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EU Parl Watch

opinion parliamentary committee, 3 September 2026

On the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing 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

Document EMPL-AD-784343 · (COM(2025)0565 – C100179/2025 – 2025/0240(COD))

Committee on Employment and Social Affairs · Rapporteur: Sérgio Humberto

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AMENDMENTS

The Committee on Employment and Social Affairs hereby submits the following to the Committee on Budgets, the Committee on Regional Development and the Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development, as the committees responsible:

Amendment 1

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 1 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(1a) On 17 November 2017, the European Pillar of Social Rights was jointly proclaimed by the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission as a response to social challenges in Europe. The 20 key principles of the Pillar are structured in three categories: equal opportunities and access to the labour market; fair working conditions; and social protection and inclusion. The 20 principles of the Pillar should be taken into account when designing the actions under the National Regional Partnership Plan.

Amendment 2

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 4

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(4) Article 162 TFEU highlights the objectives to be pursued to improve employment opportunities for workers in the internal market and to contribute to raising the standard of living.(4) Article 162 TFEU establishes the European Social Fund (ESF) with set objectives to improve employment opportunities for workers in the internal market and to contribute to raising the standard of living.

Amendment 3

Proposal for a regulation

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Recital 5

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(5) Article 152 TFEU recognises social dialogue as a key component of the European social model and a common objective of the Union and its Member States.(5) Article 152 TFEU recognises the role of social partners and facilitation of social dialogue as a key component of the European social model and a common objective of the Union and its Member States.

Amendment 4

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 6

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(6) Articles 9, 19 and 153 TFEU provide for a comprehensive framework on social inclusion, including combatting poverty and discrimination, as core objective of the Union. This aims at ensuring that all citizens have the opportunities and resources to fully participate in economic, social, and cultural life. This includes access to the labour market, equal access to facilities, services, and benefits, promoting a standard of living and well-being in line with the EU values.(6) Articles 9, 19 and 153 TFEU provide for a comprehensive framework on social inclusion, social protection and cohesive societies including through aiming to eradicate poverty and combatting any form of discrimination, as core objectives of the Union. This aims at ensuring that all citizens have the opportunities and resources to fully participate in economic, social, and cultural life. This includes equal opportunities and access to the labour market, equal access to facilities, services, and benefits, promoting quality standard of living and well-being in line with the Union values and the principles set out in the European Pillar of Social Rights. In accordance with the set principles and the provision of protecting democracy as enshrined in Article 2 TEU, human rights, gender equality, and rights of persons with disabilities or minorities should be respected.

Amendment 5

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 7

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(7) The Union needs to achieve its objectives within a challenging economic, social and demographic context including persisting regional and territorial disparities, the impacts of climate change and challenges related to food security and nature protection, insufficient and uneven progress on the Union’s digital transformation, undermining efforts to strengthen the Union’s digital sovereignty as well as significant economic and social consequences. That is coupled with a challenging geopolitical and geoeconomic context that has an impact on the Union’s defence, security (including economic security) and migration policies. Effectively addressing these challenges requires a more focused, simple and impactful Union budget, to ensure the Union added value and clear alignment between Union financial support and Union policy priorities across all policy areas and management modes and to [continue efforts to] simplify rules on Union financial support.(7) The Union needs to achieve its objectives within a challenging economic, social and demographic context including persisting regional and territorial disparities, the impacts of climate change and challenges related to food security and nature protection, insufficient and uneven progress on the Union’s digital transformation, undermining efforts to strengthen the Union’s digital sovereignty as well as significant economic and social consequences. That is coupled with a challenging geopolitical and geoeconomic context that has an impact on the Union’s defence, security (including economic security) and migration policies. Effectively addressing these challenges requires a more focused, simple and impactful Union budget, to ensure the Union added value and clear alignment between Union financial support and Union policy priorities across all policy areas and management modes and to continue efforts to simplify rules on Union financial support. Particular attention should be paid to social inclusion, poverty eradication, quality employment, skills developments, and to address demographic decline, labour shortages and regional depopulation, which pose significant challenges to the Union’s economic, social and territorial cohesion.

Amendment 6

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 8

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(8) This Regulation should set out rules on the tasks, priority objectives, and organisation of the Fund. In order to further develop a coordinated and harmonised implementation of Union support implemented under shared management, namely the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), of the European Social Fund (ESF), and the Cohesion Fund, measures financed under shared management in the common agriculture and fisheries policies, and support under Title V of Part III of the TFEU, horizontal rules based on Article 322 TFEU should also be established. Sector specific regulations may set out specific conditions to complement this Regulation. Those conditions should not be in contradiction with this Regulation. In case of doubt, this Regulation shall prevail.(8) This Regulation should set out rules on the tasks, priority objectives, and organisation of the Fund. In order to further develop a coordinated and harmonised implementation of Union support implemented under shared management, namely the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), and the Cohesion Fund, measures financed under shared management in the common agriculture and fisheries policies, and support under Title V of Part III of the TFEU, horizontal rules based on Article 322 TFEU should also be established. Sector specific regulations will complement this Regulation through well established and clearly set out specific goals and conditions, which should not contradict the provisions set out in this Regulation.

Amendment 7

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 9

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(9) The Union budget, implemented together with the Member States, should, in particular, provide for a strengthened, modernised cohesion and inclusive growth policy contributing to reduce regional disparities across the Union, promoting the sustainable development and competitiveness of the Union, its technological sovereignty, its digital transformation, and its security. This policy should be elaborated in partnership with national, regional and local authorities; and should step up on climate and water resilience and preparedness with an overarching objective for Union action to prepare for growing climate risks. The Union budget should continue to support a CAP that is simpler and targeted that has the right balance between incentives, investment and regulation and ensures that farmers have a fair and sufficient income, attractive for young farmers. The Union budget should ensure the predictability necessary for a common policy that provides income support.(9) The Union budget, implemented together with the Member States, should, in particular, provide for a strengthened, modernised cohesion and inclusive growth policy contributing to reduce regional disparities across the Union, promoting the sustainable development and competitiveness of the Union, its technological sovereignty, its digital transformation, and its security. This policy should be managed and implemented in line with a comprehensive partnership with national, regional and local authorities as well as social partners and other stakeholders; and should step up on climate and water resilience and preparedness with an overarching objective for Union action to prepare for growing climate risks.

Amendment 8

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 9 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(9a) The Union budget should continue to support a CAP which is simpler and targeted, which has the right balance between incentives, investment and regulation and which ensures that farmers have a fair and sufficient income, attractive for young farmers. The Union budget should ensure the predictability necessary for a common policy that provides income support.

Amendment 9

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 10

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(10) It is in this context key to continue efforts to simplify rules and improve current delivery models to maximise the effectiveness and responsiveness of Union spending and bring about simplification to Member States, regional and local authorities and beneficiaries. The funds allocated to Member States should therefore incorporate a stronger focus on results, simplification and maximising public investment with high Union added value, including using public procurement strategically to promote key policy objectives, and leveraging private capital. Accordingly, the Union should set the objectives and types of interventions while greater responsibility and accountability for meeting those objectives should be borne by the Member States. As a consequence, there is a need to ensure greater subsidiarity and flexibility in order to take better account of the local and regional conditions and needs.(10) It is in this context key to continue efforts to simplify rules and improve current delivery models to maximise the effectiveness and responsiveness of Union spending and bring about faster transition of funds to Member States, regional and local authorities and beneficiaries. The funds allocated to Member States should therefore incorporate a stronger focus on results, simplification and maximising public investment with high Union added value, including using public procurement strategically to promote key policy objectives, and leveraging private capital. Accordingly, the Union should set the objectives and types of interventions while greater responsibility and accountability for meeting those objectives should be borne by the Member States. As a consequence, there is a need to ensure greater subsidiarity and flexibility in order to take better account of the local and regional conditions and needs.

Amendment 10

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 13

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(13) With the aim of ensuring a more efficient use of Union funding, the Fund should address the outlined challenges in a holistic, coordinated and consistent manner, reflecting the different national and regional needs of each Member State while ensuring support for all relevant Union priorities and value for money. Furthermore, the Fund should contribute to a streamlined and well-coordinated framework while relying on a strong multi-level governance and partnership. It should provide a basis to ensure a more efficient and flexible allocation of funding across different policy areas while allowing Member States to address new policy priorities and reallocate resources to respond to unforeseen challenges and crises.(13) With the aim of ensuring a more efficient use of Union funding, the Fund should address the outlined challenges in a holistic, coordinated and consistent manner, reflecting the different national and regional needs of each Member State while ensuring support for all relevant Union priorities and value for money. Furthermore, the Fund should contribute to a streamlined and well-coordinated framework while relying on a strong multi-level governance and partnership, including social partners. It should provide a basis to ensure a more efficient and flexible allocation of funding across different policy areas while allowing Member States to address new policy priorities and reallocate resources to respond to unforeseen challenges and crises.

Amendment 11

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 15

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(15) The Union’s sustainable prosperity should be supported by strengthening its industrial base and fostering the attractiveness of territories to support the right to stay, including via strategies for the integrated development of urban, rural and coastal areas and fostering European territorial cooperation. The measures should focus on the completion of the trans-European transport and energy networks, which are key for a genuine Energy Union, and decarbonisation projects, including promoting renewable energy generation, energy efficiency, storage and developing smart energy systems, domestic transmission and distribution grids, while enabling regions, sectors and people to address the impacts of the transition towards the Union’s climate target. The trans-European transport networks have to be completed by 2030 for the core network and by 2040 for the extended core network to support the green and digital transition of transport and mobility. They should also aim to promote innovative economic transformation, help achieve the 3% of GDP Research and Development target and the development and use of advanced technologies , the uptake of advanced digital solutions, including AI, secure and trusted ICT connectivity, while bridging the innovation and digital divides. The measures should help implement the recommendations issues under Article 6 of the Digital Decade Policy Programme 2030 and support digital transformation. They should also contribute to strengthening the resilience of the healthcare systems and long-term care services, support affordable housing. Measures should also support a competitive and sustainable tourism sector in the EU, aiming at balanced tourism, managing tourist flows and fostering Europe as the first tourist destination in the world.(15) The Union’s sustainable prosperity should be supported by strengthening its industrial base and fostering the attractiveness of territories to support the right to stay, including via strategies for the integrated development of urban, rural and coastal areas and fostering European territorial cooperation. The measures should focus on the completion of the trans-European transport and energy networks, which are key for a genuine Energy Union, and decarbonisation projects, including promoting renewable energy generation, energy efficiency, storage and developing smart energy systems, domestic transmission and distribution grids, while enabling regions, sectors and people to address the impacts of the transition towards the Union’s climate target. The trans-European transport networks have to be completed by 2030 for the core network and by 2040 for the extended core network to support the green and digital transition of transport and mobility. They should also aim to promote innovative economic transformation, help achieve the 3% of GDP Research and Development target and the development and use of advanced technologies , the uptake of advanced digital solutions, including ethical and human-centric AI, secure and trusted ICT connectivity, while bridging the innovation and digital divides. The measures should help implement the recommendations issues under Article 6 of the Digital Decade Policy Programme 2030 and support digital transformation. They should also contribute to strengthening the resilience of the healthcare systems and long-term care services by supporting affordable, sustainable and high-quality services, especially for vulnerable persons, and support affordable housing. Measures should also support a competitive and sustainable tourism sector in the EU, aiming at balanced tourism, managing tourist flows and fostering Europe as the first tourist destination in the world.

Amendment 12

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 16

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(16) In the area of the Union’s defence capabilities and security, measures should reinforce the Union’s defence industrial base and military mobility and strengthen the Unions’ preparedness, threat detection, critical energy and transport infrastructure protection and resilience and crisis response, including by strengthening cybersecurity. This should include measures to develop the dual use TEN-T infrastructure in order to allow for largescale movements of troops and heavy equipment and material at short notice. Measures should also aim to ensure high level of security in the Union, including integration measures that are consistent with the objectives set out in Regulation (EU) [...] concerning Union support for asylum including subsidiary protection, temporary protection, migration and integration, Regulation (EU) […] concerning Union support for European [integrated] border management, including functioning of the Schengen area and for European visa policy, and Regulation (EU) […] Union support for internal security.(16) In the area of the Union’s defence capabilities and security, measures should reinforce the Union’s defence industrial base and military mobility and strengthen the Unions’ preparedness, civil protection, including for groups in vulnerable positions threat detection, critical energy and transport infrastructure protection and resilience and crisis response, including by strengthening cybersecurity, but without diverting and repurposing existing or targeted funds related to social spending. This should include measures to develop the dual use TEN-T infrastructure in order to allow for largescale movements of troops and heavy equipment and material at short notice. Measures should also aim to ensure high level of security in the Union, including integration measures that are consistent with the objectives set out in Regulation (EU) [...] concerning Union support for asylum including subsidiary protection, temporary protection, migration and integration, Regulation (EU) […] concerning Union support for European [integrated] border management, including functioning of the Schengen area and for European visa policy, and Regulation (EU) […] Union support for internal security.

