(1)

According to Article 2 of the Treaty on European Union, ‘the Union is founded on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom democracy, equality, the rule of law and the respect for human rights, including the rights of the persons belonging to minorities. These values are common to the Member States in a society where pluralism, non-discrimination, tolerance, justice, solidarity and equality between women and men prevail’. Article 3 further specifies that the ‘Union’s aim is to promote peace, its values and the well-being of its people’ and, among others, ‘it shall respect its rich cultural and linguistic diversity, and shall ensure that Europe’s cultural heritage is safeguarded and enhanced’. These values are further reaffirmed and articulated in the rights, freedoms and principles enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union (‘the Charter’).

(1)

According to Article 2 of the Treaty on European Union, ‘the Union is founded on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom democracy, equality, the rule of law and the respect for human rights, including the rights of the persons belonging to minorities. These values are common to the Member States in a society where pluralism, non-discrimination, tolerance, justice, solidarity and equality between women and men prevail’. Article 3 further specifies that the ‘Union’s aim is to promote peace, its values and the well-being of its people’ and, among others, ‘it shall respect its rich cultural and linguistic diversity, and shall ensure that Europe’s cultural heritage is safeguarded and enhanced’. Article 8 TFEU further states that the Union shall, through all its activities, aim at eliminating inequalities, promote gender equality and combat discrimination when defining and implementing its policies and activities. These values are further reaffirmed and articulated in the rights, freedoms and principles enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union (‘the Charter’) and the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities .

(1 a)

In line with Articles 8 and 10 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, the Justice Programme in all its activities should support gender mainstreaming, including gender budgeting, and the mainstreaming of non-discrimination objectives.

(2)

These rights and values must continue to be promoted and enforced, shared among the citizens and peoples within the Union and be at the heart of Europe’s societies, Therefore, a new Justice, Rights and Values Fund, comprising the Rights and Values and the Justice programmes shall be created in the Union budget. At a time where European societies are confronted with extremism, radicalism and divisions, it is more important than ever to promote, strengthen and defend justice, rights and EU values: human rights, respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law. This will have profound and direct implications for political, social, cultural and economic life in the EU. As a part of the new Fund, the Rights and Values Programme will bring together the 2014-2020 Rights, Equality and Citizenship Programme established by Regulation (EU) No 1381/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council (10) and the Europe for Citizens programme established by Regulation (EU) No 390/2014 of the Council (11). The Justice programme (hereafter the ‘Programme’) will continue to support the development of an integrated European justice area and cross-border cooperation, in continuity with the 2014-2020 Justice Programme established by Regulation (EU) No 1381/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council (12) (hereafter ‘the predecessor Programme’).

(2)

These rights and values must continue to be actively cultivated, protected, promoted by the Union and each Member State in all their policies, in a consistent way, as well as enforced and shared among the citizens and peoples within the Union and be at the heart of Europe’s societies, At the same time, a properly functioning European area of justice and efficient, independent and quality national legal systems, as well as greater mutual trust, are necessary for a flourishing internal market and for upholding the common values of the Union. Therefore, a new Justice, Rights and Values Fund, comprising the Rights and Values and the Justice programmes shall be created in the Union budget. At a time where European societies are confronted with extremism, radicalism , polarisation and divisions , and proceedings under Article 7 of the Treaty on European Union, relating to systematic breaches of the rule of law, as well as infringement proceedings on issues relating to the rule of law in Member States, are ongoing , it is more important than ever to promote, strengthen and defend justice, rights and EU values: human rights and fundamental rights , respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, including gender equality , non-discrimination and the rule of law , since the deterioration of those rights and values in any Member State can have detrimental effects on the Union as a whole . This will have profound and direct implications for political, social, cultural and economic life in the EU. As a part of the new Fund, the Rights and Values Programme will bring together the 2014-2020 Rights, Equality and Citizenship Programme established by Regulation (EU) No 1381/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council10  (10) and the Europe for Citizens programme established by Regulation (EU) No 390/2014 of the Council (11). The Justice programme (hereafter the ‘Programme’) will continue to support the development of an integrated European justice area and cross-border cooperation, in continuity with the 2014-2020 Justice Programme established by Regulation (EU) No 1381/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council (12) (hereafter ‘the predecessor Programme’).

(3)

The Justice, Rights and Values Fund and its two underlying funding programmes will focus primarily on people and entities which contribute to make our common values, rights and rich diversity alive and vibrant. The ultimate objective is to nurture and sustain our rights-based, equal, inclusive and democratic society . That includes a vibrant civil society, encouraging people’s democratic, civic and social participation and to fostering the rich diversity of European society, also based on our common history and memory. Article 11 of the EU Treaty further specifies that the institutions shall, by appropriate means, give citizens and representative associations the opportunity to make known and publicly exchange their views in all areas of Union action.

