opinion parliamentary committee, 13 July 2026
On the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing the 'AgoraEU' programme for the period 2028-2034, and repealing Regulations (EU) 2021/692 and (EU) 2021/818
Document FEMM-AD-784251 · (COM(2025)0550 – C10-0173/2025 – 2025/0550(COD))
Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality · Rapporteur: Mélissa Camara
AI:In short
The Committee on Women's Rights and Gender Equality gives its opinion on the proposed AgoraEU programme for 2028-2034, which would replace existing funding instruments in democracy, fundamental rights and equality. It warns of backsliding on the rule of law and on the rights of women, LGBTIQ persons and minorities, and says civil society organisations play an essential counterbalancing role. It asks that the legacy of the CERV programme and its Daphne strand against violence against women and girls be preserved, with continuity, adequate resources and clear political commitment. It says consolidating existing instruments under AgoraEU must not dilute equality and fundamental rights priorities. It calls for gender equality, including sexual and reproductive health and rights, to be a structuring objective, for predictable multiannual operating grants, for accessible funding for grassroots actors, and for an intersectional approach. It argues the EU's human rights credibility abroad depends on upholding those rights internally, and that AgoraEU must be designed as an instrument of democratic consolidation.
Position. The committee proposes that AgoraEU explicitly recognise gender equality and sexual and reproductive health and rights as a structuring objective, guarantee predictable multiannual operating grants, make funding accessible to grassroots actors, and integrate an intersectional approach, while preserving the CERV and Daphne legacy.
Key points
- The opinion concerns the proposed AgoraEU programme for 2028-2034, a main EU financial instrument for democracy, fundamental rights and equality.
- It finds worrying backsliding on the rule of law and growing challenges to the rights of women, LGBTIQ persons and minorities in several member states.
- It states that Article 2 Treaty on European Union values impose concrete obligations on the Union institutions and the member states.
- It says attacks on sexual and reproductive rights, stigmatisation of LGBTIQ persons, rollback of equality policies and shrinking civic space reflect a broader democratic regression.
- It stresses that civil society organisations support victims, ensure access to rights, litigate, contribute to public debate and monitor compliance with Union law.
- It notes that feminist, anti-racist and LGBTIQ organisations are on the frontline and face political pressure, delegitimisation campaigns, legal restrictions and funding cuts.
- It asks that the legacy of the CERV programme and its Daphne strand on violence against women and girls be preserved and strengthened.
- It demands that integrating these instruments into AgoraEU ensure continuity, adequate resources and clear political commitment to fighting gender-based violence across the Union.
- It insists that consolidation under AgoraEU must not dilute equality and fundamental rights priorities, which would amount to endorsing erosion of fundamental rights.
- It calls for explicit recognition of gender equality, including full realisation of sexual and reproductive health and rights, as a structuring objective.
- It calls for predictable and multiannual operating grants to guarantee the independence of civil society organisations.
- It calls for effective accessibility of funding for grassroots actors, particularly where civic space is restricted, and for an intersectional approach to overlapping discrimination.
Who is affected
- Civil society organisations, especially feminist, anti-racist and LGBTIQ groups, which would receive operating grants and funding.
- Women, LGBTIQ persons and minorities facing discrimination, violence and rights backsliding.
- Member states, which the opinion says must uphold Article 2 Treaty on European Union values.
- Grassroots actors in environments where civic space is restricted, for whom funding accessibility is demanded.
Figures and deadlines
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Short justification 12 paragraphs
The AgoraEU Programme will be one of the European Union’s main financial instruments for the period 2028–2034 in the fields of democracy, fundamental rights and equality. It comes at a time marked by worrying backsliding on the rule of law and increasing challenges to the rights of women, LGBTIQ persons and minorities in several Member States.
The values enshrined in Article 2 of the Treaty on European Union — human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and respect for human rights — are not merely declaratory principles. They impose concrete obligations on the Union institutions and the Member States. Repeated attacks on sexual and reproductive rights, the stigmatisation of LGBTIQ persons, the rollback of equality policies and the shrinking of civic space reflect a broader democratic regression that weakens the European project as a whole.
In this context, civil society organisations play an essential counterbalancing role. They support victims of discrimination and violence, ensure access to rights, engage in strategic litigation, contribute to public debate and monitor compliance with Union law. Feminist, anti-racist and LGBTIQ organisations are often on the frontline. They are also increasingly targeted by political pressure, delegitimisation campaigns, legal restrictions and funding cuts.
The opinion also emphasises the importance of preserving and strengthening the legacy of existing programmes, in particular the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values (CERV) programme and its Daphne strand dedicated to preventing and combating violence against women and girls. These instruments have played a crucial role in supporting civil society organisations, improving victim support and advancing the Union’s efforts to prevent and combat gender-based violence. The integration of these instruments within AgoraEU must therefore ensure continuity, adequate resources and a clear political commitment to sustaining and reinforcing the fight against gender-based violence across the Union.
EU funding therefore constitutes a decisive lever to preserve civic space and ensure the effective protection of fundamental rights. The consolidation of existing instruments under AgoraEU must under no circumstances lead to a dilution of priorities related to equality and fundamental rights. Such dilution would, de facto, amount to endorsing the erosion of fundamental rights within the Union.
A coherent and credible programme must therefore:
• explicitly recognise gender equality, including the full realisation of sexual and reproductive health and rights, as a structuring objective;
• guarantee predictable and multiannual operating grants to ensure the independence of civil society organisations;
• ensure effective accessibility of funding for grassroots actors, particularly in environments where civic space is restricted;
• integrate an intersectional approach to address multiple and overlapping forms of discrimination.
The credibility of the European Union on the international stage in the field of human rights depends on its ability to uphold those same rights within its own borders. It cannot promote equality and the rule of law externally while weakening the instruments that safeguard them internally.
AgoraEU must therefore be designed as an instrument of democratic consolidation. In the current context, ambiguity does not protect the Union — it exposes it. Clearly affirming the defence of equality and civic space is a legal, political and democratic imperative.
Amendments 317 paragraphs
The Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality presents to the Committee on Culture and Education and the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs, as the committees responsible:
Amendment 1
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (1) Pursuant to Article 2 of the Treaty on European Union (TEU), the Union is founded on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and the respect for human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities, which are common to the Member States in a society in which pluralism, non-discrimination, tolerance, justice, solidarity and equality between women and men prevail (‘Union values’). The Union values are reflected in the rights, freedoms and principles set out in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union (the ‘Charter’). Article 3 TEU further mandates the Union to promote the protection of the rights of the child. Article 10 TEU further states that the functioning of the Union shall be founded on representative democracy, that citizens are directly represented at Union level in the European Parliament and that citizens have the right to participate in the democratic life of the Union. Article 20 establishes Union citizenship and sets out important rights that citizens of the Union shall, inter alia, enjoy. | (1) Pursuant to Article 2 of the Treaty on European Union (TEU), the Union is founded on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and the respect for human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities, which are common to the Member States in a society in which pluralism, non-discrimination, tolerance, justice, solidarity and equality between women and men prevail (‘Union values’). The Union values are reflected in the rights, freedoms and principles set out in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union (the ‘Charter’) and in the Treaties. Article 3 TEU further mandates the Union to promote the protection of the rights of the child. Article 10 TEU further states that the functioning of the Union shall be founded on representative democracy, that citizens are directly represented at Union level in the European Parliament and that citizens have the right to participate in the democratic life of the Union. Article 20 TFEU establishes Union citizenship and sets out important rights that citizens of the Union shall, inter alia, enjoy. |
Amendment 2
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (2) Culture and media and promotion and respect of Union values are all crucial components of a free, fair, diverse, inclusive and cohesive Union. Citizens’ participation and engagement, in due respect of Union values, constitutes the basis of the democratic life of the Union, with media playing a crucial role in shaping public opinion and free debate. Audiovisual works and all other forms of cultural and creative expressions, including cultural heritage, are essential to Europe’s diversity and to forging societal resilience and mutual understanding among European citizens and communities. | (2) Culture and media and the promotion and respect of Union values, are all crucial components of a free, fair, diverse, inclusive, gender-equal and cohesive Union. Citizens’ participation and engagement, in due respect of Union values, constitutes the basis of the democratic life of the Union, with media playing a crucial role in shaping public opinion, societal values linked to fundamental rights and free debate. In this respect, it is important to ensure and enhance the presence and balanced representation of women and men in media and the public discourse, and to fully include women and girls, who still face barriers to equal participation in democratic, cultural and media life. Audiovisual works and all other forms of cultural and creative expressions, including cultural heritage, are essential to Europe’s diversity, to forging societal resilience and mutual understanding among European citizens and communities, and to creating opportunities to advance gender equality, non-discrimination, and women’s rights. |
Amendment 3
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (3) The ‘AgoraEU’ Programme (the ‘Programme’) will provide a significant contribution to the attainment and realisation of these objectives, rights and values. | (3) The ‘AgoraEU’ Programme (the ‘Programme’) will provide a significant contribution to the attainment and realisation of these objectives, rights and values including by advancing gender equality and women’s rights across all strands of the Programme. |
Amendment 4