Amendment 13

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 17 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(17a) The Fund should be used to close existing gender gaps by promoting gender-balanced labour market and facilitating access to public and social services as well as support the efforts of Member States to contribute to the eradication of poverty by supporting national schemes including through providing basic material assistance and food support for the most deprived, especially for child poverty. The measures should support all jobseekers, especially young people through the implementation of Youth Guarantee as well as by means of promoting self–employment and the social economy, also investments in children and young people, marginalised and disadvantaged groups and marginalised communities such as persons with disabilities, third country nationals and should ensure equal access to affordable, sustainable and high-quality services that promote person-centred care such as healthcare, in particular family and community-based care services and access to healthcare for people in vulnerable situations. They should also contribute to strengthening the resilience of the healthcare systems and long-term care services, support social and affordable housing. They should also promote the validation of non-formal and informal learning, with a specific focus on acquiring green and digital skills by establishing skills anticipation in close cooperation with industry. Upgrading of skills and acquiring new and different skills should help people, especially young people, seize the opportunities of growing sectors and prepare them for the changing nature of work, while harnessing the opportunities arising from the digital and green transitions and the transformation of the Union industrial ecosystems.

Amendment 14

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 20

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(20) In order to protect, strengthen democracy, rule of law and uphold Union values, support should be dedicated to sustaining and further developing open, rights-based, democratic, equal and inclusive societies as well as to strengthening justice systems, anti-corruption frameworks, media pluralism and effective checks and balances. The measures should also aim to contribute to better governance by enhancing the efficiency of public administration, including judicial authorities, and the institutional capacity of public authorities and stakeholders in Member States, regions and local communities. This should enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of supported measures. To ensure that the social dimension of Europe as set out in the European Pillar of Social Rights is duly put forward and that a sufficient amount of resources is targeting those most in need, Member States should allocate resources to fostering social inclusion. Due to the particular need to support children in poverty Member States should also programme resources to address the measures under the Child Guarantee. In light of persistently high levels of youth unemployment and inactivity in a number of Member States and regions, in particular affecting young people who are neither in employment, nor in education or training, it is necessary that those Member States continue to invest sufficient resources towards measures to promote youth employment, including through the implementation of the Youth Guarantee. Member States should therefore allocate an appropriate amount of resources to this challenge. Member States seriously affected by youth unemployment should allocate resources of the ESF to support youth employability.(20) In order to protect, strengthen democracy, rule of law and uphold Union values, support should be dedicated to sustaining and further developing open, rights-based, democratic, equal and inclusive societies as well as to strengthening justice systems, anti-corruption frameworks, media pluralism and effective checks and balances. The measures should also aim to contribute to better governance by enhancing the efficiency of public administration, including judicial authorities, and the institutional capacity of public authorities and stakeholders in Member States, regions and local communities. This should enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of supported measures. To ensure that the social dimension of Europe as set out in the European Pillar of Social Rights is duly put forward and that a sufficient amount of resources is targeting those most in need, European Social Fund should be well resourced and clearly visible within the National Regional Partnership Plans. Due to the particular need to support children in poverty Member States should also programme resources to address the measures under the Child Guarantee through the European Social Fund including Roma children, third country national children, children in alternative care and precarious family situations, and those living in single-parent households ensuring prevention, early childhood intervention, support to families in need, and access to quality services to children from an early age. In light of persistently high levels of youth unemployment and inactivity in a number of Member States and regions, in particular affecting young people who are neither in employment, nor in education or training, it is necessary that those Member States continue to invest sufficient resources towards measures to promote youth employment, including through the implementation of the Youth Guarantee. Member States should therefore allocate a sufficient amount of resources to this challenge. Member States seriously affected by youth unemployment should allocate resources of the ESF to support youth employability through skills development and facilitation of the transition from education to work as well as adequate capacities of employment services to provide tailor-made and holistic support and better-targeted offers to young people.

Amendment 15

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 23

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(23) As a complement to actions supported by Regulation (EU) […] [Global Europe], the Fund may support actions in or in relation to third countries. Such actions should ensure full coherence with the principles and general objectives of Union external policy, with the Union’s international commitments, and the rights and principles enshrined in the Union acquis.(23) As a complement to actions supported by Regulation (EU) […] [Global Europe], the Fund may support actions in or in relation to third countries. Such actions should ensure full coherence with the principles and general objectives of Union external policy, with the Union’s international commitments, inter alia for the respect for human rights and UN Conventions and the rights and principles enshrined in the Union acquis.

Amendment 16

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 24

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(24) The principle of partnership is a key feature in the implementation of the NRP Plans, building on the multi-level governance approach and ensuring the involvement of regional, local, urban and other public authorities, civil society organisations, economic and social partners. In order to provide continuity in the organisation of partnership, the European code of conduct on partnership for Partnership Agreements and programmes supported by the European Structural and Investment Funds established by the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) No 240/20141 (the ‘European code of conduct on partnership’) should continue to apply to the Plans.(24) The principle of partnership is a key feature in the creation and implementation of the NRP Plans, building on the decentralised, place-based multi-level governance approach and be built around the shared management, involving regional, local, urban and other public authorities, and economic partners, as well as involvement and capacity building of social partners and civil society organisations at all stages. In order to provide continuity in the organisation of partnership, the European code of conduct on partnership for Partnership Agreements and programmes supported by the European Structural and Investment Funds established by the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) No 240/20141 (the ‘European code of conduct on partnership’) should continue to apply to the Plans.
1 Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) No 240/2014 of 7 January 2014 on the European code of conduct on partnership in the framework of the European Structural and Investment Funds (OJ L 74, 14.3.2014, p. 1).1 Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) No 240/2014 of 7 January 2014 on the European code of conduct on partnership in the framework of the European Structural and Investment Funds (OJ L 74, 14.3.2014, p. 1).

Amendment 17

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 25

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(25) The NRP Plans aim to ensure high value for money by making payments from the Commission to Member States conditional upon the achievement of outputs and the fulfilment of conditions agreed, irrespective of the form of reimbursement from Member States to beneficiaries. Linking disbursements with agreed and pre-set milestones, targets and outputs covering the full lifespan of the supported measure will contribute to the regularity of payments to Member States. To facilitate this process, Member States should be able to submit payment applications up to six times a year. To simplify financing and reduce administrative burden for beneficiaries, Member States are encouraged to use the same form of reimbursement applied for payments from the Commission to Member State or standard scales of unit costs, lump sums or flat rates.(25) The NRP Plans aim to ensure high value for money by making payments from the Commission to Member States conditional upon the achievement of outputs and the fulfilment of conditions agreed, but also taking into account social, territorial and environmental results achieved, irrespective of the form of reimbursement from Member States to beneficiaries. Linking disbursements with agreed and pre-set milestones, targets and outputs covering the full lifespan of the supported measure will contribute to the regularity of payments to Member States. To facilitate this process, Member States should be able to submit payment applications up to six times a year. To simplify financing and reduce administrative burden for beneficiaries, Member States are encouraged to use the same form of reimbursement applied for payments from the Commission to Member State or standard scales of unit costs, lump sums or flat rates.

Amendment 18

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 26

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(26) The Fund should be implemented in accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) 202X/XXXX [Performance regulation] 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 rules on information, communication and visibility. The Fund should ensure accessibility, taking into account the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, including the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The Fund should not support actions that contribute to any form of segregation, discrimination or exclusion, including of racialised communities such as Roma, and, when financing infrastructure, should ensure the accessibility for persons with disabilities.(26) The Fund should be implemented in accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) 202X/XXXX [Performance regulation] 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 rules on information, communication and visibility. The Fund should ensure accessibility, taking into account the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, including the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, as well as the European Union Strategy on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities 2021–2030, with a view to promoting the full participation of persons with disabilities in society and the labour market. The Fund should not support actions that contribute to any form of segregation, discrimination or exclusion, including Roma, and, when financing infrastructure, should ensure the accessibility for persons with disabilities. The Fund should fully comply with the provisions, objectives, rights and freedoms enshrined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), as adopted by Council Decision 2010/48/EC1a. Member States should ensure that the measures in NRP Plan fulfil the principle of equality between men and women.
1a Council Decision of 26 November 2009 concerning the conclusion, by the European Community, of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (OJ L 23, 27.1.2010, p. 35, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec/2010/48(1)/oj

Amendment 19

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 27

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(27) This Regulation should include strong safeguards to ensure that the Fund is implemented in a way that ensures respect with the rights, freedoms and principles set out in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union and of the principles of the rule of law as set out in Article 2(a) of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2020/2092 of the European Parliament and of the Council2 . Therefore, as part of the validation process of their NRP Plans, Member States should provide assurance on the fulfilment of these two horizontal conditions, with an identification of potential deficiencies and remedial actions based, in particular, on the country-specific challenges identified in the context of the Rule of Law Report and European Semester, as well as infringement proceedings and judgments of the Court of Justice of the European Union. All Member States should be required to review their NRP Plans halfway through implementation, as part of the mid-term review, to address any new deficiencies identified, in particular, in the context of the latest Rule of Law Report. At any time during the implementation and following exchanges with the Member State concerned, there should be a possibility to block part or all of the payments made to a Member State if one or more of the Rule of Law and Charter horizontal conditions is not fulfilled. With due regard to the principle of proportionality, the determination of the non-fulfilment and identification of the specific measures concerned should take into account the actual or potential impact of the non-fulfilment on the sound financial management of the Union budget or on the financial interests of the Unions as well as the nature, duration, gravity and scope of the breach.(27) This Regulation should include strong safeguards to ensure that the Fund is implemented in a way that ensures respect for social inclusion, fundamental rights, rights of persons with disabilities, gender equality and non-discrimination. It should respect the rights, freedoms and principles set out in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union and of the principles of the rule of law as set out in Article 2(a) of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2020/2092 of the European Parliament and of the Council2 and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and gender equality. Therefore, as part of the validation process of their NRP Plans, Member States should provide assurance on the fulfilment of these four horizontal conditions, with an identification of potential deficiencies and remedial actions based, in particular, on the country-specific challenges identified in the context of the Rule of Law Report and European Semester, as well as infringement proceedings and judgments of the Court of Justice of the European Union. Member States should all ensure that stakeholders can meaningfully contribute and give feedback at all stages of the NRP Plans, in line with the principle of partnership and multi-level governance. All Member States should be required to review their NRP Plans halfway through implementation, as part of the mid-term review, to address any new deficiencies identified, in particular, in the context of the latest Rule of Law Report. At any time during the implementation and following exchanges with the Member State concerned, there should be a possibility to block part or all of the payments made to a Member State if one or more of the Rule of Law and Charter horizontal conditions is not fulfilled. The Commission should inform the European Parliament in case of detected breach or non-fulfilment of horizontal conditions, as well as in cases of any decision newly proposed, adopted, amended or repealed. With due regard to the principle of proportionality, the determination of the non-fulfilment and identification of the specific measures concerned should take into account the actual or potential impact of the non-fulfilment on the sound financial management of the Union budget or on the financial interests of the Unions as well as the nature, duration, gravity and scope of the breach.
2 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)2 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)

Amendment 20

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 29

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(29) Each Member State should submit to the Commission a NRP Plan, as a rule, by 31 January 2028 so that it can be given careful and timely consideration. To ensure fast implementation of the Fund, Member States should be able to submit a draft NRP Plan from June 2027. Member States should design and implement the NRP Plans in partnership with local and regional authorities, economic, social and rural partners and civil society organisations and other relevant stakeholders in accordance with the national legal framework and the rules set out in this Regulation. The NRP Plans should be designed in close cooperation with the Commission, prepared in accordance with the template provided and made publicly available following their adoption by the Council on the basis of the Commission’s assessment and proposal for a Council implementing decision. In line with current arrangements, Member States will have the possibility to include regional and territorial chapters in their NRP Plan and should be required to ensure that regional managing authorities receive regular payments, based on the progress of their respective measures, and an amount at least equivalent to their Union contribution by the end of the period, subject to potential corrections resulting from the implementation of their respective chapter(s). To ensure effective governance of the NRP Plan, Member States should set up monitoring committees for the chapters and a coordinating committee at the level of the NRP Plan.(29) Each Member State should submit to the Commission a NRP Plan, as a rule, by 31 January 2028 so that it can be given careful and timely consideration. To ensure fast implementation of the Fund, Member States should be able to submit a draft NRP Plan. Member States should design and implement the NRP Plans in partnership with local and regional authorities, economic, social and rural partners and civil society organisations and other relevant stakeholders in accordance with the national legal framework and the rules set out in this Regulation. The NRP Plans should be designed in close cooperation with the Commission, prepared in accordance with the template provided and made publicly available following their entry into force on the basis of the Commission’s assessment and proposal for a Council implementing decision. The European Parliament will give its consent to the plans, in line with Article 22 (2) point (a) of this Regulation, to include regional and territorial chapters in their NRP Plan and will ensure that regional managing authorities receive regular payments, based on the progress of their respective measures, and an amount at least equivalent to their Union contribution by the end of the period, subject to potential corrections resulting from the implementation of their respective chapter(s). To ensure effective governance of the NRP Plan, Member States should set up monitoring committees for the chapters and a coordinating committee at the level of the NRP Plan and should ensure the meaningful involvement of all partners.