(3)

The Justice, Rights and Values Fund and its two underlying funding programmes will focus on people and entities which contribute to make our common values, rights and rich diversity alive and vibrant. The ultimate objective is to nurture and sustain our rights-based, equal, open, inclusive and democratic society , in particular by funding activities that promote a vibrant , well-developed, resilient and empowered civil society, enabling people’s democratic, civic and social participation , and the proper application and implementation of human and fundamental rights, fostering the rich diversity of European society, also based on our common history and memory. Article 11 of the EU Treaty requires that the institutions shall maintain an open, transparent and regular dialogue with civil society and shall, by appropriate means, give citizens and representative associations the opportunity to make known and publicly exchange their views in all areas of Union action. This is particularly important in the light of the increasingly shrinking space for independent civil society in a number of Member States.

(4)

The Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) provides for the creation of an area of freedom, security and justice, with respect for fundamental rights and the different legal systems and traditions of the Member States. To that end, the Union may adopt measures to develop judicial cooperation in civil matters and judicial cooperation in criminal matters and to promote and support the action of Member States in the field of crime prevention. Respect for fundamental rights as well as for common principles and values, such as non-discrimination, gender equality, effective access to justice for all, the rule of law and a well-functioning independent judicial system shall be ensured in the further development of a European area of justice.

(4)

The Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) provides for the creation of an area of freedom, security and justice, with respect for fundamental rights and the different legal systems and traditions of the Member States. Respect for and promotion of the rule of law, fundamental rights and democracy within the Union are prerequisites for upholding all rights and obligations enshrined in the Treaties, and for building people's trust in the Union. The way in which the rule of law is implemented in the Member States plays a vital role in ensuring mutual trust among Member States and between their legal systems. To that end, the Union may adopt measures to develop judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters and, when applicable, administrative matters and to promote and support the action of Member States in the field of crime prevention , focusing in particular on serious cross-border crimes, fiscal crimes, environmental crimes, terrorism and violations of fundamental rights, such as human trafficking, and in the field of victims’ rights protection . Respect for human and fundamental rights as well as for common principles and values, such as non-discrimination, solidarity, equal treatment on the basis of any of the grounds listed in Article 21 of the Charter, effective access to justice for all, the rule of law , democracy and a well-functioning independent judicial system should be ensured and fostered in the further development of a European area of justice at local, regional and national levels .

(4 a)

Article 81 TFEU explicitly provides that the Union may adopt legal acts for the approximation of laws of the Member States. Under the Treaty, such acts may be adopted inter alia for the mutual recognition and enforcement between Member States of judgments and extrajudicial decisions; the cross-border service of judicial and extrajudicial documents; the compatibility of the private international law rules applicable in the Member States concerning conflict of laws and of jurisdiction; cooperation in the taking of evidence; effective access to justice; the elimination of obstacles to the proper functioning of civil, criminal and administrative proceedings, which may include making national court procedures more compatible; the development of alternative dispute resolution (ADR); and support for training of the judiciary and judicial staff.

(5)

Financing should remain one of the important tools for the successful implementation of the ambitious goals set by the Treaties. They should be attained inter alia by establishing a flexible and effective Justice Programme which should facilitate planning and implementation of those goals.

(5)

Financing  is one of the most  important tools for the successful implementation of the ambitious goals set by the Treaties. They should be attained inter alia by establishing a flexible and effective Justice Programme which should facilitate planning and implementation of those goals , taking into account which activities bring the highest Union added value, using key performance indicators, whenever possible .

(5 a)

The Programme should aim to increase the flexibility and accessibility of its funds and provide the same funding opportunities and conditions for civil society organisations inside as for the ones outside the Union.

(6)

For the gradual establishment of an area of freedom, security and justice, the Union is to adopt measures relating to judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters based on the principle of mutual recognition of judgments and judicial decisions, which is a cornerstone of judicial cooperation within the Union since the Tampere European Council of 15 and 16 October 1999. Mutual recognition requires a high level of mutual trust among Member States. Measures to approximate the laws of the Member States in several areas have been adopted to facilitate mutual recognition and foster mutual trust. A well-functioning area of justice, where obstacles in cross-border judicial proceedings and access to justice in cross-border situations are eliminated, is also key to ensure economic growth.