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (4) The Programme should succeed the Creative Europe Programme established by Regulation (EU) 2021/818 of the European Parliament and the Council3 and the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values Programme, established by Regulation (EU) 2021/692 of the European Parliament and of the Council4 . It should streamline various funding actions in support of media freedom and pluralism, fight against disinformation in support of the provision on information on Union affairs. Free and pluralistic media and civil society are among key watchdogs of the Union’s democratic systems, playing a crucial role for democratic resilience, and should be supported. The Programme should also support the cultural, creative and media sectors, harness the power of culture and cultural diversity, enhance the information space, and support the Union’s efforts to strengthen a rights-based, inclusive, equal and democratic society. This Regulation lays down an indicative financial envelope for the ‘AgoraEU’ Programme5 . For the purpose of this Regulation, current prices are calculated by applying a fixed 2% deflator. | (4) The Programme should succeed the Creative Europe Programme established by Regulation (EU) 2021/818 of the European Parliament and the Council3 and the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values Programme, established by Regulation (EU) 2021/692 of the European Parliament and of the Council4. It should streamline various funding actions in support of media freedom and pluralism, fight against disinformation in support of the provision on information on Union affairs. Free and pluralistic media and civil society are among key watchdogs of the Union’s democratic systems, playing a crucial role for democratic resilience, and should be supported. The Programme should also support the cultural, creative and media sectors, harness the power of culture and cultural diversity, enhance the information space, and support the Union’s efforts to strengthen a rights-based, inclusive, equal, gender-equal and democratic society. It should actively contribute to advance gender equality including by eliminating gender stereotypes in cultural, creative and media content, promoting equal opportunities for women in the cultural and creative sectors, narratives countering gender equality and gender-based disinformation, as well as combatting gender-based violence, online and offline. Free and pluralistic media and civil society are among key watchdogs of the Union’s democratic systems, playing a crucial role for democratic resilience, and therefore should be supported. Particular attention should be paid to women’s rights organisations and grassroots organisations, given their key role in promoting equality, protecting rights and strengthening democratic resilience. This Regulation lays down an indicative financial envelope for the ‘AgoraEU’ Programme5. For the purpose of this Regulation, current prices are calculated by applying a fixed 2% deflator. |
| 3 Regulation (EU) 2021/818 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 May 2021 establishing the Creative Europe Programme (2021 to 2027) and repealing Regulation (EU) No 1295/2013 (OJ L 189, 28.5.2021, p. 34, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2021/818/oj). | 3 Regulation (EU) 2021/818 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 May 2021 establishing the Creative Europe Programme (2021 to 2027) and repealing Regulation (EU) No 1295/2013 (OJ L 189, 28.5.2021, p. 34, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2021/818/oj). |
| 4 Regulation (EU) 2021/692 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 April 2021 establishing the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values Programme and repealing Regulation (EU) No 1381/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council and Council Regulation (EU) No 390/2014 (OJ L 156, 5.5.2021, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2021/692/oj). | 4 Regulation (EU) 2021/692 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 April 2021 establishing the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values Programme and repealing Regulation (EU) No 1381/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council and Council Regulation (EU) No 390/2014 (OJ L 156, 5.5.2021, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2021/692/oj). |
| 5 Where relevant, the support provided by the Programme shall accelerate or boost investments by addressing market failures or sub-optimal investment situations, in a proportionate manner, avoiding duplication or crowding out, and by incentivising private funding, and shall have Union added-value. | 5 Where relevant, the support provided by the Programme shall accelerate or boost investments by addressing market failures or sub-optimal investment situations, in a proportionate manner, avoiding duplication or crowding out, and by incentivising private funding, and shall have Union added-value. |
Amendment 5
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (5) To be effective, the Programme should take into account the specific nature and challenges of the different policy areas and sectors, their different target groups and their particular needs through targeted approaches. | (5) To be effective, the Programme should take into account the specific nature and challenges of the different policy areas and sectors, their different target groups and their particular needs through targeted approaches, including a gender mainstreaming approach. |
Amendment 6
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (6) In a fast changing economic, social and geopolitical environment, the recent experience has shown the need for a more flexible multiannual financial framework and its programmes. To that effect, and in line with the objectives of the ‘AgoraEU’ Programme, the funding will take due account of the evolving policy needs and Union’s priorities as identified in relevant documents published by the Commission, in Council conclusions and European Parliament resolutions while ensuring sufficient predictability for the implementation. | (6) In a fast changing economic, social and geopolitical environment, the recent experience has shown the need for a more flexible multiannual financial framework and its programmes. To that effect, and in line with the objectives of the ‘AgoraEU’ Programme, the funding will take due account of the evolving policy needs and Union’s priorities as identified in relevant documents published by the Commission, in Council conclusions and European Parliament resolutions while ensuring sufficient predictability for the implementation. The funding will be earmarked to provide predictable and adequate financial allocations targeted to areas such as combatting gender-based violence and promoting women’s rights and gender equality, as they are cornerstones of democratic societies. Funding will be earmarked to support civil society organisations, notably the ones working on advancing gender equality and countering gender-based violence and online violence. The implementation of the Programme should also be guided by gender mainstreaming principles, ensuring that gender equality is promoted across all strands and actions. |
Amendment 7
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (8) The cultural and creative sectors are however fragmented along national and linguistic lines in the Union. They also face multiple challenges, such as attacks on freedom of artistic expression, precarious working conditions, digital transformations with the rise of artificial intelligence, and the need to adapt to climate change. The Programme should help those sectors respond to such challenges, untap their full potential and project themselves resolutely into the future while ensuring the widest participation, including from local and regional actors, through various channels and formats. | (8) The cultural and creative sectors are however fragmented along national and linguistic lines in the Union. They also face multiple challenges, such as attacks on freedom of artistic expression, precarious working conditions, digital transformations with the rise of artificial intelligence, the need to adapt to climate change and to combat structural gender inequalities. The Programme should help those sectors respond to such challenges, untap their full potential and project themselves resolutely into the future while ensuring the widest participation, including from local and regional actors, through various channels and formats. |
Amendment 8
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (9) Europe's cultural heritage is a shared and priceless legacy facing budget constraints, natural and human-induced disasters, climate change, and regional conflicts. It is important to safeguard and preserve such a legacy, enhancing access and fostering a collective European identity. Digital preservation further ensures that future generations can learn from, appreciate, and draw inspiration from their cultural heritage. | (9) Europe's cultural heritage is a shared and priceless legacy facing budget constraints, natural and human-induced disasters, climate change, and regional conflicts. It is important to safeguard and preserve such a legacy, enhancing access and fostering a collective European identity based on the founding values of the Union as referred to in Article 2 TEU. Digital preservation further ensures that future generations can learn from, appreciate, and draw inspiration from their cultural heritage. |
Amendment 9
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 11
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (11) Europe's media sectors hold a unique position in our democracies, culture, and economies. They encompass, inter alia, content such as films, series, video games, news and information, immersive reality and multimedia, as well as services including theatrical exhibition, television and radio broadcasting, print and online publishing, advertising online videos and podcasts. The digital transformation, notably the rise of artificial intelligence, has accelerated media convergence, changed consumer behaviour, disrupted business and revenue models, as well as intellectual property management and exploitation. The Union should therefore help the Union’s media thrive, foster innovation and access to finance, promote cross fertilisation between news, audiovisual and other media sectors and support collaborations between different types of media entities across the Union. | (11) Europe's media sectors hold a unique position in our democracies, culture, and economies. They encompass, inter alia, content such as films, series, video games, news and information, immersive reality and multimedia, as well as services including theatrical exhibition, television and radio broadcasting, print and online publishing, advertising online videos and podcasts. The digital transformation, notably the rise of artificial intelligence, has accelerated media convergence, changed consumer behaviour, disrupted business and revenue models, as well as intellectual property management and exploitation. The Union should therefore help the Union’s media thrive, foster innovation and access to finance, promote cross fertilisation between news, audiovisual and other media sectors and support collaborations between different types of media entities across the Union while supporting the promotion of values based on anti-discrimination and equality through these activities. This may also include promoting gender equality and women’s entrepreneurship, access to finance, networks and business opportunities within this sector. |
Amendment 10
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (13) News media outlets and journalists across the Union are under increased pressure, notably due to the rise of global online platforms, shifting consumption habits and growing spread of disinformation. These challenges impact news revenues and distribution, undermining the viability and public trust in news media outlets, and limiting citizens’ access to diverse, professionally produced European journalistic content. The Union should support a viable, independent and diverse information ecosystem, protect journalists under threat, promote media freedom and pluralism, and reinforce the integrity of the information space, by promoting measures and enhancing cooperation aimed at tackling disinformation and supporting digital and media literacy, including for young people. | (13) News media outlets and journalists across the Union are under increased pressure, notably due to the rise of global online platforms, shifting consumption habits and growing spread of disinformation. These challenges impact news revenues and distribution, undermining the viability and public trust in news media outlets, and limiting citizens’ access to diverse, professionally produced European journalistic content. The Union should support a viable, independent and diverse information ecosystem, protect journalists under threat, promote media freedom and pluralism, and reinforce the integrity of the information space, by promoting measures and enhancing cooperation aimed at tackling disinformation, including gender-based disinformation, and supporting digital and media literacy, including for young people. Actions in the media and cultural sectors should promote equal opportunities, diversity and the balanced representation of women and men, including by addressing gender stereotypes. |
Amendment 11
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (15) The protection and promotion of fundamental rights contributes to the construction of a more democratic Union. Non-discrimination is a core principle of the Union enshrined in Article 19 TFEU and in Article 21 of the Charter. Working towards an equal and discrimination-free society contributes to untapping the potential of individuals in their diversity and to cultural, economic and social growth. It also helps to address important root causes of violence against vulnerable groups, which in turn is a frontal attack on equality. Therefore, the Programme should promote actions to address all forms of discrimination and intolerance, namely direct and indirect discrimination, paying attention to the specific forms of structural and intersectional discrimination, with a view to supporting relevant Union policy frameworks. The Programme should support actions to prevent and combat all forms of xenophobia and racism, antisemitism and anti-Muslim hatred, homophobia, biphobia, transphobia, interphobia, intolerance and discrimination based on gender identity, intolerance towards persons belonging to minorities including Roma, as well as hate speech. The Programme should also contribute to enabling the Union to deliver on the commitment taken as Party to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities adopted on 13 December 20066 to promote, protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities. | (15) The protection and promotion of fundamental rights contributes to the construction of a more democratic Union. Non-discrimination is a core principle of the Union enshrined in Article 19 TFEU and in Article 21 of the Charter. Working towards an equal and discrimination-free society contributes to untapping the potential of individuals in their diversity and to cultural, economic and social growth. It also helps to address important root causes of violence against groups in vulnerable situations, which in turn is a frontal attack on equality. Therefore, the Programme should promote actions to address all forms of discrimination and intolerance, namely direct and indirect discrimination, paying attention to the specific forms of structural and intersectional discrimination, with a view to supporting relevant Union policy frameworks. The Programme should, throughout all its activities, support actions to prevent and combat all forms of xenophobia and racism, antisemitism and anti-Muslim hatred, homophobia, lesbophobia, biphobia, transphobia, interphobia, intolerance and discrimination based on gender identity and sex characteristics, intolerance towards persons belonging to minorities including Roma, as well as hate speech. The Programme should also contribute to enabling the Union to deliver on the commitment taken as Party to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities adopted on 13 December 20066 to promote, protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities. The Programme should also ensure structured and continuous dialogue with civil society organisations, including those working for gender equality and LGBTIQ rights. |