Amendment 21

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 30

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(30) In order to ensure the national ownership, Member States wishing to receive support should submit to the Commission NRP Plans that are duly reasoned and substantiated. The NRP Plans should detail how it represents a comprehensive contribution to all objectives of the Fund, taking into account the specific national, regional and territorial challenges of the Member State concerned. It should also include an explanation of how it contributes to effectively addressing the relevant country-specific challenges identified, inter alia, in the context of the European Semester and other relevant documents officially adopted by the Commission related to the objectives supported by the Fund, and how it contributes to the completion of the internal market, notably by including reforms, investments and other interventions with a cross-border, transnational or multi-country dimension. To strengthen Union competitiveness in strategically important sectors while ensuring that the level playing field is not compromised, the NRP Plans should include cross-border and multi-country projects, in particular Important Projects of Common European Interest (IPCEIs) focusing on either research, development, innovation or first industrial deployment or on the construction of important infrastructure open for third party use, taking into account, in particular, the analyses provided in the latest Annual Single Market and Competitiveness Report. Member States should concentrate resources under their Plans on reducing economic social and territorial disparities, in particular in less developed regions. They should also support generational renewal and social measures and thriving fisheries and aquaculture production.(30) In order to ensure the national ownership, Member States wishing to receive support should submit to the Commission NRP Plans that are duly reasoned and substantiated. The NRP Plans should detail how it represents a comprehensive contribution to all objectives of the Fund, taking into account the specific national, regional and territorial challenges of the Member State concerned. It should also include an explanation of how it contributes to effectively addressing the relevant country-specific challenges identified, inter alia, in the context of the European Semester, the Social Convergence Framework, the European Pillar of Social Rights and other relevant documents officially adopted by the Commission related to the objectives supported by the Fund, and how it contributes to the completion of the internal market, notably by including reforms, investments and other interventions with a cross-border, transnational or multi-country dimension. With the goal of achieving the appropriate goals set in the NRP Plans and Interreg Plan through possible exchange of good practices between Member States, the Fund should be made available for supporting technical assistance for its implementation. To strengthen Union competitiveness in strategically important sectors while ensuring that the level playing field is not compromised, the NRP Plans should include cross-border and multi-country projects, in particular Important Projects of Common European Interest (IPCEIs) focusing on either research, development, innovation or first industrial deployment or on the construction of important infrastructure open for third party use, taking into account, in particular, the analyses provided in the latest Annual Single Market and Competitiveness Report. Member States should concentrate resources under their Plans on reducing economic social and territorial disparities, in particular in less developed regions and for people in vulnerable situations. They should also support generational renewal and social and employment measures in line with the European Pillar of Social Rights.

Amendment 22

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 31

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(31) The Plan should ensure complementarity and synergies between different measures supporting different policy areas and targeting different groups of beneficiaries. This is particularly important to offer a comprehensive policy response to develop thriving rural and coastal areas and ensure vibrant agricultural and fisheries sectors. Member States are in particular encouraged to promote such synergies in the design of the measures and chapters and in the application of the cofinancing rates. For measures supporting basic services and infrastructure in rural and coastal areas as well as rural and coastal businesses, Member States should developed an integrated planning to ensure that rural and coastal communities have access to finance through appropriate mechanisms, including policy actions to specific; mechanisms and governance structures to coordinate the programming and implementation of EU, national, regional and local policies, the programming of locally and regionally integrated funding approaches, taking into account the specific context and capacities of the target beneficiaries, the creation of capacity building targeting both the administrations and the beneficiaries. The NRP Plan should set out the detailed set of measures and arrangements for its monitoring and implementation, including establishing NRP Plan authorities, monitoring and coordinating committee, the estimated costs of those measures and the national contribution and measures to enhance the quality of governance and reinforce the administrative capacity of public administrations. Close cooperation between the Commission, the Member States and their regions should be sought and achieved throughout the process; policy learning and experimentation should be encouraged.(31) The Plan should ensure complementarity and synergies between different measures supporting different policy areas and targeting different groups of beneficiaries, in particular, those in vulnerable situations and at risk of or experiencing poverty. This is particularly important to offer a comprehensive policy response to develop thriving rural and coastal areas and ensure quality jobs, integration in the labour market, a fair economy and a transition for key sectors, including vibrant agricultural and fisheries sectors. Member States are in particular encouraged to promote such synergies in the design of the measures and chapters and in the application of the cofinancing rates. Due to the importance of access to healthcare, the NRP synergies should ensure and complement the European Competitiveness Fund ('ECF’) and its objectives under Article 3 of this Regulation for support to health. To support basic services and infrastructure in rural and coastal areas as well as rural and coastal businesses, Member States should develop an integrated planning to ensure that rural and coastal communities have access to finance through appropriate mechanisms, including policy actions to specific mechanisms and governance structures to coordinate the programming and implementation of EU, national, regional and local policies, the programming of locally and regionally integrated funding approaches, taking into account the specific context and capacities of the target beneficiaries, the creation of capacity building targeting both the administrations and the beneficiaries. In duly justified cases, such as crisis situations or other imperative grounds of public interest, the Commission should be able to propose to the Council to adopt an implementing decision approving a NRP Plan in time to allow the necessary actions under this Regulation. This decision should also identify the deficiencies which need to be addressed and the corresponding measures impacted by such deficiencies, for which no payments should be made until the situation has been remedied. Such crisis situations may be related to, inter alia, environmental crises, pandemics or widespread economic crises impacting the livelihoods of citizens. The NRP Plan should set out the detailed set of measures and arrangements for its monitoring and implementation, including establishing NRP Plan authorities, monitoring and coordinating committee, the estimated costs of those measures and the national contribution and measures to enhance the quality of governance and reinforce the administrative capacity of public administrations. Close cooperation between the Commission, the Member States and their regions should be sought and achieved throughout the process; policy learning and experimentation should be encouraged. Each Member State should carry out a mid-term review of its NRP Plan. That review should provide a fully-fledged proposed amendment of the NRP Plan based on the progress in implementing measures, the main results of relevant evaluations and a review of the estimated total costs of the measures covered by the NRP Plan, while also providing the opportunity to take into account new challenges as well as the occurrence of any crisis. For the purposes of the mid-term review, the socioeconomic situation of the Member State or region concerned, including any major negative financial, economic or social development should be also taken into account. The amended NRP Plan submitted by the Member State following the mid-term review should include a proposal for the programming of the flexibility amount with revised or new measures together with their estimated costs and corresponding milestones and targets. For Member States which are currently subject to a second-stage Social Convergence Framework Analysis as a part of the Joint Employment Report, the Commission could decide to require an increased percentage of the remaining funds to be used on social spending. Member States should have the possibility to make a reasoned request to amend the NRP Plan within the period of implementation of the Fund. The Commission should assess the compliance of the amended NRP Plan with this Regulation in a manner that is proportionate to the changes proposed. In order to avoid excessive administrative burden, it should be possible for Member States to make minor adjustments to or correct clerical errors in the NRP Plans, by a simple notification of those changes to the Commission, provided that such amendments comply with the requirements of the NRP Plan, including the percentage-based thematic divisions of the overall Plans.

Amendment 23

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 40

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(40) In case of crises as a result of natural disasters and to ensure availability of resources throughout the duration of the Fund, Union support should be complementary to the efforts of the Member States concerned and be used to cover a share of the measures implemented to deal with the damage caused by a crisis. To finance these interventions and simplify procedures, a part of the natural envelope of each Member State should constitute the flexibility amount (“crisis and mid-term review measures”). This will ensure sufficient financial resources for Member States to react to crises until the end of the implementation of the NRP Plans. The estimation of the type and amount of support to be provided to the Member State concerned should follow a multi-step approach whereby the Member State should first proceed to amending its NRP Plan before requesting to programme a part of its unallocated flexibility amount and, where the flexibility amount requested and available is not sufficient to cover the needs, request additional support from the Union actions. It should be possible for the Commission to use the budget cushion as a last resort option to provide support should other resources under the Facility prove insufficient to cover the needs.(40) In case of crises as a result of natural disasters or major restructuring events with a significant impact on local and regional economy and to ensure availability of resources throughout the duration of the Fund, Union support should be complementary to the efforts of the Member States concerned and be used to cover a share of the measures implemented to deal with the damage caused by a crisis. To finance these interventions and simplify procedures, a part of the natural envelope of each Member State should constitute the flexibility amount (“crisis and mid-term review measures”), without undermining the general and specific objectives of the Fund. This will ensure sufficient financial resources for Member States to react to crises until the end of the implementation of the NRP Plans. The estimation of the type and amount of support to be provided to the Member State concerned should follow a multi-step approach whereby the Member State should first proceed to amending its NRP Plan, without compromising measures that targeted the most vulnerable, before requesting to programme a part of its unallocated flexibility amount and, where the flexibility amount requested and available is not sufficient to cover the needs, request additional support from the Union actions. It should be possible for the Commission to use the budget cushion as a last resort option to provide support should other resources under the Facility prove insufficient to cover the needs.

Amendment 24

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 47

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(47) The outermost regions face specific challenges linked to their remoteness, topography and climate as referred to in Article 349 TFEU and also have specific assets, in particular to develop a sustainable blue economy. Therefore, the concerned Member States should include measures to support each outermost region in their NRP plan to provide for their specific needs and challenges such as food security, housing, transport, water and waste management, energy, education and skills, migration, climate change resilience and adaptation, environmental protection, access to healthcare, energy, transport and digital connectivity and economic development, including a sustainable and diversified blue economy.(47) The outermost regions face specific challenges linked to their remoteness, topography and climate as referred to in Article 349 TFEU and also have specific assets, in particular to develop a sustainable blue economy. Therefore, the concerned Member States should include measures to support each outermost region in their NRP plan to provide for their specific needs and challenges such as food security, housing, transport, water and waste management, energy, education and skills, migration, climate change resilience and adaptation, environmental protection, access to healthcare, energy, transport and digital connectivity and economic development, including a sustainable and diversified blue economy. Those measures should be in line with and complementary, but not overlapping, with the specific goals and objectives of the European Social Fund.

Amendment 25

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 50 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(50a) In order to ensure transparency and accountability in the implementation of the Fund, the Commission should transmit to the European Parliament and to the Council, subject to clearance of sensitive or confidential information, or to appropriate confidentiality arrangements if necessary, relevant documents and information simultaneously and on equal terms, such as the NRP Plans, or their amendments, as submitted by the Member States, and the proposals for Council implementing decisions as made public by the Commission.

Amendment 26

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 51 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(51a) The competent committee of the European Parliament might invite on a regular basis the Commission to discuss in a national and regional partnership dialogue matters that concern the implementation of the Fund, such as the NRP Plans of the Member States, the assessment by the Commission, the main findings of the review report, the status of fulfilment of the milestones and targets, procedures related to payment and suspension, and any other relevant information and documentation provided by the Commission in relation to the implementation of the Fund. The Commission should take into account elements arising from the views expressed through the national and regional partnership dialogue, including European Parliament resolutions, if available.