(6)

For the gradual establishment of an area of freedom, security and justice for all , the Union is to adopt measures relating to judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters based on the principle of mutual recognition of judgments and judicial decisions, which is a cornerstone of judicial cooperation within the Union since the Tampere European Council of 15 and 16 October 1999. Mutual recognition requires a high level of mutual trust among Member States. Measures to approximate the laws of the Member States in several areas have been adopted to facilitate mutual recognition and foster mutual trust. A well-functioning area of justice, where obstacles in cross-border judicial proceedings and access to justice in cross-border situations are eliminated, is also key to ensure economic growth and further integration .

(6 a)

As recalled by the Court of Justice of the European Union in its case law  (1a) , judicial independence forms part of the essence of the fundamental right to a fair trial and represents the basis for mutual trust and mutual recognition.

(6 b)

Access to justice should include, in particular, access to courts, to alternative methods of dispute settlement, and to public office-holders who are obliged by the law to provide parties with independent and impartial legal advice.

(6 c)

The incorporation of the gender perspective in justice systems should be considered an important goal to further develop the European area of justice. Intersectional discrimination in the justice system is still one of the main barriers in terms of women’s equal access to justice. The programme should therefore actively contribute to the elimination of any discrimination and barriers to minorities, persons with disabilities, migrants, asylum seekers, elderly people, people living in remote areas or any vulnerable groups that might be faced with restrictions to access to justice, and support victim-friendly and gender sensitive procedures and decisions in judicial systems.

(7)

Respect for the rule of law is essential for a high level of mutual trust in the area of justice and home affairs, in particular for effective judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters which is based on mutual recognition. The rule of law is one of the common values enshrined in Article TEU 2, and the principle of effective judicial protection provided for in Articles 19(1) TEU and 47 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights is a concrete expression of the rule of law. Promoting the rule of law by supporting the efforts to improve the independence, quality and efficiency of national justice systems enhances the mutual trust which is indispensable for judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters.

(7)

Full respect and promotion of the rule of law is essential for a high level of mutual trust in the area of freedom, security and justice and home affairs, in particular for effective judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters which is based on mutual recognition. The rule of law is one of the common values enshrined in Article TEU 2, and the principle of effective judicial protection provided for in Articles 19(1) TEU and 47 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights is a concrete expression of the rule of law. Promoting the rule of law by supporting the efforts to improve the independence, transparency, accountability, quality and efficiency of national justice systems enhances the mutual trust which is indispensable for judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters.

(7 a)

It is important to recall that justice means affirming the rule of law in society and ensuring for everyone the right to a fair trial by an independent and impartial court with a view to the protection of European values.

(8)

Pursuant to Articles 81(2)(h) and 82(1)(c) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU, the Union shall support the training of the judiciary and judicial staff as a tool to improve judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters based on the principle of mutual recognition of judgments and of judicial decisions. Training of justice professionals is an important tool to develop a common understanding of how best to uphold the rule of law. It contributes to the building of the European area of justice by creating a common judicial culture among justice professionals of the Member States. It is essential to ensure the correct and coherent application of law in the Union and mutual trust between justice professionals in cross-border proceedings. The training activities supported by the Programme should be based on sound training needs’ assessments, use state of the art training methodology, include cross-border events gathering justice professionals of different Member States, comprise active learning and networking elements and be sustainable.

(8)

Pursuant to Articles 81(2)(h) and 82(1)(c) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU, the Union shall support the training of the judiciary and judicial staff as a tool to improve judicial cooperation in civil, and criminal matters and, when applicable, administrative matters based on the principle of mutual recognition of judgments and of judicial decisions. Training of justice professionals is an important tool to develop a common understanding of how best to implement and uphold the rule of law and fundamental rights . It contributes to the building of the European area of justice by creating a common judicial culture among justice professionals of the Member States. It is essential to ensure the non-discriminatory, correct and coherent application of law in the Union and mutual trust and understanding between justice professionals in cross-border proceedings. The training activities supported by the Programme should be based on sound training needs’ assessments, use state of the art training methodology, include cross-border events gathering justice professionals , including those working for civil society organisations, of different Member States, comprise active learning and networking elements and be sustainable. It should include training courses for judges, lawyers, prosecutors and police about the challenges and obstacles experienced by people in a vulnerable situation, including children, ethnic minorities, LGBTI people, persons with disabilities, victims of gender-based and other forms of interpersonal violence and victims of trafficking, and about how to ensure that victims of crimes are properly protected. Such training courses should be organised with the direct involvement of such persons and organisations representing or supporting them.

(8 a)

Reasonable time-limits for proceedings serve the purpose of legal certainty, which is the key requirement for the rule of law.