| 6 OJ L 23, 27.01.2010, p. 35-36 | 6 OJ L 23, 27.01.2010, p. 35-36 |
Amendment 12
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 17
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (17) Gender equality is a fundamental right and an objective of the Union and should be supported by the Programme. Despite many achievements, significant challenges remain, which require to reinforce the Union’s commitment. This includes working towards freedom from gender-based violence, the highest standards of health, including in particular sexual and reproductive health, equal pay and economic empowerment, work-life balance and care, equal employment, career opportunities and working conditions, quality and inclusive education, political participation and equal representation, institutional mechanisms that deliver on women’s rights, actively tackling gender stereotypes and addressing intersectional discrimination. | (17) Gender equality is a fundamental right and a core objective of the Union. The promotion of gender equality and gender mainstreaming in all its activities is therefore a core task of the Union and a driver for social cohesion, and should be promoted in line with Article 8 TFEU across all strands of the Programme. Despite progress achieved, persistent structural gender inequalities, gender stereotypes, economic disparities and coordinated backsliding against women’s and LGBTIQ rights require reinforced and sustained commitment at Union level. The Roadmap for Women’s Rights and the Declaration of principles for a gender-equal society adopted by the Commission in 2025 require concrete implementation through effective policies and adequate financial support. This includes working towards freedom from gender-based violence, online and offline, the full enjoyment of women’s rights, the highest standards of health, in particular sexual and reproductive health and rights, including access to safe and legal abortion, affordable and modern contraception and promoting comprehensive, age-appropriate sexuality education. It should also support equal pay and economic empowerment, women's entrepreneurship and access to finance, as well as women led businesses, and promote work-life balance and care, equal employment, career opportunities and working conditions, quality and inclusive education, political participation and equal representation, institutional mechanisms that deliver on women’s rights, actively tackling gender stereotypes. |
Amendment 13
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 17 a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (17a) Particular attention should be paid to women facing intersectional discrimination, including women and girls with disabilities, migrant women, women with refugee status, women from diverse racial or ethnic backgrounds, women belonging to religious and linguistic minorities, and LGBTIQ+ groups. |
Amendment 14
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 18
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (18) Gender-based violence and violence against women, children, young persons and other groups at risk, such as LGBTIQ persons and persons with disabilities, constitute a serious violation of fundamental rights and continue to persist throughout the Union, in all social and economic contexts. Violence against women and persons belonging to other groups at risk is a violation of human rights and a frontal attack on equality. Thus, preventing and addressing such violence is a societal imperative and contributes to tackling such discrimination as well as addressing the impacts of violence, including on health. At the same time, ensuring a discrimination-free society will also help address the root causes of violence against vulnerable groups, since they are intrinsically linked. Therefore, the Programme should continue the longstanding Union effort in preventing, responding to and fighting violence at all levels as well as in protecting and supporting all direct and indirect victims and survivors of violence, building on the five consecutive generations of the Daphne programme and strand9 . The Programme should support the achievement of the objectives of the Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women adopted in Istanbul on 11 May 2011, the implementation of the Commission Recommendation on developing and strengthening integrated child protection systems in the best interests of the child10 , which protects children from any form of violence, as well as contribute to enabling the Union to deliver on the commitment taken as Party to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which protects persons with disabilities against any form of exploitation, violence and abuse. | (18) Gender-based violence and violence against women, children, young persons and other groups at risk, such as LGBTIQ persons, persons with disabilities, and those facing intersectional forms of discrimination, constitute a serious and the most widespread violation of fundamental rights, and continue to persist throughout the Union, in all social and economic contexts. Preventing and addressing such violence requires sustained, structural, long-term and adequately resourced financial support for women's rights organisations and services including organisations working on the ground, as frontline responders across Member States possessing the specialised expertise necessary to tackle the root causes and manifestations of gender-based violence. Violence against women and persons belonging to all groups at risk is a violation of human rights and a frontal attack on equality. Thus, preventing and addressing such violence is a societal imperative and contributes to tackling such discrimination as well as addressing the impacts of violence, including on mental and physical health. At the same time, ensuring a discrimination-free society will also help address the root causes of violence against groups in vulnerable situations since they are intrinsically linked. Furthermore, women and girls experience disproportionate exposure to online gender-based violence, including cyber stalking, cyber-harassment, non-consensual image-sharing, deepfakes and incitement to hatred or cyberbullying especially for young girls. Those risks affect their freedom of expression, political participation and mental health, and are therefore a specific focus of this Regulation. Therefore, the Programme should continue and strengthen the longstanding Union effort in preventing, responding to and fighting violence at all levels, in protecting and supporting all direct and indirect victims and survivors of violence, building on the five consecutive generations of the Daphne programme and strand9. |
| 9 Three consecutive generations of the Daphne programme ( OJ L 34, 9.2.2000, p. 1; OJ L 143, 30.4.2004, p. 1; OJ L 173, 3.7.2007, p. 19–26), and the results of the Daphne strands of the Rights, Equality and Citizenship Programme (OJ L 354, 28.12.2013, p. 62–72 ) and the CERV Programme (OJ L 156, 5.5.2021, p. 1–20). | 9 Three consecutive generations of the Daphne programme ( OJ L 34, 9.2.2000, p. 1; OJ L 143, 30.4.2004, p. 1; OJ L 173, 3.7.2007, p. 19–26), and the results of the Daphne strands of the Rights, Equality and Citizenship Programme (OJ L 354, 28.12.2013, p. 62–72 ) and the CERV Programme (OJ L 156, 5.5.2021, p. 1–20). |
| 10 C(2024) 2680 final (OJ L, 2024/1238, 14.5.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reco/2024/1238/oj). |
Amendment 15
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 18 a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (18a) The Programme should support the achievement of the objectives of the Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women adopted in Istanbul on 11 May 2011, with a strong focus on prevention, including from online forms of violence and emerging digital threats, the Directive (EU) 2024/1385 of the European Parliament and of the Council1a, the implementation of the Commission Recommendation on developing and strengthening integrated child protection systems in the best interests of the child1b, which protects children from any form of violence, as well as contribute to enabling the Union to deliver on the commitment taken as Party to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which protects persons with disabilities, including women and girls, against any form of exploitation, violence and abuse. | |
| 1a OJ L, 2024/1385, 24.5.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2024/1385/oj. | |
| 1b C(2024) 2680 final (OJ L, 2024/1238, 14.5.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reco/2024/1238/oj). |
Amendment 16
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 18 b (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (18b) Considering the still alarming number of victims of gender-based violence, it is important to continue all these activities with a distinct, protected and non-transferable budget allocation for the activities implementing the specific objective of preventing and combating all forms of gender-based violence under the Daphne strand. The programme should also pay particular attention to marginalised groups and women in situations of poverty, social exclusion, economic insecurity financial dependence as they face increased risk of gender-based violence and limited access to protection and justice, and ensure an intersectional perspective. |
Amendment 17
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 18 c (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (18c) In implementing the Programme, the Commission should make use of the expertise, data, indicators and methodological support developed by the European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE) in the areas of gender equality and gender-based violence. The use of those resources by applicants and beneficiaries should be encouraged in order to improve data comparability, strengthen monitoring and evaluation, and support evidence-based policies, including in relation to online forms of gender-based violence. |
Amendment 18
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 19
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (19) In accordance with Union acquis on equal treatment, the Member States have set up independent bodies for the promotion of equal treatment (‘equality bodies’), which play a key role in promoting equality and ensuring the effective application of equal treatment legislation. Further, the Programme should support the European Network of Equality Bodies (Equinet) composed of the national equality bodies as provided for by Council Directive (EU) 2024/149911 and Directive (EU) 2024/1500 of the European Parliament and of the Council12 , since Equinet is the only entity which ensures coordination of activities between equality bodies. This is of key importance for the effective implementation of Union anti-discrimination law in the Member States. | (19) In accordance with Union acquis on equal treatment, the Member States have set up independent bodies for the promotion of equal treatment (‘equality bodies’), which play a key role in promoting and advancing equality, including gender equality, and ensuring the effective application of equal treatment legislation. Further, the Programme should support the European Network of Equality Bodies (Equinet) composed of the national equality bodies as provided for by Council Directive (EU) 2024/149911 and Directive (EU) 2024/1500 of the European Parliament and of the Council12, since Equinet is the only entity which ensures coordination of activities between equality bodies. This is of key importance for the effective implementation of Union anti-discrimination law, including Union law related to gender equality, and for ensuring that women have equal opportunities in all spheres of social, economic, and political life, as well as for combating and preventing gender-based violence, in the Member States. |
| 11 Council Directive (EU) 2024/1499 of 7 May 2024 on standards for equality bodies in the field of equal treatment between persons irrespective of their racial or ethnic origin, equal treatment in matters of employment and occupation between persons irrespective of their religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation, equal treatment between women and men in matters of social security and in the access to and supply of goods and services, and amending Directives 2000/43/EC and 2004/113/EC (OJ L, 2024/1499, 29.5.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2024/1499/oj). | 11 Council Directive (EU) 2024/1499 of 7 May 2024 on standards for equality bodies in the field of equal treatment between persons irrespective of their racial or ethnic origin, equal treatment in matters of employment and occupation between persons irrespective of their religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation, equal treatment between women and men in matters of social security and in the access to and supply of goods and services, and amending Directives 2000/43/EC and 2004/113/EC (OJ L, 2024/1499, 29.5.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2024/1499/oj). |