Amendment 27

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 52

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(52) In order to safeguard the financial interests and the budget of the Union, proportionate measures should be established and implemented at the level of Member States and the Commission. The Commission should be able to interrupt payments deadlines, suspend payments and apply financial corrections where the respective conditions are fulfilled. The Commission should respect the principle of proportionality by taking into account the nature, gravity and frequency of irregularities and their financial implications for the budget of the Union. In accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509, Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council(6), and Council Regulations (EC, Euratom) No 2988/95(7), (Euratom, EC) No 2185/96(8) and (EU) 2017/1939(9), the financial interests of the Union are to be protected through proportionate measures, including measures relating to the prevention, detection, correction and investigation of fraud, corruption and conflicts of interests, and, where appropriate, the imposition of administrative penalties. In particular, in accordance with Regulations (Euratom, EC) No 2185/96 and (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013, the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) has the power to carry out administrative investigations, including on-the-spot checks and inspections, with a view to establishing whether there has been fraud, corruption or any other illegal activity affecting the financial interests of the Union. In accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/1939, the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) is competent to investigate and prosecute fraud and other criminal offences affecting the financial interests of the Union as provided for in Directive (EU) 2017/1371 of the European Parliament and of the Council. 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, the EPPO and the Court of Auditors (ECA) and to ensure that any third parties involved in the implementation of Union funds grant equivalent rights. Member States should swiftly report to the Commission irregularities detected, and any follow-up action they have taken with regard to such irregularities and with regard to any OLAF investigations. The competent authorities of the Member States participating in the enhanced cooperation on the establishment of the EPPO pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2017/1939 should also report to the EPPO without undue delay any criminal conduct in respect of which it could exercise its competence, in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/1939.(52) In order to safeguard the financial interests and the budget of the Union, proportionate measures should be established and implemented at the level of Member States and the Commission. The Commission should be able to interrupt payments deadlines, suspend payments and apply financial corrections where the respective conditions are fulfilled, including in cases where a Member State placed in the second-stage Social Convergence Framework Analysis has failed to take effective corrective action. The Commission should respect the principle of proportionality by taking into account the nature, gravity and frequency of irregularities and their financial implications for the budget of the Union. In accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509, Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council(6), and Council Regulations (EC, Euratom) No 2988/95(7), (Euratom, EC) No 2185/96(8) and (EU) 2017/1939(9), the financial interests of the Union are to be protected through proportionate measures, including measures relating to the prevention, detection, correction and investigation of fraud, corruption and conflicts of interests, and, where appropriate, the imposition of administrative penalties. In particular, in accordance with Regulations (Euratom, EC) No 2185/96 and (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013, the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) has the power to carry out administrative investigations, including on-the-spot checks and inspections, with a view to establishing whether there has been fraud, corruption or any other illegal activity affecting the financial interests of the Union. In accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/1939, the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) is competent to investigate and prosecute fraud and other criminal offences affecting the financial interests of the Union as provided for in Directive (EU) 2017/1371 of the European Parliament and of the Council. 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, the EPPO and the Court of Auditors (ECA) and to ensure that any third parties involved in the implementation of Union funds grant equivalent rights. Member States should swiftly report to the Commission irregularities detected, and any follow-up action they have taken with regard to such irregularities and with regard to any OLAF investigations. The competent authorities of the Member States participating in the enhanced cooperation on the establishment of the EPPO pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2017/1939 should also report to the EPPO without undue delay any criminal conduct in respect of which it could exercise its competence, in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/1939.

Amendment 28

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 54

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(54) In accordance with the principle and rules of shared management, Member States and the Commission should be responsible for the management and control of the Plans and give assurance on the legal and regular use of the Union funds. Since Member States have the primary responsibility for such management and control, they should ensure that operations supported by the Fund comply with applicable law, including applicable public procurement and State aid rules..(54) In accordance with the principle and rules of shared management, Member States, their regions and the Commission should be responsible for the management and control of the Plans and give assurance on the legal and regular use of the Union funds. Since Member States and their regions have the primary responsibility for such management and control, they should ensure that operations supported by the Fund comply with applicable law, including applicable public procurement and State aid rules.

Amendment 29

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 55

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(55) Procedures for the selection of operations applied by Member States can be competitive or non-competitive provided that the criteria applied, and procedures used are non-discriminatory, inclusive, accessible when appropriate for persons with disabilities, and transparent, taking into account the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, and that the operations selected maximise the contribution of the Union funding and are in line with the horizontal principles defined in this Regulation.(55) Procedures for the selection of operations applied by Member States can be competitive or non-competitive provided that the criteria applied, and procedures used are non-discriminatory, inclusive, accessible when appropriate for persons with disabilities, and transparent, taking into account the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, and that the operations selected maximise the contribution of the Union funding and are in line with the horizontal principles defined in this Regulation. Member States are required to both plan and assess the fulfilment of these principles. Equal access to the operations should be provided to all beneficiaries, regardless of their size.

Amendment 30

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 56

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(56) With a view to ensuring the principle of sound financial management, Member States should ensure that the amount of the estimated total costs of their NRP Plan remain reasonable and plausible throughout its implementation and request an amendment of their NRP Plan where necessary. The Fund’s delivery model should aim at providing predictability and consistency between payment levels and the individual implementation pace of each measure by assigning ex-ante pay-out values to each milestone and target. Furthermore, a review of the estimated total costs of the reforms and investments and other interventions covered by the NRP Plan should be conducted by the Member State as part of the mid-term review with corresponding adjustments whenever justified. Additionally, when submitting its final annual assurance package for the last financial year, the Member State should confirm that the total payments from the Commission do not exceed the total amount paid by the Member State to the beneficiaries in implementing the Plan, taking into account the national contribution. For the same reasons of sound financial management, the Commission should be allowed to recover amounts previously paid for interim steps of a measure if the final milestone or target of the given measure is not fulfilled and to take action in case of a reversal of a milestone or a target occurring up to five years after the date of the corresponding Commission payment.(56) With a view to ensuring the principle of sound financial management, Member States should ensure that the amount of the estimated total costs of their NRP Plan remain reasonable and plausible throughout its implementation, without undermining objectives of the NRP Plan, and request an amendment of their NRP Plan where necessary. The Fund’s delivery model should aim at providing predictability and consistency between payment levels and the individual implementation pace of each measure by assigning ex-ante pay-out values to each milestone and target. Furthermore, a review of the estimated total costs of the reforms and investments and other interventions covered by the NRP Plan should be conducted by the Member State as part of the mid-term review with corresponding adjustments whenever justified. Additionally, when submitting its final annual assurance package for the last financial year, the Member State should confirm that the total payments from the Commission do not exceed the total amount paid by the Member State to the beneficiaries in implementing the Plan, taking into account the national contribution. For the same reasons of sound financial management, the Commission should be allowed to recover amounts previously paid for interim steps of a measure if the final milestone or target of the given measure is not fulfilled and to take action in case of a reversal of a milestone or a target occurring up to five years after the date of the corresponding Commission payment.

Amendment 31

Proposal for a regulation

Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point a – introductory part

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) tasks, priority objectives, organisation and grouping under the Fund of:(a) tasks, objectives, organisation and grouping under the Fund of:

Amendment 32

Proposal for a regulation

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

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(iiia) instruments for a European Social Fund (ESF);

Amendment 33

Proposal for a regulation

Article 1 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – introductory part

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
The Regulations listed below may set out specific conditions to complement this Regulation which shall not be in contradiction with this Regulation:The Regulations listed below shall set out specific conditions which shall not contradict the provisions set out in this Regulation:

Amendment 34

Proposal for a regulation

Article 1 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
In case of doubt about the application between this Regulation and the policy-specific regulations referred to in the first subparagraph, this Regulation shall prevail.deleted

Amendment 35

Proposal for a regulation

Article 2 – paragraph 1 – introductory part

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. With the overall aim of promoting economic, social and territorial cohesion, the sustainable development and competitiveness of the Union, its security and its preparedness, the Fund shall support the following general objectives:1. With the overall aim of promoting economic, social and territorial cohesion, the sustainable development and competitiveness of the Union, its values, its security and its preparedness, the Fund shall support the following general objectives:

Amendment 36

Proposal for a regulation

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

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(aa) to support social and economic cohesion and reduce disparities between people as well as to reduce disparities between different regions;

Amendment 37

Proposal for a regulation

Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) to support quality employment, education and skills and social inclusion in accordance with Part Three, Title XI and Title XVIII of Part Three of the TFEU (‘European Social Fund’) and to contribute to a socially fair transition towards climate neutrality in accordance with Article 91(1), point (d), Article 192(1) and Article 194(2) TFEU;(b) to support quality employment, education and skills, social inclusion, social protection and cohesive societies aiming to eradicating poverty and delivering on the principles set out in the European Pillar of Social Rights as well as to contribute to a socially fair transition towards climate neutrality in accordance with Article 91(1), point (d), Article 192(1) and Article 194(2) TFEU;

Amendment 38

Proposal for a regulation

Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point e

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(e) to protect and strengthen democracy in the Union and uphold Union values in accordance with Article 2 TEU.(e) to protect and strengthen democracy in the Union and uphold Union values, including gender equality and respect for human rights, in accordance with Article 2 TEU.

Amendment 39

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point a – point vii

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(vii) supporting social and affordable housing;(vii) supporting social infrastructure and decent, sustainable and affordable housing, including social housing for disadvantaged groups where this is not covered by the ESF;

Amendment 40

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point c – point i

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(i) supporting employment, equal access to the labour market, fair and quality working conditions and labour mobility;(i) supporting employment, equal access to the labour market, fair and quality working conditions and activation measures for all jobseekers and labour mobility, in a manner fully consistent with the objectives set out in Article [xx] of Regulation XX [establishing the European Social Fund as part of the Fund set out in Regulation (EU) […] [NRP] and establishing conditions for the implementation of the Union support to quality employment, skills and social inclusion for the period from 2028 to 2034];

Amendment 41

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point c – point ii

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(ii) enhancing labour supply and improving education and lifelong acquisition of skills, in particular by promoting upskilling and reskilling;(ii) enhancing labour supply and improving education and lifelong acquisition of skills, in particular by promoting upskilling and reskilling, in a manner fully consistent with the objectives set out in Article [xx] of Regulation XX [establishing the European Social Fund as part of the Fund set out in Regulation (EU) […] [NRP] and establishing conditions for the implementation of the Union support to quality employment, skills and social inclusion for the period from 2028 to 2034];

Amendment 42

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point c – point ii a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(iia) supporting better anticipation of change and new skills requirements based on labour market needs, facilitating career transitions and promoting professional mobility with particular regard to workers impacted by the twin transition;

Amendment 43

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point c – point ii b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(iib) improving the quality, inclusiveness, effectiveness and labour market relevance of education and training systems including through validation of non-formal and informal learning, to support acquisition of key competences including entrepreneurial, green and digital skills, and by promoting quality vocational education and training;

Amendment 44

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point c – point iii

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(iii) promoting equal opportunities for all, supporting strong social safety nets, fostering social inclusion and fighting poverty and homelessness, and supporting investment in social infrastructure;(iii) promoting equal opportunities for all, supporting strong social safety nets, fostering social inclusion and fighting poverty and homelessness, and supporting investment in social infrastructure, as well as promoting inclusion and equal treatment of persons with disabilities, in a manner fully consistent with the objectives set out in Article [xx] of Regulation XX [establishing the European Social Fund as part of the Fund set out in Regulation (EU) […] [NRP] and establishing conditions for the implementation of the Union support to quality employment, skills and social inclusion for the period from 2028 to 2034];

Amendment 45

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point c – point iii a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(iiia) supporting a just transition which entails comprehensive measures in social and employment policy, including support for reskilling and upskilling through a cost-free right to training during working time, strong social protection, workers participation ensuring that all territories and everyone can contribute to and benefit from the green transition;

Amendment 46

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point c – point iv

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(iv) facilitating access to services and associated infrastructure, including modernization, digitalization and strengthening the quality and resilience of healthcare systems, child and long-term care services;(iv) facilitating access to services and associated infrastructure, including modernization, digitalization and strengthening the quality and resilience of healthcare systems, child and long-term care services, ensuring a human-centered implementation of digitalisation, and ensuring worker information, consultation and participation rights in significant technological changes at the workplace and enhancing accessibility for persons with disabilities, in a manner fully consistent with the objectives set out in Article [xx] of Regulation XX [establishing the European Social Fund as part of the Fund set out in Regulation (EU) […] [NRP] and establishing conditions for the implementation of the Union support to quality employment, skills and social inclusion for the period from 2028 to 2034];

Amendment 47

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point c – point iv a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(iva) promoting the socio-economic integration of marginalised communities, such as people with disabilities and Roma people;

Amendment 48

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point c – point v

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(v) addressing the challenges of demographic change across the EU, which include labour shortages and disparities between generations and regions;(v) supporting a holistic and integrated approach to address depopulation and other demographic challenges, which include labour shortages and disparities between generations and regions;

Amendment 49

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point c – point vi a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(via) supporting measures for redundant workers in the areas not covered by the Regulation XX [establishing the European Social Fund as part of the Fund set out in Regulation (EU) […] [NRP] and establishing conditions for the implementation of the Union support to quality employment, skills and social inclusion for the period from 2028 to 2034];

Amendment 50

Proposal for a regulation

Article 6 – paragraph 1 – introductory part

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. For the NRP Plan and each chapter, and the Interreg Plan chapter as referred to in Chapter II of Regulation XX [Regional development, Interreg Plan], each Member State shall organise and implement a comprehensive partnership in accordance with its institutional and legal framework and taking into account the specificities of the chapters concerned. That partnership shall include a balanced representation of the following partners:1. For the NRP Plan and each chapter, and the Interreg Plan chapter as referred to in Chapter II of Regulation XX [Regional development, Interreg Plan], each Member State shall organise and implement a comprehensive and meaningful partnership in accordance with its institutional and legal framework and taking into account the specificities of the chapters concerned. That partnership shall include a balanced representation of the following partners:

Amendment 51

Proposal for a regulation

Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) economic and social partners, including farmers, fishers and their organisations;(b) economic and social partners, including sectoral social partners;

Amendment 52

Proposal for a regulation

Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point c

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(c) relevant bodies representing civil society, such as environmental partners, non-governmental organisations, youth organisations, and bodies responsible for promoting social inclusion, fundamental rights, rights of persons with disabilities, gender equality and non-discrimination, national human rights institutions and organisations;(c) relevant bodies representing civil society, such as environmental partners, non-governmental organisations, youth organisations, social economy actors, equality bodies and bodies responsible for promoting social inclusion, poverty eradication, fundamental rights, rights of persons with disabilities, gender equality and non-discrimination, children's rights, national human rights institutions and organisations representing groups in vulnerable situations such as third country nationals, Roma and homeless people;

Amendment 53

Proposal for a regulation

Article 6 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2. The partnership established in accordance with paragraph 1 shall operate in accordance with the multi-level governance principle and a bottom-up approach. The Member State shall involve partners referred to in each subparagraph of paragraph 1 in the preparation of the Plan and throughout the preparation, implementation and evaluation of chapters, including through participation in monitoring committees in accordance with Article 55.2. The partnership established in accordance with paragraph 1 shall operate in full respect of the multi-level governance principle and a bottom-up approach. The Member State shall ensure the meaningful participation and continuous involvement of partners referred to in each subparagraph of paragraph 1 in the preparation of the Plan and throughout the preparation, implementation, modification, monitoring and evaluation of chapters, including through participation in monitoring committees in accordance with Article 55.
In order to guarantee the effectiveness of partnership, Member States shall allocate appropriate funds to technical assistance and support to capacity building of social partners and civil society organisations.