(8 b)

Pursuant to Council Decision (EU) 2017/865 of 11 May 2017 on the signing, on behalf of the European Union, of the Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence with regard to matters related to judicial cooperation in criminal matters, and the respective decision with regard to asylum and non-refoulement, the Programme should support the training of the judiciary and judicial staff with a view to raising awareness and promoting the practical application of the Convention within this scope to better protect victims of violence against women and girls across the Union.

(9)

Judicial training can involve different actors, such as Member States’ legal, judicial and administrative authorities, academic institutions, national bodies responsible for judicial training, European-level training organisations or networks, or networks of court coordinators of Union law. Bodies and entities pursuing a general European interest in the field of training of the judiciary, such as the European Judicial Training Network (‘EJTN’), the Academy of European Law (‘ERA’), the European Network of Councils for the Judiciary (‘ENCJ’), the Association of the Councils of State and Supreme Administrative Jurisdictions of the European Union (‘ACA-Europe’), the Network of the Presidents of Supreme Judicial Courts of the European Union (‘RPCSJUE’) and the European Institute of Public Administration (‘EIPA’), should continue to play their role in promoting training programmes with a genuine European dimension for the judiciary and judicial staff, and could therefore be granted adequate financial support in accordance with the procedures and the criteria set out in the annual work programmes adopted by the Commission pursuant to this Regulation.

(9)

Judicial training can involve different actors, such as Member States’ legal, judicial and administrative authorities, academic institutions, national bodies responsible for judicial training, European-level training organisations or networks, or networks of court coordinators of Union law , as well as relevant civil society organisations including those bringing forward representative actions . Bodies and entities pursuing a general European interest in the field of training of the judiciary, such as the European Judicial Training Network (‘EJTN’), the Academy of European Law (‘ERA’), the European Network of Councils for the Judiciary (‘ENCJ’), the Association of the Councils of State and Supreme Administrative Jurisdictions of the European Union (‘ACA-Europe’), the Network of the Presidents of Supreme Judicial Courts of the European Union (‘RPCSJUE’) and the European Institute of Public Administration (‘EIPA’), should continue to play their role in promoting training programmes with a genuine European dimension for the judiciary and judicial staff, and could therefore be granted adequate financial support in accordance with the procedures and the criteria set out in the annual work programmes adopted by the Commission pursuant to this Regulation. In addition, organisations in the fields of fundamental rights, and professionals working with victims of violence as well as specialised academic institutions could also contribute to such training programmes, and should therefore be associated whenever relevant. Taking into account that women judges are underrepresented in the top positions, women judges, prosecutors and other legal professions should be encouraged to participate in the training activities.

(9 a)

The Member States should invest more in development of judicial training courses and continuous education for judges as such activities form a basis for an efficient, independent and impartial judicial system.

(10 a)

The programme should also support the promotion of best practices between courts specifically handling gender-based violence and the exchange of common resources and training materials on gender-based violence for judges, public prosecutors, lawyers, police and other professionals that come into contact with victims of gender based violence.

(11)

Measures under the Programme should support enhanced mutual recognition of judicial decisions and judgments and the necessary approximation of legislation that will facilitate cooperation between all the relevant authorities, including Financial Intelligence Units, and the judicial protection of individual rights in civil and commercial matters. The Programme should also advance the procedural legislation for cross-border cases and greater convergence in civil law that will help to eliminate obstacles to good and efficient functioning judicial and extra-judicial procedures in benefit of all parties in a civil dispute. Finally, in order to support the effective enforcement and practical application of the Union law on judicial cooperation in civil matters, the Programme should support the functioning of the European Judicial Network in Civil and Commercial matters established by Council Decision 2001/470/EC.

(11)

Measures under the Programme should support enhanced mutual recognition of judicial decisions and judgments , mutual trust between Member States and the necessary approximation of legislation that will facilitate cooperation between all the relevant authorities, including Financial Intelligence Units, and the judicial protection of individual rights in civil and commercial matters. The Programme should also advance the procedural legislation for cross-border cases including mediation procedures, especially focusing on facilitating non-discriminatory access to justice for all, and greater convergence , in particular in civil law that will help to eliminate obstacles to good and efficient functioning judicial and extra-judicial procedures in benefit of all parties in a civil dispute. Finally, in order to support the effective enforcement and practical application of the Union law on judicial cooperation in civil matters, the Programme should support the functioning of the European Judicial Network in Civil and Commercial matters established by Council Decision 2001/470/EC.

(12)

Pursuant to Article 3(3) of the TEU, Article 24 of the Charter and the 1989 United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, the Programme should support the protection of the rights of the child, and should mainstream the promotion of the rights of the child in the implementation of all of its actions.

