, Union institutions, bodies and agencies, third countries, international organisations, international financial institutions, or other third parties, may make additional financial or non-financial contributions to the Programme. Additional financial contributions shall constitute external assigned revenue within the meaning of Article 21(2), points (a), (d), or (e), or Article 21(5) of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509.1. Member States, Union institutions, bodies and agencies, third countries, international organisations, international financial institutions, or other third parties, may make additional financial or non-financial contributions to the Programme. Such additional contributions shall be implemented in line with the objectives of the Programme. Additional financial contributions shall constitute external assigned revenue within the meaning of Article 21(2), points (a), (d), or (e), or Article 21(5) of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509.

Or. en

Amendment 145

Proposal for a regulation

Article 12 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2. Resources allocated to Member States under shared management may, at their request, be made available to the Programme. The Commission shall implement those resources directly or indirectly in accordance with Article 62(1), point (a) or (c), of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509. They shall be additional to the amount referred to in Article 11(1) of this Regulation. Those resources shall be used for the benefit of the Member State concerned. Where the Commission has not entered into a legal commitment under direct or indirect management for additional amounts thus made available to the Programme, the corresponding uncommitted amounts may, at the request of the Member State concerned, be transferred back to one or more respective source programmes or their successors.2. Resources allocated to Member States under shared management may, at their request, be made available to the Programme. The Commission shall implement those resources directly or indirectly in accordance with Article 62(1), point (a) or (c), of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509. They shall be additional to the amount referred to in Article 11(1) of this Regulation. Those resources shall be used for the benefit of the Member State concerned and comply with the Union values referred to in Article 2 TEU. Where the Commission has not entered into a legal commitment under direct or indirect management for additional amounts thus made available to the Programme, the corresponding uncommitted amounts may, at the request of the Member State concerned, be transferred back to one or more respective source programmes or their successors.

Or. en

Amendment 146

Proposal for a regulation

Article 12 – paragraph 2 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2a. Appropriations corresponding to decommitments made pursuant to Article 7(3) of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2020/2092 of the European Parliament and of the Council1a and Articles 8 and 9 of the Regulation (EU) [XXX]* of the European Parliament and of the Council [NRPP]1b shall constitute assigned revenue within the meaning of Article 21 of Regulation (EU) 2024/2509. Those amounts shall be used to support final beneficiaries, in particular civil society organisations, and where relevant, local and regional authorities respecting Union values enshrined in Article 2 TEU, to ensure that the decommitment of funds does not negatively affect final beneficiaries of Union funding.
1a Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2020/2092 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 December 2020 on a general regime of conditionality for the protection of the Union budget (OJ L 433I 22.12.2020, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2020/2092/oj).
1b Regulation (EU) …/… of the European Parliament and of the Council of … stablishing the European Fund for economic, social and territorial cohesion, agriculture and rural, fisheries and maritime, prosperity and security for the period 2028-2034 and amending Regulation (EU) 2023/955 and Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 (OJ L…).

Or. en

Amendment 147

Proposal for a regulation

Article 12 – paragraph 2 b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2b. Revenues from fines imposed under Regulations (EU) 2022/1925, (EU) 2022/2065 and (EU) 2024/1689 shall be made available as an additional allocation of commitment and payment appropriations to the Programme.

Or. en

Amendment 148

Proposal for a regulation

Article 13 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. The Programme shall be implemented in synergy with other Union programmes. An action that has received Union contribution from another programme may also receive a contribution under this Programme. The rules of the relevant Union programme shall apply to the corresponding contribution, or a single set of rules may be applied to all contributions and a single legal commitment may be concluded. If all Union contributions are provided based on eligible cost, the cumulative support from the Union budget shall not exceed the total eligible costs of the action and may be calculated on a pro-rata basis in accordance with the documents setting out the conditions for support.1. The Programme shall be implemented in synergy with other Union programmes. Such synergies shall be implemented in full compliance with the objectives set out in Article 3 and the cross-cutting and horizontal priorities and activities referred to in Article 10. An action that has received Union contribution from another programme may also receive a contribution under this Programme. The rules of the relevant Union programme shall apply to the corresponding contribution, or a single set of rules may be applied to all contributions and a single legal commitment may be concluded. If all Union contributions are provided based on eligible cost, the cumulative support from the Union budget shall not exceed the total eligible costs of the action and may be calculated on a pro-rata basis in accordance with the documents setting out the conditions for support.