Amendment 54

Proposal for a regulation

Article 6 – paragraph 3 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
3a. Each NRP Plan shall include a concise description of the organisation and implementation of the partnership for the Plan. That description shall indicate the types of partners involved, the stages at which they were consulted, how the consultation shaped the outcomes and the main results of the consultation on both reforms and investments.

Amendment 55

Proposal for a regulation

Article 6 – paragraph 5

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
5. Member States may derogate from the requirements on partnership and multi-level governance for the purposes of the Union support established by Regulation (EU) 202X/XX [border management] and Regulation (EU) 202X/XX [internal security] if duly reasoned and substantiated by the Member State in its Plan. For the purposes of the Union support for asylum, migration and integration established by Regulation (EU) 202X/XX [migration, asylum and integration], partnerships shall include regional, local, urban and other public authorities or associations representing such authorities, civil society organisations, such as refugee organisations and migrant-led organisations, as well as national human rights institutions and equality bodies, and, where appropriate, international organisations and economic and social partners.5. For the purposes of the Union support for asylum, migration and integration established by Regulation (EU) 202X/XX [migration, asylum and integration], partnerships shall include regional, local, urban and other public authorities or associations representing such authorities, civil society organisations, such as refugee organisations and migrant-led organisations, as well as national human rights institutions and equality bodies, and, where appropriate, international organisations and economic and social partners.

Amendment 56

Proposal for a regulation

Article 7 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point b a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(ba) the rights, freedoms and principles set out in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC);

Amendment 57

Proposal for a regulation

Article 7 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point b b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(bb) the principles enshrined in the European Pillar of Social Rights;

Amendment 58

Proposal for a regulation

Article 7 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point b c (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(bc) the rights, freedoms and principles set out in the United Nations Convention on the rights of persons with disabilities (UNCRPD) in accordance with Council Decision 2010/48/EC;

Amendment 59

Proposal for a regulation

Article 7 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point b d (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(bd) gender equality.

Amendment 60

Proposal for a regulation

Article 7 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2. The Member States and the Commission shall take appropriate steps to prevent any discrimination based on gender, racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation during the preparation, implementation, monitoring, reporting and evaluation of the Plans. In particular, accessibility for persons with disabilities shall be taken into account throughout the preparation and implementation of the Plans.2. The Member States and the Commission shall take appropriate steps to promote gender equality and prevent any discrimination based on gender, racial or ethnic origin, socio-economic status, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation during the preparation, implementation, monitoring, reporting and evaluation of the Plans. In particular, accessibility and the rights of for persons with disabilities shall be taken into account throughout the preparation and implementation of the Plans, in line with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).

Amendment 61

Proposal for a regulation

Article 7 – paragraph 2 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2a. Member States shall seek to reduce unnecessary administrative and regulatory barriers for beneficiaries that hinder investment and project implementation, in particular in sectors relevant for social development, including access to decent and affordable housing.

Amendment 62

Proposal for a regulation

Article 8 – paragraph 7 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
7a. The Commission shall immediately inform the European Parliament of any decision proposed, adopted, amended or repealed pursuant to paragraphs 4 and 6.

Amendment 63

Proposal for a regulation

Article 9 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. Member States shall ensure the respect of the principles of the rule of law as set out in Article 2, point (a), and Article 3 of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2020/2092 throughout implementation of the Fund (the ‘rule of law horizontal condition’). They shall inform the Commission of any modification impacting the fulfilment of that condition.1. Member States shall ensure the respect of the principles of the rule of law as set out in Article 2, point (a), and Article 3 of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2020/2092 throughout implementation of the Fund (the ‘rule of law horizontal condition’). They shall provide an assessment in accordance with Article 22(2), point (p) of this Regulation, and inform the Commission of any modification impacting the fulfilment of that condition.

Amendment 64

Proposal for a regulation

Article 10 – paragraph 2 – point a – point i a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(ia) At least EUR [124 190 000 000 in current prices] as set out in Article 3 of Regulation XX [establishing the European Social Fund as part of the Fund set out in Regulation (EU) […] [NRP] and establishing conditions for the implementation of the Union support to quality employment, skills and social inclusion for the period from 2028 to 2034];

Amendment 65

Proposal for a regulation

Article 10 – paragraph 3

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
3. In addition to the allocation set out in the second paragraph, point (a), the Union financial contribution shall include EUR 50 100 000 000 from the amounts for the Social Climate Fund set out in Article 30d(4), fourth subparagraph, points (c) to (g) of Directive 2003/87/EC to be implemented under the Plans, in accordance with the distribution set out in Annex II to Regulation (EU) 2023/955. This amount shall constitute external assigned revenue within the meaning of Article 21(5) of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509.deleted

Amendment 66

Proposal for a regulation

Article 10 – paragraph 5

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
5. At least 14 % of the financial envelope referred to in paragraph 2 and of the amount referred to in paragraph 4 shall be dedicated to meeting the Union’s social objectives, calculated by using the coefficients referred to in Article 6(1) of Regulation (EU) [Performance Regulation]. The amount set out in paragraph 2, point (a) letter (ii), as well as the external assigned revenue from the Social Climate Fund, shall be excluded from the basis for the calculation of this minimum allocation.5. At least 14 % of the financial envelope referred to in paragraph 2 and of the amount referred to in paragraph 4 shall be dedicated to meeting the Union’s social objectives, calculated by using the coefficients referred to in Article 6(1) of Regulation (EU) [Performance Regulation]. The amount set out in paragraph 2, point (a) letters (ii), and (ia) the financial envelope of ESF shall be excluded from the basis for the calculation of this minimum allocation.

Amendment 67

Proposal for a regulation

Article 10 – paragraph 6 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
6a. The resources of the ESF shall be allocated among Member States on the basis of objective and transparent criteria reflecting the relative scale of employment, social and inclusion challenges, ensuring continuity with the distribution methodology applied during the 2021–2027 programming period. Within each national allocation, resources shall continue to be broken down by category of region—less developed, transition and more developed regions - while ensuring additional support for outermost regions pursuant to Article 349 TFEU and for sparsely populated regions where applicable. The allocation shall take into account, in particular, population, the inverse of GDP per capita in purchasing power standards, levels of unemployment and long term unemployment, levels of youth unemployment and the share of young people not in employment, education or training, the proportion of adults with low educational attainment, the number of persons at risk of poverty or social exclusion and related indicators of social deprivation, as well as specific pressures linked to migration and, where relevant, territorial vulnerabilities linked to climate exposure, industrial transition or demographic decline. This paragraph is without prejudice to the minimum thematic shares and concentration requirements laid down in Regulation XX [establishing the European Social Fund as part of the Fund set out in Regulation (EU) […] [NRP] and establishing conditions for the implementation of the Union support to quality employment, skills and social inclusion for the period from 2028 to 2034.

Amendment 68

Proposal for a regulation

Article 12 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. At the initiative of the Commission, the Fund may support technical and administrative assistance for the implementation of the Plan and the Interreg Plan, such as preparatory, monitoring, control, audit and evaluation activities, corporate information technology systems and platforms, information and communication activities, including through the set-up of EU-wide networks of Member States’ authorities and other relevant stakeholders, 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 Fund, and where appropriate with third countries.1. At the initiative of the Commission, the Fund shall support technical and administrative assistance for the implementation of the Plan and the Interreg Plan, such as preparatory, monitoring, control, audit and evaluation activities, corporate information technology systems and platforms, information and communication activities, including through the set-up of EU-wide networks of Member States’ authorities and other relevant stakeholders, 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 Fund, and where appropriate with third countries. Where relevant, civil society, social partners, and other relevant stakeholders may be included in the technical assistance programs, ensuring transparency and more effective implementation.

Amendment 69

Proposal for a regulation

Article 12 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2. The Fund shall also support all other technical and administrative assistance required to implement and manage the Common Agricultural Policy and Common Fisheries Policy, including fisheries control and enforcement measures, market controls, collection or purchase of data, including satellite data, geo-spatial data and meteorological data, monitoring of resources, development and maintenance of electronic certification of organic products and related corporate information technology systems, development, registration and protection of the indications, abbreviations and symbols referring to the Union quality schemes and contributions under international agreements.2. The Fund shall also support all other technical and administrative assistance required to implement and manage the ESF, the Common Agricultural Policy and Common Fisheries Policy, including fisheries control and enforcement measures, market controls, collection or purchase of data, including satellite data, geo-spatial data and meteorological data, monitoring of resources, development and maintenance of electronic certification of organic products and related corporate information technology systems, development, registration and protection of the indications, abbreviations and symbols referring to the Union quality schemes and contributions under international agreements.

Amendment 70

Proposal for a regulation

Article 13 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. At the initiative of a Member State, the Fund may support actions, which may concern previous and subsequent programming periods, necessary for the effective implementation of the Fund, including to provide financing for carrying out, amongst other, functions such as preparation, training, management, monitoring, evaluation, information, visibility and communication.1. At the initiative of a Member State, the Fund shall support actions, which may concern previous and subsequent programming periods, necessary for the effective implementation of the Fund, including to provide financing for carrying out, amongst other, functions such as preparation, training, management, monitoring, evaluation, information, visibility and communication.

Amendment 71

Proposal for a regulation

Article 13 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2. Technical assistance to each NRP Plan and each Interreg Plan chapter shall be established as a flat rate of up to 3% and 8% respectively, applied to the amount included in each payment application pursuant to Article 65 [payment applications]. The flat rate shall be 10% for the Interreg Plan chapters supporting outermost cooperation and cooperation on external borders.2. Technical assistance to each NRP Plan and each Interreg Plan chapter shall be established as a flat rate of up to 4% and 8% respectively, applied to the amount included in each payment application pursuant to Article 65 [payment applications]. The flat rate shall be 10% for the Interreg Plan chapters supporting outermost cooperation and cooperation on external borders.

Amendment 72

Proposal for a regulation

Article 16 – paragraph 6

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
6. Following the decommitment procedure set in this Article, the Commission shall make a proposal for a new Council implementing decision approving the NRP Plan in accordance with Article 23 reflecting the amounts concerned by the decommitment.6. Following the decommitment procedure set in this Article, the Commission shall make a proposal for a new delegated act approving the NRP Plan in accordance with Article 23 reflecting the amounts concerned by the decommitment.

Amendment 73

Proposal for a regulation

Article 17 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. Subject to the adoption by the Council of the implementing decision referred to in Article 23 and to the availability of funds, the Commission shall make a pre-financing payment. The amount of pre-financing shall be 10% of the Union financial allocation referred to in Article 14 [budgetary commitments] and shall be paid in tranches over three consecutive years, as follows: 4% in 2028, 3% in 2029, and 3% in 2030. Where the implementing decision is adopted by the Council after 31 July 2028, only the tranches of 2029 and 2030 shall be paid.1. Subject to the entry into force of the delegated act referred to in Article 23 and to the availability of funds, the Commission shall make a pre-financing payment. The amount of pre-financing shall be 10% of the Union financial allocation referred to in Article 14 [budgetary commitments] and shall be paid in tranches over three consecutive years, as follows: 4% in 2028, 3% in 2029, and 3% in 2030. Where the implementing decision is adopted by the Council after 31 July 2028, only the tranches of 2029 and 2030 shall be paid.