| 12 Directive (EU) 2024/1500 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 May 2024 on standards for equality bodies in the field of equal treatment and equal opportunities between women and men in matters of employment and occupation, and amending Directives 2006/54/EC and 2010/41/EU (OJ L, 2024/1500, 29.5.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2024/1500/oj). | 12 Directive (EU) 2024/1500 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 May 2024 on standards for equality bodies in the field of equal treatment and equal opportunities between women and men in matters of employment and occupation, and amending Directives 2006/54/EC and 2010/41/EU (OJ L, 2024/1500, 29.5.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2024/1500/oj). |
Amendment 19
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 21
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (21) Encouraging citizens to play a more active role in democracy at Union level will strengthen European civil society and foster the development of a European identity. Civil society therefore needs to be supported in promoting, safeguarding and raising awareness of Union values and in contributing to the effective enjoyment of rights under Union law. When Union citizens participate in the democratic life of the Union, they contribute to making a reality representative democracy, a principle on which the functioning of the Union is founded and which gives concrete expression to the value of democracy enshrined in Article 2 TEU. | (21) Encouraging citizens to play a more active role in democracy at Union level will strengthen European civil society and foster the development of a European identity. Therefore, civil society, in particular women’s rights organisations, anti-racist organisations, human rights defenders and organisations defending LGBTIQ rights, notably those led by women, needs to be supported in promoting, safeguarding and raising awareness of Union values, and in contributing to the effective enjoyment of rights under Union law. When Union citizens participate in the democratic life of the Union, they contribute through a bottom-up approach, to strengthening representative democracy in practice, a principle on which the functioning of the Union is founded and which gives concrete expression to the value of democracy enshrined in Article 2 TEU. In particular, in Member States where civic space is shrinking or where civil society organisations face legal, administrative or financial restrictions, including for women rights organisations, the Programme should prioritise support aimed at safeguarding their independence, operational capacity and protection. The programme should support initiatives that promote balanced participation of women and men in democratic life, media, and civil society, including in leadership roles. |
Amendment 20
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 22
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (22) In order to bring the Union closer to its citizens and to foster democratic participation, a variety of actions and coordinated efforts are necessary. European citizenship and European identity should be developed and advanced by encouraging citizens’ understanding of the policy-making process, and by promoting civic engagement in the actions of the Union. Remembrance activities and critical reflection on Europe’s historical memory are necessary to make citizens aware of the common history, and to lay the foundation for a common future and shared values. Furthermore, supporting civil society organisations at local, regional, national and transnational level in the areas covered by the Programme will contribute to increasing citizens’ engagement in society and ultimately to their active involvement in the democratic life of the Union. At the same time, supporting activities that promote mutual understanding, intercultural dialogue, cultural and linguistic diversity, social inclusion and respect for others fosters a sense of belonging to the Union and of a common citizenship under a European identity, based on a shared understanding of our common European values, culture, history and heritage. | (22) In order to bring the Union closer to its citizens and to foster democratic participation, a variety of actions and coordinated efforts are necessary. European citizenship and European identity should be developed and advanced by ensuring citizens’ understanding of the policy-making process, and by promoting civic engagement in the actions of the Union. Remembrance activities and critical reflection on Europe’s historical memory, including the contribution of women’s and LGBTIQ organisations to the development of democracy and fundamental rights, are necessary to make citizens aware of the common history, and to lay the foundation for a common future and shared values. Furthermore, supporting civil society organisations at local, regional, national and transnational level in the areas covered by the Programme will contribute to increasing citizens’ engagement in society and ultimately to their active involvement in the democratic life of the Union. At the same time, supporting activities that promote mutual understanding, intercultural dialogue, cultural and linguistic diversity, social inclusion and respect for others fosters an inclusive sense of belonging to the Union and of a common citizenship under a European identity, based on a shared understanding of our common European values enshrined in Article 2 TEU, culture, history and heritage. |
Amendment 21
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 23
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (23) Civil society organisations, and other civic space actors, such as independent human rights bodies, equality bodies and Ombudspersons Institutions, play a vital role in contributing to the implementation of policy, encouraging people’s participation, holding institutions accountable, and driving positive change. The Programme should help ensure sufficient resources and an enabling environment for them to operate independently, freely, safely, and effectively. To this end, Union funding should complement efforts at national level by supporting, protecting, empowering and building their capacity, as emphasised in the European Parliament resolution of 19 April 201813 , as well as Council conclusions of 10 March 202314 and 7 March 202515 . Civil society also plays an important role in ensuring an effective implementation of Directive (EU) 2019/1937 of the European Parliament and of the Council16 by fostering a speak-up culture and a favourable environment for whistleblowers. | (23) Civil society organisations, and other civic space actors, such as independent human rights bodies, equality bodies and Ombudspersons Institutions, play a vital role in contributing to the implementation of policy, and the respect of fundamental rights, encouraging people’s participation, holding institutions accountable, and driving positive change, including, inter alia, through advocacy, strategic litigation, campaigning, communication and other watchdog activities. Considering the importance of enhancing the participation of civil society organisations and acknowledging the specific administrative and financial challenges they face, particularly for smaller entities, the Programme should help ensure sufficient resources and an enabling environment for them, to operate independently, freely, safely, and effectively. It should allow for rapid support for innovative local initiatives and the provision of financial support to third parties, while maintaining transparent, equitable, and participatory oversight. In order to ensure the independence and sustainability of civil society organisations, notably those active in promoting equality and fundamental rights, including those working on women’s rights, the Programme should ensure accessible and transparent support by providing for predictable and multiannual award of operating grants. The financing and awarding of grants should ensure appropriate transparency and accountability in the allocation and use of Union funding, in accordance with the principles of sound financial management, proportionality, and full respect for the values and objectives of the Programme. To this end, Union funding should complement efforts at national level, by supporting, protecting, empowering and building their capacity, as emphasised in the European Parliament resolution of 19 April 201813, as well as Council conclusions of 10 March 202314 and 7 March 202515. Civil society also plays an important role in ensuring an effective implementation of Directive (EU) 2019/1937 of the European Parliament and of the Council16 by fostering a speak-up culture and a favourable environment for whistleblowers. The Programme should also support actions designed to prevent and address strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs) as they are also often used to intimidate or silence women human rights defenders and organisations working on gender equality and women’s rights. |
| 13 2018/2619(RSP) (OJ C 390, 18.11.2019, p. 117–119, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal content/EN/TXT/?uri=oj:JOC_2019_390_R_0017) | 13 2018/2619(RSP) (OJ C 390, 18.11.2019, p. 117–119, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal content/EN/TXT/?uri=oj:JOC_2019_390_R_0017) |
| 14 ST-7388/23, Council Conclusions on the application of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights; The role of the civic space in protecting and promoting fundamental rights in the EU | 14 ST-7388/23, Council Conclusions on the application of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights; The role of the civic space in protecting and promoting fundamental rights in the EU |
| 15 ST-6878/25, Council Conclusions on the application of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights: funding to promote, protect and enforce fundamental rights | 15 ST-6878/25, Council Conclusions on the application of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights: funding to promote, protect and enforce fundamental rights |
| 16 Directive (EU) 2019/1937 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 October 2019 on the protection of persons who report breaches of Union law (OJ L 305, 26.11.2019, p. 17, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2019/1937/oj). | 16 Directive (EU) 2019/1937 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 October 2019 on the protection of persons who report breaches of Union law (OJ L 305, 26.11.2019, p. 17, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2019/1937/oj). |
Amendment 22
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 23 a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (23a) The importance of granting funding under the Programme to civil society organisations promoting gender equality, combatting gender-based violence and promoting women’s rights, including sexual and reproductive health and rights and the rights of LGBTIQ persons, in all Member States is emphasised and should be ensured, including where such organisations face political pressure, legal restrictions or funding cuts or attacks. All those activities seek to promote key values of the Union and ought therefore to be supported throughout the Union, without exception. The Programme should be accessible to civil society organisations working at local, regional, national and transnational levels including local grassroots civil society organisations. |
Amendment 23
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 23 b (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (23b) Taking into account the specific challenges of small regions, including outermost regions, where gender inequalities may be more pronounced, the Programme should provide for targeted calls to prevent compounded discrimination and ensure equal access to the programme funds. |
Amendment 24
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 25
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (25) At a time when European societies face challenges that affect democracies, such as raise of extremisms and intolerance, disinformation and foreign information manipulation and interference by hostile actors, it is crucial that Union values such as respect for fundamental rights, equality and democracy, continue to be actively cultivated, protected, promoted, enforced, and shared among citizens and peoples, so that those values remain at the heart of the Union project. A deterioration in their protection in any Member State can have detrimental effects on the Union as a whole. It is therefore crucial that this Programme contributes to protecting Union values, including respect for fundamental rights, equality and democracy. | (25) At a time when European societies face challenges that affect democracies, such as the rise of extremisms, discrimination, hate, and disinformation, which often disproportionately affect women and girls, as well as foreign information manipulation and interference, by hostile actors, it is crucial that Union values such as respect for fundamental rights, equality, gender equality and democracy, continue to be actively cultivated, protected, promoted, enforced, and shared among citizens and peoples, so that those values remain at the heart of the Union project. A deterioration in their protection in any Member State can have detrimental effects on the Union and all its citizens. It is therefore crucial that this Programme contributes to protecting and advancing Union values, including respect for fundamental rights, equality, including gender equality, and democracy. Particular attention should be paid to countering coordinated campaigns targeting gender equality, sexual and reproductive health and rights and LGBTIQ rights by anti-rights actors and networks, including disinformation campaigns and attempts to roll back established fundamental rights. Such coordinated attacks disproportionately affect women human rights and frontline defenders, journalists, academics and elected representatives, and aim to silence or intimidate those defending gender equality and fundamental rights. Therefore, it is crucial to promote equal rights, combat gender-based discrimination and violence, support a gender perspective in policies and programmes, and strengthen the full, equal and meaningful participation of women in political, economic and social life, as this is closely linked to democracy. |