(12)

Pursuant to Article 3(3) of the TEU, Article 24 of the Charter and the 1989 United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, the Programme should support the protection of the rights of the child, and should mainstream the promotion of the rights of the child in the implementation of all of its actions. To this purpose, particular attention should be given to actions aimed at the protection of the rights of children in the context of civil and criminal justice, including the protection of children accompanying parents in detention and children of imprisoned parents. Appropriate support should also be considered in favour of training activities aimed at the proper implementation of Directive (EU) 2016/800 on procedural safeguards for children who are suspects or accused persons in criminal proceedings.

(12 a)

Pursuant to Article 3(3) TEU, Article 23 of the Charter and the Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence (Istanbul Convention), the Programme should support the protection of women’s rights, and should mainstream the promotion of gender-based issues in the implementation of all of its actions. To ensure and strengthen women’s and girls’ access to justice in cases of gender-based violence, Member States should ratify the Istanbul Convention and adopt comprehensive legislation against gender-based violence in the Union.

(12 b)

Pursuant to the Council Directive 2000/43/EC of 29 June 2000 implementing the principle of equal treatment between persons irrespective of racial or ethnic origin, the Programme should support the protection of people belonging to racial or ethnic minorities, such as Roma, and mainstream the promotion of their rights in the implementation of all of its actions, in particular by strengthening anti-discrimination measures.

(13)

The 2014-2020 Programme has enabled training activities on Union law, in particular on the scope and application of the Charter, targeted at members of the judiciary and other legal practitioners. In its conclusions of 12 October 2017 on the application of the Charter in 2016, the Council recalled the importance of awareness-raising on the application of the Charter, including among policymakers, legal practitioners and the rights holders themselves, at national as well as at Union level. Therefore, to mainstream fundamental rights in a consistent way, it is necessary to extend financial support to awareness –raising activities for other public authorities than judicial authorities and legal practitioners.

(13)

The 2014-2020 Programme has enabled training activities on Union law, in particular on the scope and application of the Charter, targeted at members of the judiciary and other legal practitioners. In its conclusions of 12 October 2017 on the application of the Charter in 2016, the Council recalled the importance of awareness-raising on the application of the Charter, including among policymakers, legal practitioners and the rights holders themselves, at national as well as at Union level. Therefore, to mainstream fundamental rights in a consistent way, it is necessary to extend financial support to awareness –raising activities for other public authorities than judicial authorities and legal practitioners , and for NGOs undertaking this task as well .

(14)

Pursuant to Article 67 TFEU, the Union should constitute an area of freedom, security and justice with respect for fundamental rights, to which access to justice is instrumental. In order to facilitate effective access to justice, and with a view to foster the mutual trust which is indispensable for the good functioning of the area of freedom, security and justice, it is necessary to extend financial support to activities of other authorities than judicial authorities and legal practitioners, as well as of civil society organisations, which contribute to these objectives.

(14)

Pursuant to Article 67 TFEU, the Union should constitute an area of freedom, security and justice with respect for fundamental rights, to which non-discriminatory access to justice for all is instrumental. In order to facilitate effective access to justice, and with a view to foster the mutual trust which is indispensable for the good functioning of the area of freedom, security and justice, it is necessary to extend financial support to activities of other authorities than judicial authorities at national regional and local level, and legal practitioners, as well as of civil society organisations including those representing the rights of victims of crimes , which contribute to these objectives. In order to achieve access to justice for all, support should be given, in particular, to activities which facilitate effective and equal access to justice for people in a vulnerable situation such as children, ethnic minorities, LGBTI people, persons with disabilities, victims of gender-based and other forms of interpersonal violence and victims of trafficking and migrants, irrespective of their residence status.

(15)

Pursuant to Articles 8 and 10 TFEU, the Programme should also support the mainstreaming of equality between women and men and non-discrimination objectives in all its activities.

(15)

Pursuant to Articles 8 and 10 TFEU, the Programme should take a cross-cutting approach to promote gender equality and support the mainstreaming of gender equality and non-discrimination objectives in all its activities. Regular monitoring and evaluation should be carried out to assess the way in which those objectives are addressed in the Programme's activities.

(16)

Actions covered by this Regulation should contribute to the creation of a European area of justice, increasing cross-border cooperation and networking and achieving the correct, coherent and consistent application of Union law. Funding activities should also contribute to a common understanding of the Union’s values, the rule of law, to better knowledge of Union law and policies, to sharing know-how and best practices in using judicial cooperation instruments by all concerned stakeholders, as well as to a proliferation of interoperable digital solutions underpinning seamless and efficient cross-border cooperation, and should provide a sound analytical basis to support the development, enforcement and proper implementation of Union law and policies. Union intervention allows for those actions to be pursued consistently across the Union and brings economies of scale. Moreover, the Union is in a better position than Member States to address cross-border situations and to provide a European platform for mutual learning.