Amendment 74

Proposal for a regulation

Article 18 – paragraph 1 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) the measures in accordance with Article 21 [Preparation and submission of the Plan] to be financed by the loan support;(b) the measures in accordance with Article 21 [Preparation and submission of the Plan] to be financed by the loan support, including the obligation under Article 10(5) of this Regulation;

Amendment 75

Proposal for a regulation

Article 18 – paragraph 6

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
6. The Commission shall assess the request for loan support in accordance with Article 23 [Commission proposal and Council implementing decision].6. The Commission shall assess the request for loan support in accordance with Article 23 [Commission assessment of the Plan and delegated act].

Amendment 76

Proposal for a regulation

Article 19 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2. Upon adoption of the Council implementing decision referred to in Article 23 [Commission proposal and Council implementing decision], the Commission shall enter into a loan agreement with the Member State. In addition to the elements laid down in Article 223(4) of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509, the loan agreement shall lay down the maximum loan amount, the availability period, the maximum duration of each disbursement of the loan and the detailed terms and conditions of the support. Such agreements may also contain the amount of the pre-financing and rules on clearing of pre-financing2. Upon entry into force of the delegated act referred to in Article 23 [Commission assessment of the Plan and delegated act], the Commission shall enter into a loan agreement with the Member State. In addition to the elements laid down in Article 223(4) of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509, the loan agreement shall lay down the maximum loan amount, the availability period, the maximum duration of each disbursement of the loan and the detailed terms and conditions of the support. Such agreements may also contain the amount of the pre-financing and rules on clearing of pre-financing

Amendment 77

Proposal for a regulation

Article 21 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2. Each Member State shall prepare and implement the Plan in partnership with partners as set out in Article 6 [Partnership], including regional and local authorities, and in accordance with their institutional, legal and financial framework. The Plan shall include national, sectoral and, where relevant, regional and territorial chapters.2. Each Member State shall prepare and implement the Plan in partnership with partners as set out in Article 6 [Partnership], including regional and local authorities, and in accordance with their institutional, legal and financial framework. The Plan shall include national, sectoral, ESF, and, where relevant, regional and territorial chapters .

Amendment 78

Proposal for a regulation

Article 22 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) support the general objectives laid down in Article 2 and contribute in a comprehensive and adequate manner to all the specific objectives laid down in Article 3, taking into account the specific challenges of the Member State concerned, and provide an intervention strategy demonstrating how those objectives will be addressed and financed by the Plan, what level of financing is needed to ensure achievement of the general objectives, and how that level of financing is justified. The NRP Plan of Member State with a per capita GNI of less than 90 % of the Union average shall in particular demonstrate that it contributes in an adequate manner to the specific objectives set out in Article 3(a), points (vii) and (ix), and Article 3(d), point (v).(a) support the general objectives laid down in Article 2 and contribute in a comprehensive and adequate manner to all the specific objectives laid down in Article 3, taking into account the specific challenges of the Member State concerned, and provide an intervention strategy demonstrating how those objectives will be addressed and financed by the Plan, what level of financing is needed to ensure achievement of the general objectives, and how that level of financing is justified. The NRP Plan of Member State with a per capita GNI of less than 90 % of the Union average shall in particular demonstrate that it contributes in an adequate manner to the specific objectives set out in Article 3(a), points (vii) and (ix), Article 3(c), and Article 3(d), point (v). The NRP Plan of a Member State that is divided into administrative regions or territories shall contain a specific regional or territorial chapter.

Amendment 79

Proposal for a regulation

Article 22 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point b – point i

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(i) in the context of the European Semester, in particular in the relevant country-specific recommendations addressed to the Member State, including those related to the European Pillar of Social Rights;(i) in the context of the European Semester, in the country reports, as well as the relevant country-specific recommendations, in particular those that are long standing, and addressed to the Member State, including those related to the European Pillar of Social Rights and the social scoreboard indications;

Amendment 80

Proposal for a regulation

Article 22 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2 – point a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) be consistent, in particular, with the national medium-term fiscal structural plans under Regulation (EU) 2024/1263, national restoration plans under Regulation (EU) 2024/1991 of the European Parliament and of the Council9 , National Energy and Climate Plans under Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 of the European Parliament and of the Council10 ; and national digital decade strategic roadmaps under Decision (EU) 2022/2481 of the European Parliament and of the Council11 ;(a) be consistent, in particular, with the national medium-term fiscal structural plans under Regulation (EU) 2024/1263, national restoration plans under Regulation (EU) 2024/1991 of the European Parliament and of the Council9 , National Energy and Climate Plans under Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 of the European Parliament and of the Council10 ; the European Pillar of Social Rights and the European Pillar of Social Rights Action plan and national digital decade strategic roadmaps under Decision (EU) 2022/2481 of the European Parliament and of the Council11 ;
9 Regulation (EU) 2024/1991 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 June 2024 on nature restoration and amending Regulation (EU) 2022/869 (OJ L, 2024/1991, 29.7.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1991/oj).9 Regulation (EU) 2024/1991 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 June 2024 on nature restoration and amending Regulation (EU) 2022/869 (OJ L, 2024/1991, 29.7.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1991/oj).
10 Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2018 on the Governance of the Energy Union and Climate Action, amending Regulations (EC) No 663/2009 and (EC) No 715/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council, Directives 94/22/EC, 98/70/EC, 2009/31/EC, 2009/73/EC, 2010/31/EU, 2012/27/EU and 2013/30/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council, Council Directives 2009/119/EC and (EU) 2015/652 and repealing Regulation (EU) No 525/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council (OJ L 328, 21.12.2018, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2018/1999/oj).10 Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2018 on the Governance of the Energy Union and Climate Action, amending Regulations (EC) No 663/2009 and (EC) No 715/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council, Directives 94/22/EC, 98/70/EC, 2009/31/EC, 2009/73/EC, 2010/31/EU, 2012/27/EU and 2013/30/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council, Council Directives 2009/119/EC and (EU) 2015/652 and repealing Regulation (EU) No 525/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council (OJ L 328, 21.12.2018, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2018/1999/oj).
11 Decision (EU) 2022/2481 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 December 2022 establishing the Digital Decade Policy Programme 2030 (OJ L 323, 19.12.2022, p. 4, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec/2022/2481/oj).11 Decision (EU) 2022/2481 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 December 2022 establishing the Digital Decade Policy Programme 2030 (OJ L 323, 19.12.2022, p. 4, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec/2022/2481/oj).

Amendment 81

Proposal for a regulation

Article 22 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2 – point e

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(e) set out clear arrangements for the effective monitoring and implementation of the Plan by the Member State concerned, including the responsible authorities and monitoring committees reflecting the objective of establishing a robust multi governance system based on the partnership principle, the envisaged approach to communication and visibility, an identification of potential technical support needs, as well as clear and effective arrangements between the national and regional authorities in terms of responsibilities for programming, implementation, financial management, monitoring and evaluation, in accordance with the institutional and legal framework of the Member State;(e) set out clear arrangements for the effective monitoring and implementation of the Plan by the Member State concerned and, where applicable, for its regional and local authorities, including the responsible authorities and monitoring committees reflecting the objective of establishing a robust multi governance system based on the partnership principle, the envisaged approach to communication and visibility, an identification of potential technical support needs, as well as clear and effective arrangements between the national and regional authorities in terms of responsibilities for programming, implementation, financial management, monitoring and evaluation, in accordance with the institutional and legal framework of the Member State;

Amendment 82

Proposal for a regulation

Article 22 – paragraph 2 subparagraph 2 – point f – introductory part

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(f) reduce economic, social and territorial disparities in less developed, transition and more developed regions, in particular by:(f) reduce economic, social and territorial disparities in less developed, transition and more developed regions, through actions not covered by the ESF, in particular by:

Amendment 83

Proposal for a regulation

Article 22 – paragraph 2 subparagraph 2 – point g – point i a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(ia) the specific conditions and in particular the thematic concentrations established in Regulation XX [establishing the European Social Fund as part of the Fund set out in Regulation (EU) […] [NRP] and establishing conditions for the implementation of the Union support to quality employment, skills and social inclusion for the period from 2028 to 2034];

Amendment 84

Proposal for a regulation

Article 22 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2 – point g – point i b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(ib) for Member States subject to a second-stage Social Convergence Framework Analysis as a part of the Joint Employment Report, related specific objectives under Article 3 shall be met thoroughly and comprehensively, with particular focus on measures tackling the risks identified in the second-stage analysis;

Amendment 85

Proposal for a regulation

Article 22 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2 – point g – point i c (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(ic) in the context of Union instruments addressing poverty reduction and equality, such as the European Anti-Poverty Strategy, European Child Guarantee, the EU Roma Strategic Framework, European affordable housing plan, the Union of Equality strategies, and other relevant strategies, action plans, and sector-specific coordination frameworks;

Amendment 86

Proposal for a regulation

Article 22 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2 – point g – point ii

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(ii) social measures in accordance with Annex VI [social allocations].(ii) social measures in accordance with Regulation XX [establishing the European Social Fund as part of the Fund set out in Regulation (EU) […] [NRP] and establishing conditions for the implementation of the Union support to quality employment, skills and social inclusion for the period from 2028 to 2034].

Amendment 87

Proposal for a regulation

Article 22 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2 – point p a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(pa) specify the way in which the Plan and its envisaged implementation ensure the respect of the rights, freedoms and principles set out in the United Nations Convention on the rights of persons with disabilities (UNCRPD) and the principle of gender equality referred to in Article 7 [Horizontal principles].

Amendment 88

Proposal for a regulation

Article 22 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2 – point p b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(pb) specify the way in which the Plan and its envisaged implementation ensure the respect of the rights, freedoms and principles set out in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) referred to in Article 7 [Horizontal principles].

Amendment 89

Proposal for a regulation

Article 22 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2 – point q

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(q) ensure that the NRP Plan contributes to the Union’s social objectives. At least 14% of the total Union contribution and loans shall be dedicated to meeting these objectives, calculated by using the coefficients referred to in Article 6(1) of Regulation (EU) …/… [Performance Regulation]. The amount set out in Article 10(2), point (a) (ii), as well as externally assigned revenue from the Social Climate Fund shall be excluded from the basis for the calculation of this minimum allocation.(q) ensure that the NRP Plan contributes to the Union’s social objectives. At least 14% of the total Union contribution and loans shall be dedicated to meeting these objectives, calculated by using the coefficients referred to in Article 6(1) of Regulation (EU) …/… [Performance Regulation]. The amount set out in Article 10(2), point (a) letters (ia) and (ii) shall be excluded from the basis for the calculation of this minimum allocation.

Amendment 90

Proposal for a regulation

Article 24 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. A Member State may submit to the Commission a reasoned request for an amendment of its NRP Plan, together with the amended NRP Plan, setting out the expected impact of that amendment on the achievement of the objectives laid down in Articles 2 and 3.1. A Member State may submit to the Commission a reasoned request for an amendment of its NRP Plan, together with the amended NRP Plan, setting out the expected impact of that amendment on the achievement of the objectives laid down in Articles 2 and 3. Based on the conclusions of the consultation, the Commission may require Member States to improve their compliance with the principle of partnership and to involve stakeholders more efficiently in the implementation of the Plans.

Amendment 91

Proposal for a regulation

Article 24 – paragraph 9 – introductory part

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
9. The specific measures identified in the implementing decision referred to in Article 8(4) [Charter conditions] shall not be amended until the decision has been repealed, unless the amendment is intended to support measures that contribute to:9. The specific measures identified in the implementing decision referred to in Article 8(4) [Charter conditions] shall not be amended until the decision has been repealed:

Amendment 92

Proposal for a regulation

Article 24 – paragraph 9 – point a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) the fulfilment of the Charter horizontal condition;deleted

Amendment 93

Proposal for a regulation

Article 24 – paragraph 9 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) addressing significant changes in the priorities of the Union, within the limit of 30% of the amounts associated with the specific measures concerned.deleted

Amendment 94

Proposal for a regulation

Article 25 – paragraph 1 – point a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) the challenges identified in accordance with Article 22(2), points (a), (b) and (c) [Requirements of the Plan];(a) the challenges identified in accordance with Article 22(2), points (a), (b), (c), (g)(ii) and (q) [Requirements of the Plan];

Amendment 95

Proposal for a regulation

Article 25 – paragraph 1 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) the socio-economic situation of the Member State or region concerned, with special emphasis on territorial needs, taking into account any major negative financial, economic or social development;(b) the socio-economic situation of the Member State or region concerned, with special emphasis on territorial and demographic needs, and taking into account any major negative financial, economic or social development;

Amendment 96

Proposal for a regulation

Article 25 – paragraph 1 – point g

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(g) the need to ensure continuous compliance of the Rule of Law and the Charter horizontal conditions in the implementation of the Plan, taking into consideration in particular the country-specific challenges identified in the context of the Rule of Law Report and the European Semester.(g) the need to ensure continuous compliance with non-discrimination principle, the Rule of Law, the Charter, UNCRPD and gender equality horizontal conditions, , in the implementation of the Plan, taking into consideration in particular the country-specific challenges identified in the context of the Rule of Law Report and the European Semester.