Amendment 25
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 26
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (26) In light of increasing risks linked to natural hazards, climate and environmental disasters, health emergencies, technological accidents, evolving security threats, and other disruptions, it is essential to enhance the Union’s and Member States’ capability to anticipate, prepare for, and respond to crises. The Programme should therefore support citizens’ education and engagement on crisis preparedness thus enhancing societal resilience. | (26) In light of increasing risks linked to natural hazards, climate and environmental disasters, health emergencies, technological accidents, evolving security threats, and other disruptions, it is essential to enhance the Union’s and Member States’ capability to anticipate, prepare for, and respond to crises. The Programme should therefore support citizens’ education and engagement on crisis preparedness thus enhancing societal resilience. Crisis preparedness and response measures supported under the Programme should integrate a gender-sensitive and intersectional approach, recognising that women, girls and marginalised people, in particular those facing multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination, are disproportionately affected by crises, including climate-related disasters, armed conflicts and economic shocks. |
Amendment 26
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 27
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (27) Hence, the Programme should also support actions aiming at safeguarding and strengthening democracy in the Union, reinforcing public trust in democracy and democratic institutions, strengthening democratic preparedness and resilience, fostering citizens’ engagement, participation and awareness of common history and values, thereby supporting citizens’ exercise of their rights, including their electoral rights, in full respect of Member States’ competences in the organisation of elections. The Programme should also contribute to fostering critical thinking, civic participation and democracy through education as a lifelong effort, so that all citizens have the skills to recognise foreign information, manipulation and interference and disinformation. | (27) Hence, the Programme should also support actions aiming at safeguarding and strengthening democracy in the Union, reinforcing public trust in democracy and democratic institutions, strengthening democratic preparedness and resilience, fostering citizens’ engagement, participation and awareness of common history and values, thereby supporting citizens’ exercise of their rights, including their electoral rights, in full respect of Member States’ competences in the organisation of elections. Particular attention should be paid to promoting gender-balanced political representation in public and political life, and to addressing structural barriers preventing women, including young women and women belonging to groups of greater risk of discrimination or exclusion, from fully participating in democratic processes. The Programme should also support actions addressing gender-based violence, harassment and online abuse towards women with public visibility, such as politicians, journalists and human rights defenders, who are frequently targets of online violence, hate speech and harassment, which may lead to their withdrawal from public debate and political engagement, thereby weakening democratic processes. The Programme should also contribute to fostering critical thinking, civic participation and democracy through education as a lifelong effort, so that all citizens have the skills to recognise foreign information, manipulation and interference and disinformation, as well as the link between narratives attacking gender equality and policies and all threats to democracy. |
Amendment 27
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 34 a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (34a) The Commission should ensure overall consistency and coherence with the Union’s gender equality objectives, complementarity and synergies with the work of Union bodies, offices and agencies, in particular the European Institute for Gender Equality and the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights, and should take into account the work of other national and international actors in the areas covered by the Programme. |
Amendment 28
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 35
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (35) The Programme is to be implemented in accordance with Regulation (EU) [XXX]* of the European Parliament and of the Council [Performance] which establishes the rules for the expenditure tracking and the performance framework for the budget, including rules for ensuring a uniform application of the principles of ‘do no significant harm’ and gender equality referred to in Article 33(2), points (d) and (f), of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 respectively, rules for monitoring and reporting on the performance of Union programmes and activities, rules for establishing a Union funding portal, rules for the evaluation of the programmes, as well as other horizontal provisions applicable to all Union programmes such as those on information, communication and visibility, while taking into account the scope and nature of the activities and priorities. | (35) The Programme is to be implemented in accordance with Regulation (EU) [XXX]* of the European Parliament and of the Council [Performance] which establishes the rules for the expenditure tracking and the performance framework for the budget, including rules for ensuring a uniform application of the principles of ‘do no significant harm’ and gender equality and gender mainstreaming referred to in Article 33(2), points (d) and (f), of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 respectively, rules for monitoring and reporting on the performance of Union programmes and activities, rules for establishing a Union funding portal, rules for the evaluation of the programmes, as well as other horizontal provisions applicable to all Union programmes such as those on information, communication and visibility, while taking into account the scope and nature of the activities and priorities. In this context, a gender equality perspective should be integrated in the funding cycle design, implementation, monitoring, reporting, and evaluation and auditing and it should be ensured that none of the activities funded directly or indirectly harms gender equality. An interim and a final evaluation of the Programme should evaluate gender impacts to assess the extent to which it contributes to gender equality and to assess whether it is having unintended negative impacts on gender equality. The integration of gender equality across all strands of the Programme, including Culture and MEDIA+, is essential to ensure policy coherence and effective implementation of Union values. |
Amendment 29
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 35 a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (35a) While taking into account the different nature and size of the activities of the different strands of the Programme, it will be important for individual data collected by project beneficiaries to be disaggregated by sex/gender where appropriate. It is also important to provide information to applicants on how to take gender equality into account, including information on the use of gender mainstreaming tools such as gender impact assessments and measurable indicators to assess progress towards gender equality, including the participation of women and underrepresented groups in the Programme’s funding. |
Amendment 30
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 36
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (36) The Programme should also support the role of Programme Desks, which Member States have the possibility to establish, and which should provide guidance and assistance to applicants on funding opportunities and cross-border collaborations, contributing to the Programme’s outreach visibility and dissemination in accordance with Regulation (EU) [XXX]* of the European Parliament and of the Council [Performance]. Programme Desks should carry out their functions independently and without interference from public authorities in their decision making, and ought not to have any responsibility regarding the management of the programme25 . | (36) The Programme should also support the role of Programme Desks, which Member States have the possibility to establish, and which should provide guidance and assistance to applicants on funding opportunities and cross-border collaborations, contributing to the Programme’s outreach visibility and dissemination in accordance with Regulation (EU) [XXX]* of the European Parliament and of the Council [Performance]. Programme Desks should carry out their functions independently and without interference from public authorities in their decision-making, and ought not to have any responsibility regarding the management of the Programme25. Programme Desks should ensure accessible information for small, women-led organisations working on the ground, including those operating in remote or underserved areas. |
| 25 In order to promote the Programme at national level, provide relevant information on the various types of financial support available under Union policy, and assist operators to apply for support under the Programme, the Programme shall support the establishment of Desks in participating countries. The Desks shall implement their activities aiming to enhance outreach, visibility and dissemination of the Programme results in accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) 202X/XXXX which establishes the rules for the expenditure tracking and the performance framework for the budget, including the rules applicable to all Union programmes regarding information, communication and visibility obligations, including in particular obligations for beneficiaries and implementing partners | 25 In order to promote the Programme at national level, provide relevant information on the various types of financial support available under Union policy, and assist operators to apply for support under the Programme, the Programme shall support the establishment of Desks in participating countries. The Desks shall implement their activities aiming to enhance outreach, visibility and dissemination of the Programme results in accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) 202X/XXXX which establishes the rules for the expenditure tracking and the performance framework for the budget, including the rules applicable to all Union programmes regarding information, communication and visibility obligations, including in particular obligations for beneficiaries and implementing partners |
Amendment 31
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 40
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (40) This Regulation establishes the Programme for 2028 to 2034, which succeeds to the Programmes established by Regulations (EU) 2021/692 and (EU) 2021/818 for 2021 to 2027. Regulations (EU) 2021/692 and (EU) 2021/818 should therefore be repealed, | (40) This Regulation establishes the Programme for 2028 to 2034, which succeeds the Programmes established by Regulations (EU) 2021/692 and (EU) 2021/818 for 2021 to 2027. Regulations (EU) 2021/692 and (EU) 2021/818 should therefore be repealed, |
Amendment 32
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (1) The general objectives of the Programme are to promote cultural and linguistic diversity and heritage, to increase the competitiveness of the cultural and creative sectors, in particular the media and audiovisual industries, to safeguard artistic and media freedom, and to protect and promote equality, active citizenship, rights and values as enshrined in the Treaties and in the Charter, thereby enhancing democratic participation and societal resilience. | (1) The general objectives of the Programme are to promote cultural and linguistic diversity and heritage, to increase the competitiveness of the cultural and creative sectors, in particular the media and audiovisual industries, to safeguard artistic and media freedom, and to protect and promote inclusion, equality, gender equality, diversity, participation, active citizenship, rights and values as enshrined in the Treaties and in the Charter, thereby enhancing democratic participation and societal resilience. The Programme shall promote women’s rights and gender equality, the empowerment of women and inclusive societies, actively combat gender stereotypes and structural discrimination. It shall also promote the effective participation of women in all their diversity, LGBTIQ people, persons with disabilities, persons belonging to minorities, and socially marginalised groups, including through access to funding under this programme, and integrate an intersectional perspective. |