(16)

Actions covered by this Regulation should contribute to the creation of a European area of justice, fostering the independence and efficiency of the legal system, increasing cross-border cooperation and networking , underpinning mutual trust between the Member State judiciaries and achieving the correct, coherent and consistent application of Union law . Particular attention should be given to the application of Union equality law and to a better implementation of and coordination between the various Union instruments for protection of victims . Funding activities should also contribute to a common understanding of the Union’s values, the rule of law, to better knowledge of Union law and policies, to sharing know-how and best practices in using judicial cooperation instruments by all concerned stakeholders, as well as to a proliferation and promotion of interoperable digital solutions underpinning seamless and efficient cross-border cooperation, and should provide a sound analytical basis to support the development, enforcement and proper understanding and implementation of Union law and policies. Union intervention allows for those actions to be pursued consistently across the Union and brings economies of scale. Moreover, the Union is in a better position than Member States to address cross-border situations and to provide a European platform for mutual learning and sharing of best practice .

(16 a)

The Programme should also contribute to enhancing cooperation with third countries whenever Union law has an extraterritorial application, to improve access to justice and facilitate tackling judicial and procedural challenges in particular in cases of human trafficking, and relating to climate change and corporate business responsibility.

(16 b)

As highlighted by the European Parliament's Report on the European Commission's 2017 Justice Scoreboard, there are still significant gender balance disparities among the Member States' judiciary and judicial staff, particularly, but not exclusively, in relation to the following aspects: the proportion of female judges in higher levels of the judiciary, transparency in appointments, reconciliation between work and non-work responsibilities and the existence of mentoring practices. The Programme should therefore support training activities seeking to address those disparities. Such activities could, for instance, be tailored for female professionals within Member States' judiciaries and judicial staff or, where adequate, target both female and male professionals, in an effort to raise awareness among all relevant staff.

(16 c)

The Union’s justice system does not deliver adequate justice and protection to women and girls, and consequently, victims of gender-based violence do not receive the necessary support. That also includes the lack of protection and support regarding victims of sex trafficking, refugee and migrant women, LGBTIQ-people and persons with disabilities.

(17)

The Commission should ensure overall consistency, complementarity and synergies with the work of Union bodies, offices and agencies, such as EUROJUST, EU-LISa and the European Public Prosecutor Office, and should take stock of the work of other national and international actors in the areas covered by the Programme.

(17)

The Commission should ensure overall consistency, complementarity and synergies with the work of Union bodies, offices and agencies, such as EUROJUST, FRA, OLAF, EU-LISa and the European Public Prosecutor Office, in order to take stock of the work of other national and international actors in the areas covered by the Programme and recommend improvements, when necessary.

(18)

It is necessary to ensure the European added value of all actions and activities carried out within the Programme, their complementarity to Member States’ activities, and their consistency with other Union activities. In order to ensure efficient allocation of funds from the general budget of the Union, consistency, complementarity and synergies should be sought between funding programmes supporting policy areas with close links to each other, in particular within the Justice, Rights and Values Fund — and thus with the Rights and Values Programme- and between the Programme and the Single Market Programme, Border management and Security, in particular the Asylum and Migration (‘AMIF’) and the Internal Security Funds, Strategic Infrastructure in particular the Digital Europe Programme, the Erasmus+ Programme, the Framework Programme for research and innovation, the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance, and the LIFE Regulation (13).

(18)

It is necessary to ensure the viability, visibility, the core principle of European added value, and sound financial management in the implementation of all actions and activities carried out within the Justice Programme, their complementarity to Member States’ activities, and their consistency with other Union activities. In order to ensure efficient and performance-based allocation of funds from the general budget of the Union, consistency, complementarity and synergies should be sought between funding programmes supporting policy areas with close links to each other, in particular within the Justice, Rights and Values Fund — and thus with the Rights and Values Programme- and between the Programme and the Single Market Programme, Border management and Security, in particular the Asylum and Migration (‘AMIF’) and the Internal Security Funds, Strategic Infrastructure in particular the Digital Europe Programme, the European Social Fund+, the Erasmus+ Programme, the Framework Programme for research and innovation, the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance, and the LIFE Regulation (13) . The implementation of the Justice Programme should be without prejudice to, and complemented by, Union legislation and policies regarding the protection of the Union’s budget in case of generalised deficiencies as regards the rule of law in Member States; .