Amendment 97

Proposal for a regulation

Article 25 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2. The Member State shall submit an amended NRP Plan presenting the outcome of the mid-term review, including a review of the estimated total costs of the measures covered by the Plan and a proposal for additional measures to be supported by the flexibility amount referred to in Article 14(2) by 31 March 2031.2. The Member State shall, following consultation with the partners described in Article 6(1), submit an amended NRP Plan presenting the outcome of the mid-term review, including a review of the estimated total costs of the measures covered by the Plan and a proposal for additional measures to be supported by the flexibility amount referred to in Article 14(2) by 31 March 2031.

Amendment 98

Proposal for a regulation

Article 26 – paragraph 4 – point a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) EUR 63 223 000 000 billion for Union actions, including the Unity Safety Net as referred to in paragraph 1, point (j) of Annex XV [Union actions], Union actions as referred to in paragraph 1, point (l) of Annex XV (Union actions supported by the EU Facility, Home affairs actions), support LIFE actions as referred to in paragraph 1, point (n) of Annex XV [Union actions], Solidarity Actions as referred to in paragraph 1, point (i) of Annex XV [Union actions] supported by the EU Facility;(a) EUR 63 223 000 000 billion for Union actions, including the Unity Safety Net as referred to in paragraph 1, point (j) of Annex XV [Union actions], Union actions as referred to in paragraph 1, point (l) of Annex XV (Union actions supported by the EU Facility, Home affairs actions), support LIFE actions as referred to in paragraph 1, point (n) of Annex XV [Union actions], Union actions as referred to in paragraph 1, points (b) and (d) of Annex XV [Union actions supported by the European Social Fund], Solidarity Actions as referred to in paragraph 1, point (i) of Annex XV [Union actions] supported by the EU Facility;

Amendment 99

Proposal for a regulation

Article 28 – paragraph 1 – point c a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(ca) Overseas Countries and Territories;

Amendment 100

Proposal for a regulation

Article 29 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Union support may be provided for actions in or in relation to third countries, provided that those actions contribute to the objectives set out in Article 3 [Specific objectives]. Such actions shall serve the interests of internal Union policies and be consistent with activities undertaken within the Union.Union support may be provided for actions in or in relation to third countries, Overseas Countries and Territories, provided that those actions contribute to the objectives set out in Article 3 [Specific objectives]. Such actions shall serve the interests of internal Union policies and be consistent with activities undertaken within the Union.

Amendment 101

Proposal for a regulation

Article 34 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Member States may request to amend the NRP Plans in accordance with Article 24 [Amendment of the plan] to provide support to measures of a similar nature to those referred to in paragraph 1 point (i) of Annex XV [natural disasters], as well as to provide crisis payments to farmers that are affected by natural disasters and supporting investments in the restoration of agricultural potential, provided that they were recognised as such by a competent public authority of the Member State.Member States may request to amend the NRP Plans in accordance with Article 24 [Amendment of the plan] to provide support to measures of a similar nature to those referred to in paragraph 1 point (i) of Annex XV [natural disasters], including severe crises that have a significant impact on the livelihoods of citizens and workers, as well as to provide crisis payments to farmers that are affected by natural disasters and supporting investments in the restoration of agricultural potential, provided that they were recognised as such by a competent public authority of the Member State.

Amendment 102

Proposal for a regulation

Article 46 – paragraph 1 – introductory part

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. Member States concerned shall prepare, as part of their Plan, measures to address the Union’s outermost regions’ permanent and structural constraints which severely restrain their development, as recognised in Article 349 TFEU. The measures may be implemented in a dedicated chapter. The measures shall address the following objectives:1. Member States concerned shall prepare, as part of their Plan, measures to address the Union’s outermost regions’ and Overseas Countries and Territories' permanent and structural constraints which severely restrain their development, as recognised in Article 349 TFEU. The measures may be implemented in a dedicated chapter. The measures shall address the following objectives:

Amendment 103

Proposal for a regulation

Article 46 – paragraph 1 – point a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) Providing for their specific needs and challenges, such as food security, housing, sustainable transport, water and waste management, energy, employment and labour mobility, in particular for young people, decarbonisation, circularity, education and skills, social inclusion, migration, climate change resilience and adaptation, environmental protection, blue economy, access to healthcare, energy, sustainable transport and digital connectivity and economic development, including a sustainable and diversified blue economy;(a) Providing for their specific needs and challenges, such as food security, social and affordable housing, eradicating poverty and homelessness sustainable transport, water and waste management, energy, quality jobs and labour mobility, in particular for young people, decarbonisation, circularity, education and skills, social inclusion, migration, climate change resilience and adaptation, environmental protection, blue economy, access to healthcare, energy, sustainable transport and digital connectivity and economic development, including a sustainable and diversified blue economy;

Amendment 104

Proposal for a regulation

Article 46 – paragraph 2 – point f

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(f) specific support to enhance access to employment and labour mobility, education, skills and social inclusion with a view to offsetting the additional costs linked to their remoteness and to provide for a level-playing field with continental Europe, fostering their security and resilience.(f) specific support to enhance access to quality jobs and labour mobility, education, skills and social inclusion with a view to offsetting the additional costs linked to their remoteness and to provide for a level-playing field with continental Europe, fostering their security and resilience.

Amendment 105

Proposal for a regulation

Article 54 – paragraph 6 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
6a. The monitoring committees shall operate in accordance with the principles of multi-level governance and partnership. Member States shall therefor ensure the participation of social partners and civil society in the Monitoring Committees.

Amendment 106

Proposal for a regulation

Article 56 – paragraph 1 – point c

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(c) the fulfilment of the Rule of Law and Charter horizontal conditions laid down in Articles 8 and 9 [Rule of law and charter horizontal conditions] and their application throughout the programming period;(c) the fulfilment of the Rule of Law, Charter, non-discrimination, disability and gender equality horizontal conditions laid down in Articles 8 and 9 [Rule of law and charter horizontal conditions] and their application throughout the programming period;

Amendment 107

Proposal for a regulation

Article 56 – paragraph 1 – point c a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(ca) the respect of the rights, freedoms and principles set out in the United Nations Convention on the rights of persons with disabilities (UNCRPD), the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child UNCRC and the principle of gender equality referred to in Article 7 [Horizontal principles] and their application throughout the programming period;

Amendment 108

Proposal for a regulation

Article 63 – paragraph 1 – introductory part

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. For the purposes of audit and controls, transparency and performance monitoring and evaluation, Member States shall collect, record and store electronically the information referred to in points (a) to (g), while ensuring the security, integrity and confidentiality of data and the authentication of users and allowing automated data exchange with the electronic system identified by the Commission:1. For the purposes of audit and controls, transparency and performance monitoring and evaluation, Member States shall collect, record and store electronically the information referred to in points (a) to (g), while ensuring the security, integrity and confidentiality of data and the authentication of users and allowing automated data exchange with the electronic system identified by the Commission, where appropriate, the data collected should be broken down by gender:

Amendment 109

Proposal for a regulation

Article 63 – paragraph 3 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
3a. Member States shall ensure that the data collected under this Article also allow, as far as possible, for an assessment of the impact of Union support on the sustainability of rural areas facing demographic decline, in particular with regard to job creation and retention.

Amendment 110

Proposal for a regulation

Article 63 – paragraph 3 b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
3b. Member States shall also take into account the impact of Union funding on employment in insular, mountainous and remote areas, where economic activities and employment opportunities are limited.

Amendment 111

Proposal for a regulation

Article 63 – paragraph 3 c (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
3c. The data collected in accordance with this Article shall also contribute to the assessment of the contribution of Union support to the generational renewal of the agricultural sector and to the creation of employment opportunities for young workers and young farmers.

Amendment 112

Proposal for a regulation

Article 63 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Article 63a
Transparency
1. The Commission shall transmit the NRP plans officially submitted by the Member States, and the proposals for Council implementing decisions referred to in Article 23, as made public by the Commission, simultaneously and on equal terms to the European Parliament and the Council without undue delay.
2. Information transmitted by the Commission to the Council or any of its preparatory bodies in the context of this Regulation or its implementation shall simultaneously be made available to the European Parliament, subject to confidentiality arrangements if necessary. Relevant outcomes of discussions held in Council preparatory bodies shall be shared with the competent committee of the European Parliament.
3. The Member State concerned may request the Commission to redact sensitive or confidential information, the disclosure of which would jeopardise public interests of the Member State. In such a case, the Commission shall liaise with the European Parliament and the Council regarding how the redacted information can be made available to them in a confidential manner in accordance with the applicable rules.
4. The Commission shall provide the competent committee of the European Parliament with an overview of its preliminary findings concerning the satisfactory fulfilment of the relevant milestones and targets included in the NRP plans of the Member States.
5. The competent committee of the European Parliament may invite the Commission to provide information on the state of play of the assessment of the NRP plans in the context of the NRP dialogue referred to in Article 64a.

Amendment 113

Proposal for a regulation

Article 64 – title

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
TransparencyTransparency Website

Amendment 114

Proposal for a regulation

Article 64 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. The Member State shall, within six months of the adoption of the Council decision referred to in Article 23 [Commission proposal and Council implementing decision], ensure that a website is operational where information on support under this Regulation is available, covering the Plan’s objectives, activities, available funding opportunities and achievements.1. The Member State shall, within six months of the entry into force of the delegated act referred to in Article 23 [Commission assessment of the Plan and delegated act], ensure that a website is operational where information on support under this Regulation is available, covering the Plan’s objectives, activities, available funding opportunities and achievements.

Amendment 115

Proposal for a regulation

Article 64 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Article 64a
National and Regional Partnership Dialogue
1. In order to enhance the dialogue between the Union institutions, in particular the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission, and to ensure greater transparency and accountability, the competent committee of the European Parliament may invite the Commission every two months to discuss the following matters:
(a) the state of National and Regional Partnership in the Union, as well as the measures adopted under this Regulation;
(b) the NRP plans and their assessment of the Member States;
(c) the main findings of the implementation report referred to in the performance framework applicable for the 2028-2034 multiannual financial framework;
(d) the status of fulfilment of the milestones and targets of the NRP plans of the Member States;
(e) payment, suspension and termination procedures, including any observation presented and remedial measures taken by the Member States to ensure a satisfactory fulfilment of the milestones and targets;
(f) any other relevant information and documentation provided by the Commission to the competent committee of the European Parliament in relation to the implementation of the Fund.
2. The European Parliament may express its views in resolutions as regards the matters referred to in paragraph 1.
3. The Commission shall take into account any elements arising from the views expressed through the national and regional partnership dialogue, including the resolutions from the European Parliament if provided.

Amendment 116

Proposal for a regulation

Article 75 – paragraph 2 – point a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) contribute to achieving the objectives laid down in Articles 2 and 3 [Objectives of the Plan];(a) contribute to achieving the objectives laid down in Articles 2 and 3 [Objectives of the Plan], including adhering to the principles of just transition;

Amendment 117

Proposal for a regulation

Article 75 – paragraph 2 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) set out the geographical area and population covered by the strategy;(b) set out the geographical area and population covered by the strategy, including targets aimed at the social and spatial inclusion of Roma communities and the gradual desegregation of segregated settlements;

Amendment 118

Proposal for a regulation

Article 76 – paragraph 1 – point c

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(c) be carried out through strategies in accordance with Article 75 [Integrated territorial and urban development], supportive of innovative features in the local context, networking and cooperation with other territorial actors(c) be carried out through strategies in accordance with Article 75 [Integrated territorial and urban development] and just transition principles, supportive of innovative features in the local context, networking and cooperation with other territorial actors

Amendment 119

Proposal for a regulation

Article 80 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2. Eligible measures and investments included in the Social Climate Plans shall continue to be eligible under the Plan, subject to Article 7 [horizontal principles].2. Eligible measures and investments included in the Social Climate Plans shall continue to be eligible under the Plan, subject to Article 7 [horizontal principles]. Their design and implementation shall prioritise and demonstrably benefit vulnerable households, vulnerable micro-enterprises and vulnerable transport users, with a view to reducing energy poverty, public transport poverty and social exclusion.