Amendment 33
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point a – point i
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| i. contribute to cross-border cultural creation, cooperation, participation and accessibility, and cross-border circulation of a diversity of cultural works, while strengthening the social, economic and international dimensions of the cultural and creative sectors (‘culture’); | i. contribute to cross-border cultural creation, cooperation, participation and accessibility, and cross-border circulation of a diversity of cultural works, and promoting and respecting gender equality and the participation of women and marginalised groups while strengthening the social, economic and international dimensions of the cultural and creative sectors, and advancing the Union's founding values (‘culture’); |
Amendment 34
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point b – point ii
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| ii. contribute to a free, viable and diverse Union information ecosystem, notably by supporting free and independent journalism and news media, enhancing citizens’ access to trustworthy information and tackling disinformation (‘news’); | ii. contribute to a free, viable, inclusive, safe and diverse Union information ecosystem, notably by supporting free and independent journalism and news media, enhancing citizens’ access to trustworthy information and tackling disinformation, including gender-based disinformation, while thoroughly advancing the Union's founding values, including gender equality (‘news’); |
Amendment 35
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point c – point i
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| i. contribute to protecting and promoting fundamental rights, equality and non-discrimination and Union citizen’s rights enshrined in the Treaties including free movement of citizens, and empowering civil society (‘rights, equality, citizens and civil society’); | i. contribute to protecting, promoting and advancing fundamental rights, equality, including gender equality, non-discrimination, and Union citizen’s rights enshrined in the Treaties and in the Charter including free movement of citizens, empowering civil society (‘rights, equality, gender equality, citizens and civil society’); |
Amendment 36
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point c – point ii
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| ii. contribute to fighting against gender-based violence, violence against children and other groups at risk of such violence (‘Daphne’); | deleted |
Amendment 37
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point c – point iii
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| iii. contribute to enhancing democratic participation and upholding the rule of law (‘democratic participation and rule of law’). | iii. contribute to enhancing democratic participation and engagement, promoting inclusivity and gender-balanced representation, and upholding the rule of law (‘democratic participation and rule of law’); |
Amendment 38
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point c a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (ca) The Daphne strand shall: | |
| i. contribute to preventing and combating all forms of gender-based violence, including online violence, as well as violence against children, and violence against other groups at risk and to ensuring protection and support for victims and survivors; (‘zero-tolerance to gender-based violence’); |
Amendment 39
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 3
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (3) To maximise impact and enhance synergies across the strands referred to in paragraph 2, the Programme shall support cross-cutting and horizontal activities contributing to the general objective referred to in paragraph 1, notably by developing synergies between the cultural, media and civic spheres and promoting cross-sectoral collaboration and innovation. | (3) To maximise impact and enhance synergies across the strands referred to in paragraph 2, the Programme shall support cross-cutting and horizontal activities contributing to the general objective referred to in paragraph 1, notably by developing synergies between the cultural, media and civic spheres and promoting cross-sectoral collaboration and innovation, while preserving the distinct identity and autonomy of each of the four strands. The objective of fostering synergies among the objectives of AgoraEU shall, however, not prejudice, disadvantage or otherwise limit the eligibility or assessment of project proposals that focus exclusively on a single objective of AgoraEU. |
Amendment 40
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point a
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (a) fostering cross-border creation, cooperation and exchanges across various formats, including through the mobility of artists and cultural and creative professionals, artistic residencies, as well as partnerships between organisations of all sizes; | (a) fostering cross-border creation, cooperation and exchanges across various formats, including through the mobility of artists and cultural and creative professionals, artistic residencies, as well as partnerships between organisations of all sizes while addressing gender inequalities in this regard; |
Amendment 41
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point b
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (b) improving access to and participation in culture and cultural heritage for all, notably for young people, and strengthening social resilience and social cohesion, in particular intergenerational fairness, equality and diversity, through cultural engagement; | (b) improving access to and participation in culture and cultural heritage for all, notably for young people, and strengthening social resilience and social cohesion, in particular intergenerational fairness, equality and diversity, through cultural engagement, while addressing gender inequalities in the cultural sector; |
Amendment 42
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point e
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (e) promoting cultural policy development through cooperation and exchange of good practices at Union level, and improving evidence base through enhanced data collection, analysis, and pilot actions; | (e) promoting cultural policy development through cooperation and exchange of good practices at Union level, and improving evidence base through enhanced data collection, analysis, including sex/gender disaggregated data, and pilot actions; |
Amendment 43
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point f a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (fa) promoting gender equality and non-discrimination by using culture and cultural expression as tools for awareness-raising, dialogue and societal change, by encouraging the cultural and creative sectors to address gender stereotypes and structural gender inequalities and hate speech and by supporting inclusion and equal representation of women and groups in vulnerable situations across the cultural and creative sectors; |
Amendment 44
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 2
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| The implementation of the ‘Culture’ specific objective shall be carried out with full respect of artistic freedom and diversity of cultural expressions, and contribute to the improvement of working conditions for artists and cultural and creative professionals. | The implementation of the ‘Culture’ specific objective shall be carried out with full respect of artistic freedom and diversity of cultural expressions, and contribute to the fair working conditions for artists and cultural and creative professionals. |
Amendment 45
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point c
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (c) building audiences for European audiovisual works, including through a network of European cinemas, festivals and outreach campaigns, and addressing in particular young Europeans and underserved communities; | (c) building audiences for European audiovisual works, including through a network of European cinemas, festivals and outreach campaigns, and addressing in particular young Europeans, women and girls, and underserved communities; |
Amendment 46
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point d
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (d) supporting the development and prototyping of European video games and immersive content, including through market testing, promotion and discoverability audience-driven strategies, and distribution across all platforms; | (d) supporting the development and prototyping of European video games, in particular video games that contribute to promoting gender equality, and immersive content, including through market testing, promotion and discoverability audience-driven strategies, and distribution across all platforms; |
Amendment 47
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point e
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (e) enhancing talent development, supporting access to finance, business-to-business exchanges and networking, adoption of innovative tools and business models and cross-media intellectual property exploitation strategies, particularly in response to creative, market and technological shifts; | (e) enhancing talent development, including by promoting women in leadership positions and decision-making roles in the audiovisual sector, facilitating access to finance, business-to-business exchanges and networking, adoption of innovative tools and business models and cross-media intellectual property exploitation strategies, particularly in response to creative, market and technological shifts, with a particular focus on supporting gender equality, women’s entrepreneurship and access to business opportunities; |
Amendment 48
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point e a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (ea) support an inclusive and safe media environment by promoting gender equality, combating online violence and gender-based disinformation, addressing gender stereotypes in media content, and promoting the inclusion of gender-equality perspectives, women empowerment and representation of women and groups in vulnerable situations in the audiovisual, and gaming sectors; |
Amendment 49
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point a
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (a) protecting news media outlets and journalists, especially where they face threats, monitoring, assessing and addressing risks to media freedom and pluralism in the internal market and promoting journalistic and editorial standards; | (a) protecting news media outlets, journalists, and other media professionals, especially where they face offline and online threats, including harassment, hate speech, cyberstalking, and intimidation, while paying particular attention to women journalists, who are more at risk of digital gender-based violence, monitoring, assessing and addressing risks to media freedom and pluralism in the internal market, with a view of safeguarding the integrity of the public discourse and supporting democratic values, and promoting journalistic and editorial standards; |
Amendment 50
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point d
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (d) enhancing cooperation and promoting measures aimed at monitoring and safeguarding the online information space, including detecting and combating disinformation and foreign information manipulation and interference, thereby contributing to greater resilience across the Union; | (d) enhancing cooperation and promoting measures aimed at monitoring and safeguarding the online information space, including detecting and combating disinformation, including gender-based disinformation and narratives opposing gender equality and attacking women, LGBTIQ persons and equality policies, and foreign information manipulation and interference, thereby contributing to greater resilience across the Union; |
Amendment 51
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point e
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (e) promoting digital and media literacy activities in order to enable citizens, including young people, to use and develop a critical understanding of the information ecosystem; | (e) promoting digital and media literacy activities, including awareness-raising on harmful gender stereotypes, gender based violence and cyberbullying and on how to recognise and combat them, in order to enable citizens, including young people, to use and develop a critical understanding of the information ecosystem and understand its impacts on democratic participation and democratic resilience; |
Amendment 52
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 1 – point a
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (a) promoting equality, and preventing and fighting against discrimination on the grounds of sex, racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation, and all forms of racism and intolerance; | (a) promoting equality, and preventing and fighting structural inequalities and discrimination on the grounds of sex, gender, racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation, gender identity, sex characteristics, and all forms of racism and intolerance, including xenophobia, homophobia, lesbophobia, biphobia, transphobia, interphobia and addressing multiple and intersectional discrimination; |