Or. en

Amendment 149

Proposal for a regulation

Article 14 – paragraph 1 – introductory part

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. The Programme may be opened to the participation of the following third countries through full or partial association, in accordance with the objectives laid down in Article 3 and in accordance with the relevant international agreements or any decisions adopted under the framework of those agreements and applicable to:1. The Programme may be opened to the participation of the following third countries through full or partial association, in accordance with the objectives laid down in Article 3, provided that they provide the appropriate financial contribution to the Programme:

Or. en

Amendment 150

Proposal for a regulation

Article 14 – paragraph 1 – point a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) members of the European Free Trade Association which are members of the European Economic Area, as well as European micro-states;(a) members of the European Free Trade Association which are members of the European Economic Area, in accordance with the conditions laid down in the Agreement on the European Economic Area, as well as European micro-states in accordance with the conditions laid down in the relevant agreements;

Or. en

Amendment 151

Proposal for a regulation

Article 14 – paragraph 1 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) acceding countries, candidate countries and potential candidates;(b) acceding countries, candidate countries and potential candidates, 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 Council decisions on association or in similar agreements and in accordance with the specific conditions laid down in agreements between the Union and those countries;

Or. en

Amendment 152

Proposal for a regulation

Article 14 – paragraph 1 – point c

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(c) European Neighbourhood Policy countries;(c) European Neighbourhood Policy countries, in accordance with the general principles, terms and conditions for the participation of those countries in Union programmes established in the respective framework agreements and Council decisions on association or in similar agreements and in accordance with the specific conditions laid down in agreements between the Union and those countries;

Or. en

Amendment 153

Proposal for a regulation

Article 14 – paragraph 1 – point d

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(d) other third countries.(d) other third countries, in accordance with the conditions laid down in a specific agreement covering the participation of the third country in any Union programme.

Or. en

Amendment 154

Proposal for a regulation

Article 14 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – introductory part

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
The Association Agreements for participation in the Programmes shall:The association agreements for participation in the Programme pursuant to this Article shall:

Or. en

Amendment 155

Proposal for a regulation

Article 14 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point e

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(e) where relevant, ensure the protection of security and public order interests of the Union.(e) where relevant, ensure the protection of security and public order interests of the Union, in full compliance with international human rights law and the Charter of Fundamental Rights.

Or. en

Amendment 156

Proposal for a regulation

Article 14 – paragraph 3

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
3. The association agreements granting participation in the ‘Audiovisual’ specific objective referred to in Article 3 shall take into account the situation of the audiovisual market in the country concerned, including the proximity of their legal framework with the Union audiovisual media acquis and the access to its equivalent support schemes, in particular with regard to other European countries. The agreements concluded with the countries referred to in paragraph 1 (b) shall require the alignment of their national law to Directive 2010/13/EU to grant participation in the ‘Audiovisual’ specific objective.3. The association agreements granting participation in the Culture - MEDIA strand referred to in Chapter III shall take into account the situation of the audiovisual market in the country concerned, including the alignment of their legal framework with the Union audiovisual media acquis and the access to its equivalent support schemes, in particular with regard to other European countries. The agreements concluded with the countries referred to in paragraph 1 shall require the full alignment of their national law to Directive 2010/13/EU to grant participation in the ‘Audiovisual’ specific objective.

Or. en

Amendment 157

Proposal for a regulation

Article 15 – paragraph 2 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2a. Grants under the Programme shall be awarded and managed in accordance with Title VIII of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509.

Or. en

Amendment 158

Proposal for a regulation

Article 15 – paragraph 2 b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2b. The Programme shall provide the possibility for financial support to third parties within the meaning of Article 207 of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509, to ensure the accessibility of funding for civil society organisations at local, regional, national and transnational levels.

Or. en

Amendment 159

Proposal for a regulation

Article 15 – paragraph 2 c (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2c. Local, regional, national and transnational entities shall be eligible for support through multiannual operating grants, financial support to third parties, and simplified and flexible grant award procedures, such as a two-step-application procedure, as well as more flexible lump-sum funding system. Where appropriate, Union funding of up to 100% of eligible costs may be granted.