(19 a)

Mechanisms to ensure a link between Union funding policies and Union values should be further refined, allowing the Commission to make a proposal to the Council to transfer resources allocated to a Member State under shared management to the Programme where that Member State is subject to procedures relating to Union values. A comprehensive Union mechanism on democracy, rule of law and fundamental rights should guarantee the regular and equal review of all Member States, providing the necessary information for the activation of measures related to general deficiencies of Union values in Member States. In order to ensure uniform implementation and in view of the importance of the financial effects of measures being imposed, implementing powers should be conferred on the Council which should act on the basis of a Commission proposal. To facilitate the adoption of decisions which are required to ensure effective action, reversed qualified majority voting should be used.

(19 b)

It is important to ensure sound financial management of the programme and its implementation in the most effective and user-friendly manner possible, while also ensuring legal certainty and the accessibility of the programme to all participants.

(19 c)

Improving implementation and the quality of spending should constitute guiding principles for achieving the objectives of the programme while ensuring optimal use of the financial resources.

(20)

Regulation (EU, Euratom) No [the new FR] (the ‘Financial Regulation’) applies to this Programme. It lays down rules on the implementation of the Union budget, including the rules on grants, prizes, procurement, indirect implementation, financial assistance, financial instruments and budgetary guarantees.

(20)

Regulation (EU, Euratom) No [the new FR] (the ‘Financial Regulation’) applies to this Programme. It lays down rules on the implementation of the Union budget, including the rules on grants, prizes, procurement, indirect implementation, financial assistance, financial instruments and budgetary guarantees and demands full transparency on the use of resources, sound financial management and prudent use of resources . In particular, rules concerning the possibility for local, regional, national and transnational civil society organisations to be funded through multiannual operating grants, cascading grants, provisions ensuring fast and flexible grant-making procedures, such as a two-step-application procedure, user-friendly applications and reporting procedures should be operationalised and further strengthened as part of the implementation of this Programme. Co-funding criteria should take into account volunteer work.

(21)

The types of financing and the methods of implementation under this Regulation should be chosen on the basis of their ability to achieve the specific objectives of the actions and to deliver results, taking into account, in particular, the costs of controls, the administrative burden, and the expected risk of non-compliance. This should include consideration of the use of lump sums, flat rates and unit costs, as well as financing not linked to costs as referred to in Article 125(1) of the Financial Regulation.

(21)

The types of financing and the methods of implementation under this Regulation should be chosen on the basis of their ability to achieve the specific objectives of the actions and to deliver the desired results, taking into account, in particular, the costs of controls, the administrative burden, the size and capacity of relevant stakeholders and targeted beneficiaries, and the expected risk of non-compliance. This should include consideration of the use of lump sums, flat rates, unit costs and cascading grants , as well as financing not linked to costs as referred to in Article 125(1) of the Financial Regulation.

(22)

In accordance with the Financial Regulation, Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council (15), Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2988/95 (16) Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/96 (17) and Council Regulation (EU) 2017/1939 (18) the financial interests of the Union are to be protected through proportionate measures, including the prevention, detection, correction and investigation of irregularities and fraud, the recovery of funds lost, wrongly paid or incorrectly used and, where appropriate, the imposition of administrative sanctions. In particular, in accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 and Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/96 the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) may carry out administrative investigations, including on-the-spot checks and inspections, with a view to establishing whether there has been fraud, corruption or any other illegal activity affecting the financial interests of the Union. In accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/1939, the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) may investigate and prosecute fraud and other criminal offences affecting the financial interests of the Union as provided for in Directive (EU) 2017/1371 of the European Parliament and of the Council (19) In accordance with the Financial Regulation, any person or entity receiving Union funds is to fully cooperate in the protection of the Union’s financial interests, to grant the necessary rights and access to the Commission, OLAF, the EPPO and the European Court of Auditors (ECA) and to ensure that any third parties involved in the implementation of Union funds grant equivalent rights.

(22)

In accordance with the Financial Regulation, Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council (15), Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2988/95 (16) Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/96 (17) and Council Regulation (EU) 2017/1939 (18) the financial interests of the Union are to be protected through proportionate measures, including complete transparency of the Programme financing and selection procedures, prevention, detection, correction and investigation of irregularities and fraud, the recovery of funds lost, wrongly paid or incorrectly used and, where appropriate, the imposition of administrative sanctions. In particular, in accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 and Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/96 the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) should carry out administrative investigations, including on-the-spot checks and inspections, with a view to establishing whether there has been fraud, corruption or any other illegal activity affecting the financial interests of the Union. In accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/1939, the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) should investigate and prosecute fraud and other criminal offences affecting the financial interests of the Union as provided for in Directive (EU) 2017/1371 of the European Parliament and of the Council (19) In accordance with the Financial Regulation, any person or entity receiving Union funds is to fully cooperate in the protection of the Union’s financial interests, to grant the necessary rights and access to the Commission, OLAF, the EPPO and the European Court of Auditors (ECA) and to ensure that any third parties involved in the implementation of Union funds grant equivalent rights.