Amendment 53
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 1 – point b
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (b) promoting gender equality, gender mainstreaming and women’s empowerment, and protecting and promoting women’s full enjoyment of rights; | (b) promoting gender equality, gender mainstreaming and women’s empowerment, and protecting and promoting women’s full enjoyment of rights, including their sexual and reproductive health and rights; |
Amendment 54
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 1 – point d
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (d) protecting and promoting the rights of the child; | (d) protecting and promoting the rights of the child, including in the online environment; |
Amendment 55
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 1 – point f
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (f) nurturing a vibrant civic space by building the capacity of, and providing financial support to, civil society organisations, human rights defenders, and other relevant actors, which are active at all levels in protecting, promoting and raising citizen’s awareness of rights enshrined in the Treaty, promoting EU democratic resilience, non-discrimination and equality and more broadly Union values, such as the respect for fundamental rights, the rule of law, democracy and in protecting and promoting respect of the Charter. | (f) nurturing a vibrant civic space by building the capacity of, and providing accessible, predictable, sustainable and multiannual financial support to, civil society organisations, human rights defenders and other relevant actors, in particular women’s rights organisations, women-led organisations, and grassroots organisations, are active at all levels in protecting and promoting the rights enshrined in the Treaty and the Charter, and in safeguarding Union values, including democracy, the rule of law, equality, including gender equality, and non-discrimination. |
Amendment 56
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| Article 8 | deleted |
| Daphne | |
| Within the CERV+ strand, the ‘Daphne’ specific objective shall focus on: | |
| (a) preventing, responding to and fighting at all levels all forms of gender-based violence against women and girls, domestic violence, and violence against children, young and older people, LGBTIQ people, persons with disabilities and other groups at risk; | |
| (b) protecting and supporting all direct and indirect victims and survivors of violence as referred in point (a); | |
| (c) supporting the achievement of the objectives of the Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence in the Union. |
Amendment 57
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 1 – point a
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (a) protecting and promoting Union citizenship rights as well as citizens’ participation and engagement in the democratic and civic life of the Union, and support open, resilient, rights-based, and equal societies based on the rule of law; | (a) protecting and promoting Union citizenship rights as well as citizens’ participation and engagement, in the democratic and civic life of the Union, including by promoting women’s equal participation and balanced representation in political and public life, and support open, resilient, rights-based, and gender-equal and non-discriminatory societies based on the rule of law; |
Amendment 58
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 1 – point c
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (c) promoting civic awareness and better understanding of the Union, its common history, memory and diversity to foster mutual understanding and tolerance. | (c) promoting civic awareness and better understanding of the Union, its common history, memory and diversity, including through the contribution of women’s rights and LGBTIQ movements to Union values, such as democracy, fundamental rights and equality to foster mutual understanding and tolerance. |
Amendment 59
Proposal for a regulation
Chapter IV a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| IVa Daphne strand |
Amendment 60
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| Article 9a | |
| Daphne Strand | |
| Within the Daphne strand, the “Zero tolerance to gender-based violence” specific objective shall focus on: | |
| (a) preventing, responding to and combating at all levels all forms of gender-based violence, including online forms of harassment, cyberstalking, sexual exploitation and the non-consensual dissemination of intimate content, whether authentic or digitally manipulated, economic and emerging forms of digital violence, domestic violence, and all forms of violence against women and girls, children, young and older people, LGBTIQ people, persons with disabilities and other groups at risk; | |
| (b) protecting and supporting all direct and indirect victims and survivors of violence as referred in point (a), including women human rights defenders and women in public life targeted because of their gender, and through the support to support services and other grassroots organisations with specialised expertise, providing direct assistance to survivors of violence and gender-based violence through accessible, gender-sensitive and trauma-informed services; | |
| (c) supporting the achievement of the objectives of the Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence in the Union, and the Directive (EU) 2024/13851a, including through measures for prevention, protection, prosecution and through coordinated policies; | |
| (d) promoting awareness-raising, education and prevention measures to combat all forms of gender-based violence and gender stereotypes, including on the central role of consent in sexual relationships and gender violence in digital environments; | |
| (e) supporting the collection of comparable data, research and exchange of best practices on gender-based violence, including its online dimension. | |
| 1a OJ L, 2024/1385, 24.5.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2024/1385/oj. |
Amendment 61
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point a
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (a) cross-sectoral cooperation and innovation across the cultural, media and civic fields, and protection of the integrity of the public discourse, thereby bolstering democratic resilience, societal preparedness and cultural and civic engagement; | (a) cross-sectoral cooperation and innovation across the cultural, media and civic fields, and protection of the integrity of the public discourse, including protection against gender-based disinformation thereby bolstering democratic resilience, societal preparedness and cultural and civic engagement; |
Amendment 62
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point b
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (b) a responsible use of innovative tools and content technologies, notably Artificial Intelligence, as well as skills development and capacity-building through cross sectoral approaches; | (b) a responsible, ethical, transparent and non-discriminatory use of innovative tools and content technologies, notably Artificial Intelligence, ensuring that such technologies not only do not reproduce or amplify gender bias or discrimination, but contribute to tackle them, as well as skills development and capacity-building through cross sectoral approaches; |
Amendment 63
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point c
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (c) actions for the development, implementation, and monitoring of relevant Union legislation and policy in the culture, media and civic fields, including, where applicable, through cooperation among national authorities and stakeholders. | (c) actions for the development, implementation, and monitoring of relevant Union legislation and policy, including monitoring of its gender equality impact and alignment with Union values as enshrined in the Treaties, the Charter and the applicable international human rights conventions, in the culture, media and civic fields, including, where applicable, through cooperation among national authorities and stakeholders; |
Amendment 64
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – point d a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (da) cross-sectoral actions and programmes to promote and advance gender equality, women's rights and gender mainstreaming including actively tackling gender stereotypes and narratives opposing gender equality, using systematically gender impact assessments, collecting gender-disaggregated data and addressing multiple and intersectional discrimination; |
Amendment 65
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 2
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| The financing of cross-cutting and horizontal priorities and activities shall be determined by their nature and scope. | The financing of cross-cutting and horizontal priorities and activities shall be determined by their nature and scope. The objective of fostering synergies among the objectives of AgoraEU shall however not prejudice, disadvantage or otherwise limit the eligibility or assessment of project proposals that focus exclusively on a single objective of AgoraEU. |
Amendment 66
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 1 a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 1a. Within the amount of the financial envelope set out in paragraph 1, at least 16 % shall be allocated to support activities to prevent and combat at all levels all forms of gender-based violence (Daphne strand); |
Amendment 67
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 1 b (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 1b. Within the amount of the financial envelope set out for the CERV+ strand, at least 10 % shall be allocated to activities promoting gender equality, gender mainstreaming and women’s empowerment, and protecting and promoting women’s full enjoyment of rights; |
Amendment 68
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 1 c (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 1c. Within the amount of the financial envelope set out for Article 7, Article 8 (CERV+ strand) and Article 9 (Daphne strand)), at least 60 % shall be allocated to support activities carried out by civil society organisations. |
Amendment 69
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| Article 11a | |
| Funding modalities | |
| 1. The Programme shall provide for the predictable and stable funding to civil society organisations which are involved in the development, implementation and enforcement of Union legislation and policy, and which are primarily active in the areas covered by CERV+ and Daphne strands as set out in Articles 7, 8 and 9, including though the award of operating grants to ensure their independence and sustainability, in accordance with Article 183(2)(b) of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509, while maintaining transparent, equitable, and participatory oversight. | |
| 2. The Programme shall provide the possibility for financial support to third parties, to ensure the accessibility of the CERV+ and Daphne strands for civil society organisations at local, regional, national and transnational levels, including local grassroots civil society organisations. |
Amendment 70
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 1
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 1. Member States, Union institutions, bodies and agencies, third countries, international organisations, international financial institutions, or other third parties, may make additional financial or non-financial contributions to the Programme. Additional financial contributions shall constitute external assigned revenue within the meaning of Article 21(2), points (a), (d), or (e), or Article 21(5) of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509. | 1. Member States, Union institutions, bodies and agencies, third countries, international organisations, international financial institutions, or other third parties, may make additional financial or non-financial contributions to the Programme. Such additional contributions shall be implemented in line with the objectives of the Programme, including its commitment to gender equality and applying gender mainstreaming. Additional financial contributions shall constitute external assigned revenue within the meaning of Article 21(2), points (a), (d), or (e), or Article 21(5) of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509. |
Amendment 71
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 2
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 2. Resources allocated to Member States under shared management may, at their request, be made available to the Programme. The Commission shall implement those resources directly or indirectly in accordance with Article 62(1), point (a) or (c), of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509. They shall be additional to the amount referred to in Article 11(1) of this Regulation. Those resources shall be used for the benefit of the Member State concerned. Where the Commission has not entered into a legal commitment under direct or indirect management for additional amounts thus made available to the Programme, the corresponding uncommitted amounts may, at the request of the Member State concerned, be transferred back to one or more respective source programmes or their successors. | 2. Resources allocated to Member States under shared management may, at their request, be made available to the Programme. The Commission shall implement those resources directly or indirectly in accordance with Article 62(1), point (a) or (c), of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509. They shall be additional to the amount referred to in Article 11(1) of this Regulation. Those resources shall be used for the benefit of the Member State concerned. Their use shall comply with Union values referred to in Article 2 TEU, including gender equality and non-discrimination. Where the Commission has not entered into a legal commitment under direct or indirect management for additional amounts thus made available to the Programme, the corresponding uncommitted amounts may, at the request of the Member State concerned, be transferred back to one or more respective source programmes or their successors. |