Or. en

Amendment 160

Proposal for a regulation

Article 15 – paragraph 4 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
4a. The additional financing made available under Article 12(2a) and (2b) of this Regulation shall be implemented exclusively under direct management by the Commission or by a competent Union body, office or agency. That shall ensure that final beneficiaries respecting Union values enshrined in Article 2 TEU have direct and independent access to Union funding and are not negatively affected by the measures taken pursuant to Article 7(3) of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2020/2092 and Articles 8 and 9 of Regulation (EU) [XXX]* [NRPP].

Or. en

Amendment 161

Proposal for a regulation

Article 15 – paragraph 5 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
5a. The Programme shall provide for predictable and multiannual award of operating grants to entities which are involved in the development, implementation and enforcement of Union legislation and policy, and which are primarily active in the areas covered by the Programme to ensure their independence and sustainability, in accordance with Article 183(2)(b) of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509.

Or. en

Amendment 162

Proposal for a regulation

Article 15 – paragraph 6

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
6. Where Union funding is provided in the form of a grant, funding shall be provided as financing not linked to costs or, where necessary, simplified cost options, in accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509. Funding may be provided in the form of actual eligible cost reimbursement only where the objectives of an action cannot be achieved otherwise.6. Where Union funding is provided in the form of a grant, funding shall be provided as financing not linked to costs or, where necessary, simplified cost options, in accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509. Funding may be provided in the form of actual eligible cost reimbursement only where the objectives of an action cannot be achieved otherwise. Grants awarded under the Programme shall include action grants, multiannual operating grants and financial support to third parties.

Or. en

Amendment 163

Proposal for a regulation

Article 15 – paragraph 6 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
6a. By way of derogation from Article 198 of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509, a direct award procedure may be used for low-value grants to civic space actors under threat referred to Article 9b of this Regulation in order to finance urgent protection actions and related immediate needs with the Union contribution of up to 100%.

Or. en

Amendment 164

Proposal for a regulation

Article 15 – paragraph 7

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
7. For the purposes of Article 153(3) of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509, the evaluation committee may be composed partially or fully of independent external experts.7. For the purposes of Article 153(3) of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509, gender balance shall be ensured in the composition of the evaluation committee and it may be composed partially or fully of independent external experts.

Or. en

Amendment 165

Proposal for a regulation

Article 15 – paragraph 8

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
8. Entities applying for a funding under the Creative Europe - Culture strand of the Programme that have received over 50% of their annual revenue from public sources over the last two years, shall be considered as having the necessary financial, professional and administrative capacity to carry out activities under the Programme. They shall not be required to present further documentation to demonstrate that capacity.8. Entities applying for funding under the 'Culture - Creative Europe' and 'Culture - Music' strands of the Programme that have received over 50% of their annual revenue from public sources over the last two years, shall be considered as having the necessary financial, professional and administrative capacity to carry out activities under the Programme. They shall not be required to present further documentation to demonstrate that capacity.

Or. en

Amendment 166

Proposal for a regulation

Article 15 – paragraph 8 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
8a. Application procedures shall be user-friendly and reporting procedures shall be operationalised, more efficient and further strengthened as part of the implementation of the Programme. The administrative burden on recipients of funding under the Programme shall be reduced, including as regards the administrative requirements during the application procedure and reporting requirements.

Or. en

Amendment 167

Proposal for a regulation

Article 16 – paragraph 2 – point c

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(c) international organisations;(c) entities created under Union law, or international organisations;

Or. en

Amendment 168

Proposal for a regulation

Article 16 – paragraph 2 – point d

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(d) other entities established in non-associated third countries where the funding of such entities is essential for implementing the action and contributes to the objectives laid down in Article 3.(d) exceptionally and provided that the third country concerned is included in the work programme, other legal entities established in third countries not participating in the Programme and that operate in the cultural and creative sectors where their participation is strictly necessary for implementing the objectives of a given action which contributes to the achievement of the objectives laid down in Article 3.

Or. en

Amendment 169

Proposal for a regulation

Article 16 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
The entities referred to in the first subparagraph, point (d), shall bear the cost of their participation.

Or. en

Amendment 170

Proposal for a regulation

Article 16 – paragraph 2 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2a. Entities referred in paragraph 2 (a) and (b) eligible for funding under the 'Culture - Creative Europe', 'Culture - Music' and 'Culture - MEDIA' strands shall be established in a country that fully participates in those strands. In addition, they shall be owned directly or indirectly, wholly or by majority participation, by nationals from such countries. When a company is publicly listed, the location of the stock exchange will in principle determine its place of establishment. Natural persons are not eligible to receive grants, with the exception self-employed persons or their equivalent (i.e. sole traders) where the company does not possess a legal personality separate from that of the natural person.