Amendment 120

Proposal for a regulation

Article 80 – paragraph 3

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
3. The rules laid down in this Regulation shall apply to the Social Climate Plan chapter.deleted

Amendment 121

Proposal for a regulation

Article 80 – paragraph 4

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
4. By derogation from paragraph 3, a Member State may choose to continue implementing its Social Climate Plan chapter under the rules laid down in Regulation (EU) 2023/955. In case of doubt about the application between Regulation (EU) 2023/955 and this Regulation, Regulation (EU) 2023/955 shall prevail, without prejudice to Articles 6, 8 and 9 of this Regulation.deleted

Amendment 122

Proposal for a regulation

Article 80 – paragraph 5

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
5. The national contribution set out in Article 15 of Regulation 2023/955 shall continue to apply to the Social Climate Plan chapter.deleted

Amendment 123

Proposal for a regulation

Article 80 – paragraph 6

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
6. Member States may, when preparing or amending their National and Regional Partnership Plans, programme all or part of their available resources under the Social Climate Fund to other measures contributing to the objectives laid down in Article 3, point (c)(vi), including through measures set out in Article 8 of Regulation (EU) 2023/955, within their Social Climate Plan chapter.deleted

Amendment 124

Proposal for a regulation

Article 81

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Article 81deleted
Transfer of resources
Member States may request in their initial Plan to transfer amounts from their 2026 and 2027 allocations under the Social Climate Fund. Such amounts shall be programmed within their Social Climate Plan chapters. These amounts shall constitute external assigned revenue in accordance with Article 21(5) of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 and contribute to the objectives laid down in Article 3, point (c)(iv), including through measures set out in Article 8 of Regulation (EU) 2023/955.

Amendment 125

Proposal for a regulation

Article 83 – paragraph 1 – point 2

Regulation (EU) 2023/955

Article 27a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(2) The following Article 27a is inserteddeleted
‘Article 27a
Social Climate Plans and National and Regional Partnership Plans
1. Member States shall include in National and Regional Partnership Plans to be submitted in accordance with Article 21 of Regulation XXX [NRPP Regulation] the investments and measures of Social Climate Plans prepared and adopted in accordance with this Regulation in a separate chapter, as set out in Article 80 of Regulation xx [NRPP Regulation].
2. The rules of Regulation XXX [NRPP Regulation] shall apply to the Social Climate Plan chapter.
3. By derogation from paragraph 3, a Member State may choose to continue implementing its Social Climate Plan chapter under the rules of this Regulation. In case of doubt about the application between Regulation XXX [NRPP Regulation] and this Regulation, this Regulation shall prevail, with the exception of Articles 6, 8, and 9 of Regulation XXX [NRPP Regulation].
4. Without prejudice to outstanding payment requests submitted by the Member State to the Commission under Article 20 of this Regulation, upon adoption of the implementing decision referred to in Article 23 [Commission proposal and Council implementing decision] approving the National and Regional Partnership Plan, the Commission shall amend or terminate the agreement set out in Article 19 of this Regulation, in case such an agreement has been concluded with Member States.’

Amendment 126

Proposal for a regulation

Annex V – point 1 – point 1.2 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Description of the specific challenges of the Member State taking into account the relevant country-specific recommendations addressed to the Member State concerned, in particular in the context of the European Semester and in line with the European Pillar of Social Rights, the CAP national recommendations and challenges identified in the documents and strategies referred to in Article 22(2), point (b)Description of the specific challenges of the Member State taking into account the relevant country-specific recommendations addressed to the Member State concerned, in particular in the context of the European Semester and its Social Convergence Framework, Joint Employment Report, the European Pillar of Social Rights plan, European Anti-Poverty Strategy and in line with the European Pillar of Social Rights, the CAP national recommendations and challenges identified in the documents and strategies referred to in Article 22(2), point (b)

Amendment 127

Proposal for a regulation

Annex V – point 1 – point 1.7 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Comprehensive overview of the Plan’s support to the social measures listed in Annex VI [methodology for contribution to social objectives], taking into account the specific national and regional needs and challenges identified, inter alia, in the context of the European Semester [2000]Comprehensive overview of the Plan’s support to the specific provisions and in particular the thematic concentrations as laid down in Regulation XX [establishing the European Social Fund as part of the Fund set out in Regulation (EU) […] [NRP] and establishing conditions for the implementation of the Union support to quality employment, skills and social inclusion for the period from 2028 to 2034] and to Union instruments addressing poverty reduction and equality, taking into account the specific national and regional needs and challenges identified, inter alia, in the context of the European Semester and its Social Convergence Framework and taking into account the principles and rights set out in the European Pillar of Social Rights.

Amendment 128

Proposal for a regulation

Annex V – point 1 – point 1.7 – paragraph 1 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Comprehensive overview of the Plan’s support to social investments and reforms other than those objective laid down in Regulation XX [establishing the European Social Fund as part of the Fund set out in Regulation (EU) […] [NRP] and establishing conditions for the implementation of the Union support to quality employment, skills and social inclusion for the period from 2028 to 2034]

Amendment 129

Proposal for a regulation

Annex V – point 1 – point 1.7 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the Commission
Category of measures referred to in Annex VI (points a) to d)Contributing Chapter(s)Total estimated costs (EUR)EU contribution (EUR)List of supporting reforms (where appropriate)
a) Social inclusionChapter xxXXXX
Chapter xxXXXX
Sub-totalXXXX
b) Food and/or basic material assistanceChapter xx
Chapter xx
Sub-total
c) Support to address child povertyChapter xx
Chapter xx
Sub-total
d) Combatting youth unemployment, including through education and trainingChapter xx
Chapter xx
Sub-total
TOTALXXXX
Amendment
deleted

Amendment 130

Proposal for a regulation

Annex V – point 1 – point 1.7 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Reference: Article 22(2), point (i)(ii)deleted

Amendment 131

Proposal for a regulation

Annex V – point 1 – point 1.9 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Comprehensive overview of the planned use of integrated territorial development in cities, urban and rural areas, community-led local development, in particular LEADER, or other territorial tools including just transition, smart specialisation strategies and strategies for decarbonisation developed with the support of Union instruments in the 2021-2027 period [1 000]Comprehensive overview of the planned use of integrated territorial development in cities, urban and rural areas, community-led local development, in particular LEADER, or other territorial tools including just transition measures, smart specialisation strategies and strategies for decarbonisation developed with the support of Union instruments in the 2021-2027 period [1 000]

Amendment 132

Proposal for a regulation

Annex V – point 2 – point 2.3 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Description of the mechanisms in place to ensure compliance with the principle of gender quality in the implementation of the Plan.Description of the mechanisms in place to ensure compliance with the principle of gender quality in the design and implementation of the Plan and a gender equality assessment for each measure.

Amendment 133

Proposal for a regulation

Annex V – point 2 – point 2.3 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2.3a. Description of the mechanisms in place to ensure compliance with the rights, freedoms and principles set out in the United Nations Convention on the rights of persons with disabilities (UNCRPD) in the design and implementation of the Plan.

Amendment 134

Proposal for a regulation

Annex VI

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Methodology for the contribution to social objectivesdeleted
For the purpose of Article 22(2), point (i), letter (ii), and taking into account the specific national and regional needs and challenges identified, inter alia, in the context of the European Semester and in line with the European Pillar of Social Rights, Member States shall concentrate resources in their Plans on the following measures:
(a) to foster active social inclusion and socio-economic integration with a view to promoting equal opportunities, non-discrimination and active participation, and improving employability, in particular for disadvantaged groups, third-country nationals including migrants and marginalized communities.
(b) to address material deprivation through food and/or basic material assistance to the most deprived persons and providing accompanying measures supporting their social inclusion;
(c) to implement the Child Guarantee through targeted actions and structural reforms to tackle child poverty particularly in Member States that have an average rate above the Union average of children of less than 18 years old at risk of poverty or social exclusion, based on Eurostat data, between the years 2024 and 2026;
(d) to implement the Youth Guarantee through targeted actions and structural reforms to support youth employment, vocational education and training, particularly in Member states that have an average rate above the Union average of young people of 15 to 29 years of age who are not in employment, education or training, based on Eurostat data, between the years 2024 and 2026.
The indicative amounts allocated to the above categories of measures shall be submitted based on the template for the Plan set out in Annex V and agreed with the Commission.

Amendment 135

Proposal for a regulation

Annex XV – point 1 – point c

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(c) support microfinance, social enterprise finance, social economy and measures to promote gender equality, skills, education, training and related services, social infrastructure, including health and educational infrastructure and social and affordable housing, including for students and young people, health and long-term care, inclusion and accessibility, with a focus on integrating people in vulnerable situations, including people experiencing or at risk of poverty, social exclusion or discrimination.(c) support microfinance, social enterprise finance, social economy and measures to promote gender equality, skills, education, training and related services, social infrastructure, including health and educational infrastructure and decent, sustainable and affordable housing and affordable housing, including social housing, including for students and young people, early childhood education and care, health and long-term care, inclusion and accessibility, with a focus on integrating people in vulnerable situations, including people experiencing or at risk of poverty, social exclusion, homelessness or discrimination;

Amendment 136

Proposal for a regulation

Annex XV – point 1 – point d

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(d) foster evidence-based policy making in the areas related to the implementation of the European Pillar of Social Rights, in particular on quality and sustainable employment, social inclusion, education and skills, social finance ecosystems and health and safety at work;(d) foster evidence-based policy making in the areas related to the implementation of the European Pillar of Social Rights, in particular on quality and sustainable employment, social inclusion and eradication of poverty, education and skills, social finance ecosystems and health and safety at work;

Amendment 137

Proposal for a regulation

Annex XV – point 1 – point i

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(i) address urgent and specific needs as a response to a crisis situation such as major or regional natural disaster, and foster repair and recovery in view of increasing resilience following a crisis;(i) address urgent and specific needs as a response to a crisis situation such as major or regional natural disaster, crises that have a severe detrimental effects on citizens’ livelihoods such as a major economic crisis or major restructuring events and foster repair and recovery in view of increasing resilience following a crisis;
Annex: letter from the commission declarations of input 1 paragraph

The rapporteur for opinion declares under his exclusive responsibility that he did not include in his opinion input from interest representatives falling within the scope of the Interinstitutional Agreement on a mandatory transparency register, or from representatives of public authorities of third countries, including their diplomatic missions and embassies, to be listed in this Annex pursuant to Article 8 of Annex I to the Rules of Procedure.

Procedure pages

How the committees handled the text, and how their members voted on it.

Procedure – committee asked for opinion 1 paragraph
TitleEstablishing the European Fund for economic, social and territorial cohesion, agriculture and rural, fisheries and maritime, prosperity and security for the period 2028-2034
ReferencesCOM(2025)0565 – C10-0179/2025 – 2025/0240(COD)
Committee(s) responsible Date announced in plenaryBUDG 23.10.2025REGI 23.10.2025AGRI 23.10.2025
Opinion by Date announced in plenaryEMPL 23.10.2025
Rapporteur for opinion Date appointedSérgio Humberto 16.1.2026
Discussed in committee17.3.2026
Date adopted2.9.2026
Result of final vote+: –: 0:43 5 6
Final vote by roll call by the committee asked for opinion 3 paragraphs

43 · For

ECR
Elena Donazzan, Georgiana Teodorescu, Francesco Torselli, Mariateresa Vivaldini
No group
Branislav Ondruš, Jan-Peter Warnke
EPP
Maravillas Abadía Jover, Hildegard Bentele, Andrzej Buła, David Casa, Gheorghe Falcă, Niels Geuking, Norbert Herhammer, Sérgio Humberto, Martine Kemp, Isabelle Le Callennec, Jagna Marczułajtis-Walczak, Eleonora Meleti, Letizia Moratti, Liesbet Sommen, Romana Tomc
Renew
Grégory Allione, Elisabetta Gualmini, Hristo Petrov, Jana Toom
S&D
Marc Angel, Vilija Blinkevičiūtė, Estelle Ceulemans, Vivien Costanzo, Alicia Homs Ginel, Marina Kaljurand, Marit Maij, Ana Catarina Mendes, Matjaž Nemec, Aodhán Ó Ríordáin, Marianne Vind
The Left
Konstantinos Arvanitis, Leila Chaibi, Per Clausen, Kathleen Funchion
Greens
Katrin Langensiepen, Maria Ohisalo, Villy Søvndal

5 · Against

ESN
Petr Bystron, Petar Volgin
EPP
Henrik Dahl
Patriots
Petra Steger
The Left
João Oliveira

6 · Abstained

ECR
Marlena Maląg
Patriots
Mélanie Disdier, Julien Leonardelli, Margarita de la Pisa Carrión, Ernő Schaller-Baross, Séverine Werbrouck