Amendment 72
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 2
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 2. Award procedures under the Programme may be jointly conducted under direct or indirect management with Member States, Union institutions, bodies and agencies, third countries, international organisations, international financial institutions, or other third parties (‘partners to the joint award procedure’), provided the protection of the financial interests of the Union is ensured. Such procedures shall be subject to a single set of rules and lead to the conclusion of single legal commitments. For that purpose, the partners to the joint award procedure may make resources available to the Programme in accordance with Article 12 of this Regulation, or the partners may be entrusted with the implementation of the award procedure, where applicable in accordance with Article 62(1), point (c), of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509. In joint award procedures, representatives of the partners to the joint award procedure may also be members of the evaluation committee referred to in Article 153(3) of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509. | 2. Award procedures under the Programme may be jointly conducted under direct or indirect management with Member States, Union institutions, bodies and agencies, third countries, international organisations, international financial institutions, or other third parties (‘partners to the joint award procedure’), provided the protection of the financial interests of the Union is ensured. Such procedures shall be subject to a single set of rules and lead to the conclusion of single legal commitments. For that purpose, the partners to the joint award procedure may make resources available to the Programme in accordance with Article 12 of this Regulation, or the partners may be entrusted with the implementation of the award procedure, where applicable in accordance with Article 62(1), point (c), of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509. In joint award procedures, representatives of the partners to the joint award procedure may also be members of the evaluation committee, promoting gender parity, referred to in Article 153(3) of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509. |
Amendment 73
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 7
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 7. For the purposes of Article 153(3) of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509, the evaluation committee may be composed partially or fully of independent external experts. | 7. For the purposes of Article 153(3) of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509, the evaluation committee may be composed partially or fully of independent external experts. The composition of evaluation committees shall promote gender parity. |
Amendment 74
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 – paragraph 8
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 8. Entities applying for a funding under the Creative Europe - Culture strand of the Programme that have received over 50% of their annual revenue from public sources over the last two years, shall be considered as having the necessary financial, professional and administrative capacity to carry out activities under the Programme. They shall not be required to present further documentation to demonstrate that capacity. | 8. Entities applying for a funding under the Creative Europe - Culture strand of the Programme that have received over 50 % of their annual revenue from public sources over the last two years, shall be considered as having the necessary financial, professional and administrative capacity to carry out activities under the Programme. They shall not be required to present further documentation to demonstrate that capacity. The assessment of financial capacity shall be carried out in a non-discriminatory manner and ensure equal opportunities for women-led organisations. |
Amendment 75
Proposal for a regulation
Article 15 a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| Article 15a | |
| Types of action | |
| Actions contributing to the achievement of a specific objective set out in Article 3 may receive funding under this Regulation. In particular, activities listed in Annex I shall be eligible for funding. |
Amendment 76
Proposal for a regulation
Article 16 – paragraph 1
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 1. Eligibility criteria shall be set to support achievement of the objectives laid down in Article 3, in accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 and shall apply to all award procedures under the Programme. | 1. Eligibility criteria shall be set to support achievement of the objectives laid down in Article 3, including gender equality and other cross-cutting priorities referred to in Article 10, in accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 and shall apply to all award procedures under the Programme. |
Amendment 77
Proposal for a regulation
Article 16 – paragraph 6 a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 6a. Small regions, like the outermost regions, where the disparities on the gender equality can be higher, may be entitled to have specific calls to avoid a double discrimination and promote equal access to the Programme. |
Amendment 78
Proposal for a regulation
Article 17 – paragraph 1
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| The Programme shall be implemented by work programmes referred to in Article 110 Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509. The work programmes shall set out, where applicable, the activities and related amounts of Union support to be implemented through the ECF InvestEU instrument. | The Programme shall be implemented by work programmes referred to in Article 110 Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509. The work programmes shall specify how the objectives set out in Article 3 of this Regulation and the cross-cutting priorities referred to in Article 10 of this Regulation, including gender equality, are implemented. The work programmes shall set out, where applicable, the activities and related amounts of Union support to be implemented through the ECF InvestEU instrument. |
Amendment 79
Proposal for a regulation
Annex I (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| ANNEX I | |
| ACTIVITIES SUPPORTED BY THE PROGRAMME | |
| The general and specific objectives of the Programme set out in Article 3 shall be pursued in particular by supporting the following activities: | |
| (1) awareness raising, promotion and dissemination of information within the areas and objectives covered by the Programme in order to improve knowledge of rights and values and related policies; | |
| (2) mutual learning and exchange of good practices among stakeholders to improve knowledge and mutual understanding; | |
| (3) analytical and monitoring activities to improve the understanding of the situation in the Member States and at Union level in the areas covered by the Programme as well as to improve the implementation of Union law, policies and values within the Member States, such as the collection of data and statistics; the development of common methodologies and, where appropriate, of indicators or of benchmarks; studies, research, analyses and surveys; evaluations; impact assessment; and the development and publication of guides, reports and educational material; | |
| (4) training relevant stakeholders to improve knowledge of the policies and rights in the areas covered by the Programme; | |
| (5) developing and maintaining information and communication technology tools; | |
| (6) supporting civil society organisations and non-profit stakeholders active in the areas covered by the Programme: | |
| (a) to increase their capacity to react, and to ensure adequate access for all citizens to their services, counselling activities and support activities; | |
| (b) to carry out advocacy activities to promote rights, thereby also strengthening the protection and promotion of Union values and respect for the rule of law, and contributing to democratic dialogue, transparency and good governance, including in cases of shrinking space for civil society; | |
| (7) increasing awareness among citizens, especially young people, of European culture, cultural heritage, identity and history, including with regard to totalitarian and authoritarian regimes and other defining episodes in recent European history, so as to strengthen remembrance and European citizens’ commitment to the Union and to encourage tolerance, mutual understanding, intercultural dialogue and respect for diversity; | |
| (8) bringing together citizens of different nationalities and cultures by giving them the opportunity to participate in town-twinning activities and civil society projects, thus creating the conditions for an improved bottom-up approach and fostering civic and democratic engagement; | |
| (9) encouraging and facilitating active and inclusive participation in the construction of a more democratic Union, as well as raising awareness of rights and values through the provision of support to civil society organisations; | |
| (10) developing the capacity of European networks to promote and further develop Union law, values, policy goals and strategies; | |
| (11) financing technical and organisational support for the implementation of Regulation (EU) 2019/788, thereby underpinning the exercise by citizens of the right to launch and support European citizens’ initiatives; | |
| (12) enhancing knowledge of the Programme and dissemination and transferability of its results, and fostering outreach, including by setting up and supporting Programme contact points. |
Annex: declaration of input 4 paragraphs
Pursuant to Article 8 of Annex I to the Rules of Procedure, the rapporteur for opinion declares that she included in her opinion input on matters pertaining to the subject of the file that she received, in the preparation of the draft opinion, from the following interest representatives falling within the scope of the Interinstitutional Agreement on a mandatory transparency register1, or from the following representatives of public authorities of third countries, including their diplomatic missions and embassies:
| 1. Interest representatives falling within the scope of the Interinstitutional Agreement on a mandatory transparency register |
| Centre for reproductive rights End FGM European Network Equipop European Disability Forum (EDF) European Lesbian Community (EL*C) European Parliamentary Forum for Sexual & Reproductive Rights (EPF) Forbidden Colours International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF) Organisation Intersex International Europe e.V. (OII Europe) RECLAIM The European Roma Rights Centre (ENAR) The International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer & Intersex (LGBTQI) Youth & Student Organisation (IGLYO) Transgender Europe (TGEU) Women Against Violence Europe Network (WAVE) |
| 2. Representatives of public authorities of third countries, including their diplomatic missions and embassies |
| None. |
The list above is drawn up under the exclusive responsibility of the rapporteur for opinion.
Where natural persons are identified in the list by their name, by their function or by both, the rapporteur for opinion declares that she has submitted to the natural persons concerned the European Parliament’s Data Protection Notice No 484 (https://www.europarl.europa.eu/data-protect/index.do), which sets out the conditions applicable to the processing of their personal data and the rights linked to that processing.
Procedure pages
How the committees handled the text, and how their members voted on it.
Procedure – committee asked for opinion 1 paragraph
| Title | Establishing the ‘AgoraEU’ programme for the period 2028-2034, and repealing Regulations (EU) 2021/692 and (EU) 2021/818 | |
| References | COM(2025)0550 – C10-0173/2025 – 2025/0550(COD) | |
| Committee(s) responsible Date announced in plenary | CULT 23.10.2025 | LIBE 23.10.2025 |
| Opinion by Date announced in plenary | FEMM 23.10.2025 | |
| Rapporteur for opinion Date appointed | Mélissa Camara 27.1.2026 | |
| Discussed in committee | 24.3.2026 | 5.5.2026 |
| Date adopted | 23.6.2026 | |
| Result of final vote | +: –: 0: | 28 9 0 |
Final vote by roll call by the committee asked for opinion 3 paragraphs
28 · For
- EPP
- Csaba Bogdán, Michalis Hadjipantela, Elżbieta Katarzyna Łukacijewska, Eleonora Meleti, Mirosława Nykiel, Sirpa Pietikäinen, Giusi Princi, Michał Wawrykiewicz
- Patriots
- Mélanie Disdier, Séverine Werbrouck
- Renew
- Abir Al-Sahlani, Valérie Devaux, Jana Toom, Lucia Yar
- S&D
- Sofie Eriksson, Lina Gálvez, Elisabeth Grossmann, Hana Jalloul Muro, Matjaž Nemec, Joanna Scheuring-Wielgus, Cecilia Strada, Marko Vešligaj
- The Left
- Hanna Gedin, Irene Montero, Carolina Morace
- Greens
- Mélissa Camara, Alexandra Geese, Benedetta Scuderi
9 · Against
- ECR
- Chiara Gemma, Bert-Jan Ruissen, Jessika van Leeuwen
- ESN
- Irmhild Boßdorf
- No group
- Judita Laššáková
- EPP
- Miriam Lexmann
- Patriots
- Elisabeth Dieringer, Viktória Ferenc, Margarita de la Pisa Carrión
0 · Abstained