Or. en

Amendment 171

Proposal for a regulation

Article 16 – paragraph 4

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
4. Award procedures affecting security or public order, in particular concerning strategic assets and interests of the Union or its Member States, shall be restricted in accordance with Article 136 of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509.deleted

Or. en

Amendment 172

Proposal for a regulation

Article 16 – paragraph 5

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
5. The work programme referred to in Article 110 of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 may further specify the eligibility criteria set out in this Regulation or set additional eligibility criteria for specific actions.deleted

Or. en

Amendment 173

Proposal for a regulation

Article 16 – paragraph 6 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
6a. Contracts with authors for the activities funded under the Programme shall comply with Union copyright law, particularly by ensuring that authors receive fair and proportionate remuneration.

Or. en

Amendment 174

Proposal for a regulation

Article 17 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
The Programme shall be implemented by work programmes referred to in Article 110 Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509. The work programmes shall set out, where applicable, the activities and related amounts of Union support to be implemented through the ECF InvestEU instrument.1. The Programme shall be implemented by annual work programmes referred to in Article 110 Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509. The work programmes shall set out the activities and related amounts of Union support, including the activities and related amounts to be implemented through the ECF InvestEU instrument.

Or. en

Amendment 175

Proposal for a regulation

Article 17 – paragraph 1 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1a. The annual work programmes shall give an indication of the amount allocated to each action and set out, where applicable, the overall amount reserved for blending operations. Annual work programmes shall also contain an indicative timetable for implementation.

Or. en

Amendment 176

Proposal for a regulation

Article 17 – paragraph 1 b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1b. The annual work programmes shall be adopted by means of delegated acts, in accordance with Article 17c.

Or. en

Amendment 177

Proposal for a regulation

Article 17 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Article 17a
Monitoring and reporting
1. The Commission shall ensure the independent monitoring of the Programme on progress towards the achievement of the general and specific objectives of the Programme.
2. In addition to the relevant indicators in Regulation (EU) [XXX]* [Performance], the Commission shall use the indicators in Annex II to monitor and report on progress towards the achievement of the objectives of the Programme. Where relevant, the Commission shall also take into account qualitative and quantitative indicators additional to those listed in Annex II.
3. To ensure the effective assessment of the progress towards the achievement of the objectives of the Programme, the Commission is empowered to adopt delegated acts, in accordance with Article 17c, to amend Annex II with regard to the indicators where considered necessary as well as to supplement this Regulation with provisions on the establishment of a monitoring and evaluation framework.
4. The Commission shall establish the methodology, as well as put in place simplified and cost-effective empirical tools, for the monitoring and reporting following the consultation with the AgoraEU Dialogue Platform pursuant to Article 10a.
5. The Commission shall ensure that disaggregated data for monitoring the implementation and the results of the Programme is collected efficiently, effectively and in a timely manner. To that end, proportionate reporting requirements shall be imposed on the beneficiaries of funds under the Programme.
6. The Commission shall report annually to the European Parliament and to the Council on progress towards the achievement of the objectives of the Programme.

Or. en

Amendment 178

Proposal for a regulation

Article 17 b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Article17b
Evaluation
1.The Commission shall ensure that independent evaluations of the Programme are carried out in a timely manner with a view to feeding into the decision-making process.
2. The Commission shall consult the AgoraEU Dialogue Platform pursuant to Article 10a to carry out the evaluations of the Programme.
3. The Commission shall carry out an independent interim evaluation of the Programme once there is sufficient information available about the implementation of the Programme but no later than the 31st of December 2032. The interim evaluation shall take into account the results of the evaluations of the long-term impact of the predecessor Programmes.
4. The Commission shall carry out a final evaluation of the Programme after 31 December 2034, but in any event, no later than the 31st of December 2036.

Or. en

Amendment 179

Proposal for a regulation

Article 17 c (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Article 17c
Exercise of the delegation
1. The power to adopt delegated acts is conferred on the Commission subject to the conditions laid down in this Article.
2. The power to adopt delegated acts referred to in Articles 17 and 17a shall be conferred on the Commission until 31 December 2034.
3. The delegation of power referred to in Articles 17 and 17a may be revoked at any time by the European Parliament or by the Council. A decision to revoke shall put an end to the delegation of power specified in that decision. It shall take effect the day following the publication of the decision in the Official Journal of the European Union or at a later date specified therein. It shall not affect the validity of any delegated acts already in force.
4. Before adopting a delegated act, the Commission shall consult experts designated by each Member State in accordance with the principles laid down in the Interinstitutional Agreement of 13 April 2016 on Better Law-Making.
5. As soon as it adopts a delegated act, the Commission shall notify it simultaneously to the European Parliament and to the Council.
6. A delegated act adopted pursuant to Article 17 or 17a shall enter into force only if no objection has been expressed either by the European Parliament or by the Council within a period of two months of notification of that act to the European Parliament and the Council, or if, before the expiry of that period, the European Parliament and the Council have both informed the Commission that they will not object. That period shall be extended by two months at the initiative of the European Parliament or of the Council.

Or. en

Amendment 180

Proposal for a regulation

Article 17 d (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Article 17d
Protection of the financial interests of the Union
Where a third country participates in the Programme by means of a decision adopted pursuant to an international agreement or on the basis of any other legal instrument, that third country shall grant the necessary rights and access required for the authorising officer responsible, OLAF and the Court of Auditors to fully exercise their respective competences. In the case of OLAF, such rights shall include the right to carry out investigations, including on-the-spot checks and inspections, as provided for in Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013.

Or. en

Amendment 181

Proposal for a regulation

Article 17 e (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Article 17e
Information, communication and visibility
Beneficiaries of Union funding shall indicate the source of such funding and ensure its visibility. In particular, when promoting actions and their results, they shall provide clear, consistent and proportionate information tailored to various target audiences, including the media and the general public. This communication shall notably include the name of the Programme and, for actions supported under the Culture - MEDIA strand, the MEDIA logo provided for in Annex III. The Commission shall carry out information and communication activities relating to the Programme, the measures implemented under it, and the results achieved.

Or. en

Amendment 182

Proposal for a regulation

Article 19 – paragraph 2 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2a. Where necessary, appropriations may be entered in the Union budget beyond 2034 to cover the expenses provided for in Article 11(4a) to enable the management of actions not completed by 31 December 2034.

Or. en

Amendment 183

Proposal for a regulation

Annex I (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Annex I
DESCRIPTION OF THE PROGRAMME ACTIONS
SECTION 1
Culture - Creative Europe Strand
The priorities of the Culture - Creative Europe strand referred to in Article 4 shall be pursued, including with the aim of strengthening the circulation of European works in a digital and multilingual environment, and where appropriate, by means of translation, regardless of the type of medium used, through the following actions, the details of which, including possible higher co-financing rates for small-scale projects, shall be defined in the work programmes:
Horizontal actions:
Horizontal actions aim to support all the cultural and creative sectors, with the exception of the audiovisual sector, in addressing common challenges they face at European level.
In particular, horizontal actions shall co-finance transnational projects for collaboration, networking, mobility and internationalisation, including through residency programmes, touring, events, exhibitions and festivals.
The following horizontal actions shall be supported under the Programme:
(a) transnational cooperation projects that bring together organisations in the cultural and creative sectors of all sizes, including micro-organisations and small-sized organisations, and from different countries to undertake sectoral or cross-sectoral activities;
(b) European networks of organisations in the cultural and creative sectors from different countries;
(c) cultural and creative pan-European platforms;
(d) transnational mobility of artists and operators in the cultural and creative sectors and the transnational circulation of artistic and cultural works;
(e) support, including in terms of capacity building, to organisations in the cultural and creative sectors in order to help them operate at the international level;
(f) policy development, cooperation and implementation in the field of culture, including through the provision of data and the exchange of best practices, pilot projects and incentives to promote gender equality.
Sectoral actions:
To respond to shared needs within the Union, the following sectoral actions shall be supported in those cultural and creative sectors whose specificities or specific challenges require a more targeted approach that complements the horizontal actions:
(a) support to the book and publishing sector: targeted actions that promote diversity, creativity and innovation, the promotion of European literature across borders in Europe and beyond, including in libraries, training and exchanges for sector professionals, authors and translators and transnational projects for collaboration, innovation and development in that sector; targeted actions that promote the translation of literature and, where possible, the adaptation of literature into accessible formats for people with disabilities;
(b) support to architecture and cultural heritage for a quality built environment: targeted actions for the mobility, capacity-building and internationalisation of architecture and cultural heritage operators; the promotion of Baukultur, peer learning and audience engagement in order to disseminate high-quality principles in contemporary architecture and cultural heritage interventions; support to the sustainable safeguarding, the regeneration and the adaptive reuse of cultural heritage and the promotion of its values through awareness-raising and networking activities;
(c) support to other sectors of artistic creation where specific needs are identified, including targeted actions for the development of the creative aspects of sustainable cultural tourism and of the design and fashion sectors and for the promotion and representation of those other sectors of artistic creation outside the Union.
Special actions that aim to render European cultural and linguistic diversity and heritage visible and tangible and to nurture intercultural dialogue:
(a) financial support to the European Capitals of Culture;
(b) financial support to the European Heritage Label and networking activities between the sites awarded the European Heritage Label;
(c) Union cultural prizes;
(d) European Heritage Days;
(e) support to European cultural entities such as orchestras that aim to train and promote young, high-potential artists and have an inclusive approach with a large geographical coverage, or entities that deliver direct cultural services to European citizens with a large geographical coverage.
SECTION 2
Culture - Music strand
The following actions shall be supported:
(a) transnational cooperation projects bringing together organisations active across the music value chain to foster creation, production, circulation and promotion of European musical works and repertoires;
(b) the creation and functioning of European networks of music organisations, including venues, festivals, labels, publishers and professional associations, aimed at strengthening capacity, structured cooperation and resilience of the sector;
(c) support to the transnational mobility of artists and music professionals, including touring, residencies and internationalisation activities, with particular attention to emerging artists and underrepresented groups;
(d) support to the circulation, visibility and discoverability of European music, including through live performances, broadcasting and digital distribution, with a view to enhancing access to diverse audiences across the Union and beyond;
(e) capacity-building actions for music sector operators, in particular small and medium-sized organisations and independent actors, including as regards skills development, entrepreneurship, digital transition and adaptation to market developments;
(f) support for improved access to funding, including simplified application procedures, where appropriate a two-stage application process, and flexible funding conditions, including the possibility of Union funding of up to 100 %;
(g) support for data collection, analysis and dissemination, including through the development of a European Music Observatory, contributing to transparency, market intelligence and evidence-based policy-making;
(h) policy development, cooperation and exchange of best practices in the music sector, including initiatives addressing gender equality, inclusion, accessibility, fair remuneration, social protection, mental well-being and safe working environments.
SECTION 3
Culture - MEDIA strand
The priorities of the Culture - MEDIA strand referred to in Article 5 shall take into account the requirements of Directive 2010/13/EU and the differences across countries regarding the production and distribution of, and access to, audiovisual works and the size and specificities of their respective markets and linguistic diversity, and shall be pursued through the following actions, the details of which shall be defined in the work programmes:
(a) the development of audiovisual works by independent European audiovisual production companies, covering a variety of formats (such as feature films, short films, series, documentaries and narrative video games) and genres, and targeting diverse audiences, including children and young people;
(b) the production of innovative and quality TV content and serial storytelling, addressing diverse audiences, by independent European audiovisual production companies;
(c) promotion and marketing tools, including online and through the use of data analytics, to increase the prominence, visibility, cross-border access, and audience reach of European works;
(d) support to international sales and circulation of non-national European works on all platforms (e.g. cinema theatres, online) and film distributors and sales agents in acquiring, adapting, promoting, and releasing non-national European films in cinemas and on digital platforms, targeting both small and large-sized productions, including through automatic support and coordinated distribution strategies covering several countries and encouraging the use of subtitling, dubbing and, where applicable, audio description tools;
(e) support to the multilingual access to cultural TV programmes online through subtitling;
(f) support to networking activities for audiovisual professionals, including creators, and business-to-business exchanges to nurture and promote talent in the European audiovisual sector, and facilitate the development and distribution of European and international co-creations and co-productions;
(g) support to activities of European audiovisual operators at industry events and fairs in Europe and beyond;
(h) support to the visibility and outreach of European films and audiovisual creations aimed at wide European audiences beyond national borders, especially young people and multipliers, including through the organisation of screenings, communication, dissemination and promotion activities in support of European Awards, in particular ‘LUX - the European Audience Film Award by the European Parliament and the European Film Academy’;
(i) initiatives promoting audience development and engagement, including film education activities, addressing in particular young audiences;
(j) training and mentoring activities to enhance the capacity of audiovisual professionals to adapt to new creative processes, market developments and digital technologies that affect the whole value chain including through targeted measures such as residencies, mobility schemes, peer-learning and exchange formats, mentoring, networking platforms and customised capacity-building actions, with a view to enabling creators and screen directors to develop their projects, share experiences — including on matters such as self-censorship — benefit from mutual learning, and strengthen their skills, in particular with regard to emerging technologies and their responsible use;
(k) a network or networks of European Video on Demand operators, screening a significant proportion of non-national European works;
(l) European festivals and a European festivals’ network or European festivals’ networks screening a significant proportion of non-national European works, while preserving their identity and unique profile;
(m) a European cinema operators’ network, with a broad geographic coverage, screening a significant proportion of non-national European films, fostering the role of European cinemas in the circulation of European works and making sure that cinema operators receive sufficient financial support and incentives to program and showcase those films;
(n) specific measures to contribute to a more balanced gender participation in the audiovisual sector, including studies, mentoring, training and networking activities;
(o) support to policy dialogue, innovative policy actions and exchange of best practices – including through analytical activities and the provision of reliable data;
(p) transnational exchange of experiences and know-how, peer learning activities and networking among the audiovisual sector and policy makers.
SECTION 4
Information and Journalism strand
Specific activities and actions shall be supported provided that they contribute to:
(a) the protection of journalists, media professionals and civil society organisations;
(b) the protection and promotion of a safe, viable, independent, diverse and democratic information ecosystem;
(c) the production of journalistic content;
(d) the distribution and access to content;
(e) the promotion of the digital transformation and innovation;
(f) the strengthening of local media, diversity, and inclusion;
(g) the promotion of media, information and digital literacy;
(h) the guaranteeing of the respect for editorial independence and professional standards.
SECTION 5
CERV+ strand
Specific activities and actions shall be supported provided that they contribute to:
(a) awareness raising, promotion and the dissemination of information within the areas and objectives covered by the strand in order to improve knowledge of Union values enshrined in Article 2 TEU and related policies;
(b) mutual learning and the exchange of good practices among stakeholders to improve knowledge and mutual understanding;
(c) analytical and monitoring activities to improve the understanding of the situation in Member States and at Union level in the areas covered by the strand as well as to improve the implementation of Union law, policies and values within Member States, such as activities including the collection of disaggregated data and statistics; the development of common methodologies and, where appropriate, of indicators or of benchmarks, studies, research, analyses and surveys, evaluations, impact assessments, and the development and publication of guides, reports and educational material;
(d) training relevant stakeholders to improve knowledge of the policies and rights in the areas covered by the strand;
(e) developing and maintaining information and communication technology tools;
(f) supporting civil society organisations and other civic space actors active in the areas covered by the strand:
(i) to increase their capacity to react, and to ensure adequate access for all citizens to their services, counselling activities and support activities;
(ii) to carry out advocacy activities to promote rights, thereby also strengthening the protection and promotion of Union values and respect for the rule of law, and contributing to democratic dialogue, transparency and good governance, including in cases of shrinking space for civil society;
(g) encouraging and facilitating active and inclusive participation in the construction of a more democratic Union, as well as raising awareness of rights and values through the provision of support to civil society organisations;
(h) developing the capacity of civic space actors to promote, monitor and further develop Union law, values, policy goals and strategies;
(i) financing technical and organisational support for the implementation of Regulation (EU) 2019/788, thereby underpinning the exercise by citizens of the right to launch and support European citizens’ initiatives.
SECTION 6
Daphne strand
Specific activities and actions shall be supported provided that they contribute to:
(a) awareness raising, promotion and the dissemination of information within the areas and objectives covered by the strand in order to improve knowledge of Union values enshrined in Article 2 TEU and related policies;
(b) mutual learning and the exchange of good practices among stakeholders to improve knowledge and mutual understanding;
(c) analytical and monitoring activities to improve the understanding of the situation in Member States and at Union level in the areas covered by the strand as well as to improve the implementation of Union law, policies and values within Member States, such as activities including the collection of disaggregated data and statistics; the development of common methodologies and, where appropriate, of indicators or of benchmarks, studies, research, analyses and surveys, evaluations, impact assessments, and the development and publication of guides, reports and educational material;
(d) training relevant stakeholders to improve knowledge of the policies and rights in the areas covered by the strand;
(e) developing and maintaining information and communication technology tools;
(f) supporting civil society organisations and other civic space actors active in the areas covered by the strand:
(i) to increase their capacity to react, and to ensure adequate access for all citizens to their services, counselling activities and support activities;
(ii) to carry out advocacy activities to promote rights, thereby also strengthening the protection and promotion of Union values and respect for the rule of law, and contributing to democratic dialogue, transparency and good governance, including in cases of shrinking space for civil society;
(g) encouraging and facilitating active and inclusive participation in the construction of a more democratic Union, as well as raising awareness of rights and values through the provision of support to civil society organisations;
(h) developing the capacity of civic space actors to promote, monitor and further develop Union law, values, policy goals and strategies.
SECTION 7
Union Values strand
Specific activities and actions shall be supported provided that they contribute to::
(a) the guaranteeing of civic space resilience;
(b) the provision of holistic, independent and immediate support against attacks and threats from hostile actors that seek to undermine Union values enshrined in Article 2 TEU.

Or. en

Amendment 184

Proposal for a regulation

Annex II (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Annex II
INDICATORS
Culture - Creative Europe strand:
The number and scale of transnational partnerships created with the support of the Programme, indicating the country of origin of the beneficiary.
The number of artists and operators in the cultural and creative sectors that have moved beyond national borders due to the support received, indicating the country of origin and the proportion of women.
The number of people who have accessed European cultural and creative works supported by the Programme, including works from countries other than their own.
The number of projects supported by the Programme addressed to local communities and socially marginalised groups.
The number of projects supported by the Programme involving organisations from third countries.
Culture - Music strand:
The number of people who attended a live event supported under the strand.
The number of touring initiatives and festivals supported under the strand.
The number of people reached by business-to-business promotional activities in major markets.
The number of venues supported under the strand.
The number of projects supported under the strand addressed to local communities and socially marginalised groups.
The number of participants in learning activities supported under the strand who have assessed that they have improved their competences and increased their employability, indicating the proportion of women.
Qualitative evidence of success stories in the artistic, business and technological innovation fields due to support received under the strand.
Culture - MEDIA strand:
The number of people who have accessed European audiovisual works supported under the strand from countries other than their own.
The number of participants in learning activities supported under the strand who have assessed that they have improved their competences and increased their employability, indicating the proportion of women.
The number, budget and geographical origins of co-productions developed, created and distributed with the support of the strand and co-productions with partners from countries with different audiovisual capacities.
The number of audiovisual works in lesser-used languages developed, produced and distributed with the support of the strand.
The number of people reached by business-to-business promotional activities in major markets.
The number and scale of transnational partnerships created with the support of the strand, indicating the country of origin of the beneficiary.
Qualitative evidence of success stories in the artistic, business and technological innovation fields due to support received under the strand.
Information and Journalism strand:
The number of news media outlets, journalists and civil society organisations to supported under the strand.
The number of new media outlets and journalists operating at the local level supported under the strand.
The number of participants in learning activities supported under the strand who have assessed that they have improved their competences and increased their employability, indicating the proportion of women.
The number of journalists that received help through the projects supported under the strand, indicating the proportion of women.
The number of self-regulatory instruments supported under the strand.
CERV+, Daphne and Union Values strands
The number of people reached by: training activities; mutual learning activities and the exchange of good practices; awareness raising, information and dissemination activities.
The number of civil society organisations reached by support and capacity-building activities.
The number of transnational networks and initiatives focusing on European memory and heritage as a result of the Programme intervention.
The number of victims of gender-based violence that have directly or indirectly benefited from the Daphne strand.
The number of civic space actors that have benefited from the Union Values strand.
Horizontal indicators for all strands:
Additional relevant indicators to assess measurable contribution to:
(a) the promotion of gender equality and diversity;
(b) reducing social and economic inequalities;
(c) promoting safe and fair working conditions;
(d) strengthening democratic and inclusive participation;
(e)ensuring accessibility for persons with disabilities.
All data shall be disaggregated by sex whenever possible.
The interim and final evaluations of the Programme shall focus on each strand and on each activity and action, and shall include a gender equality perspective and evaluate impacts on gender equality.

Or. en

Amendment 185

Proposal for a regulation

Annex III (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Annex III
The Culture - MEDIA strand logo shall be as follows

Or. en