(23)

Third countries which are members of the European Economic Area (EEA) may participate in Union programmes in the framework of the cooperation established under the EEA agreement, which provides for the implementation of the programmes by a decision under that agreement. Third countries may also participate on the basis of other legal instruments. A specific provision should be introduced in this Regulation to grant the necessary rights for and access to the authorizing officer responsible, the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) as well as the European Court of Auditors to comprehensively exert their respective competences.

(23)

Third countries which are members of the European Economic Area (EEA) may participate in Union programmes in the framework of the cooperation established under the EEA agreement, which provides for the implementation of the programmes by a decision under that agreement. Third countries may also participate on the basis of other legal instruments. A specific provision should be introduced in this Regulation to grant the necessary rights for and access to the authorizing officer responsible, human rights bodies and networks, including national institutions responsible for the protection of human rights in each Member State, bodies and networks responsible for non-discrimination and equality policies, ombudsmen, the European Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA), the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) as well as the European Court of Auditors to comprehensively exert their respective competences, and enhance their synergies and cooperation . It should be possible to include third countries especially whenever their involvement fosters the objectives of the programme, taking note that it is in accordance with the general principles and general terms and conditions for the participation of those countries in Union programmes established in the respective framework agreements and Association Council decisions or similar agreements;

(24 a)

The proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and the Council on the protection of the Union's budget in case of generalised deficiencies as regards the rule of law in the Member States aims to equip the Union to better protect its budget when weaknesses in the rule of law impair or threaten to impair sound financial management of the financial interests of the Union. It should complement the Justice programme the role of which is different, namely to further support the development of a European Area of Justice that is based on the rule of law and mutual trust, and to ensure people can enjoy their rights.

(25)

Pursuant to [reference to be updated as appropriate according to a new decision on OCTs: Article 94 of Council Decision 2013/755/EU (1)], persons and entities established in overseas countries and territories are eligible for funding subject to the rules and objectives of the Programme and possible arrangements applicable to the Member State to which the relevant overseas country or territory is linked.

(25)

Pursuant to [reference to be updated as appropriate according to a new decision on OCTs: Article 94 of Council Decision 2013/755/EU (1)], persons and entities established in overseas countries and territories are eligible for funding subject to the rules and objectives of the Programme and possible arrangements applicable to the Member State to which the relevant overseas country or territory is linked. It is essential that the Programme ensure that such persons and entities are sufficiently informed about their eligibility for funding.

(25 a)

Based on their importance and relevance, this Programme should contribute to fulfilling the commitment of the Union and its Member States to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

(27)

Pursuant to paragraph 22 and 23 of the Inter-institutional agreement for Better Law-Making of 13 April 2016, there is a need to evaluate this Programme on the basis of information collected through specific monitoring requirements, while avoiding overregulation and administrative burdens, in particular on Member States . These requirements, where appropriate, can include measurable indicators, as a basis for evaluating the effects of the Programme on the ground.

(27)

Pursuant to paragraph 22 and 23 of the Inter-institutional agreement for Better Law-Making of 13 April 2016, there is a need to evaluate this Programme on the basis of information collected through specific monitoring requirements, while avoiding overregulation and administrative burdens, in particular on Programme beneficiaries . These requirements, where possible, should include measurable indicators, as a basis for evaluating the effects of the Programme on the ground.

1.

‘Judiciary and judicial staff’ means judges, prosecutors and court staff, as well as other justice professionals associated with the judiciary, such as lawyers, notaries, bailiffs or enforcement officers, insolvency practitioners, mediators, court interpreters and translators, court experts, prison staff and probation officers.

1.

‘Judiciary and judicial staff’ means judges, prosecutors and court staff, as well as other justice professionals associated with the judiciary, such as defence and prosecution lawyers, notaries, bailiffs or enforcement officers, insolvency practitioners, mediators, court interpreters and translators, court experts, prison staff and probation officers.

(a)

to facilitate and support judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters, and to promote the rule of law including by supporting the efforts to improve the effectiveness of national justice systems and the enforcement of decision ;

(a)

within a framework of democracy and respect of fundamental rights, to facilitate and support judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters, including cooperation beyond Union borders whenever Union law has extraterritorial applications, to strengthen access to justice for natural and legal persons and to promote the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary, including by supporting the efforts to improve the effectiveness of national justice systems , the adequate enforcement of judicial decisions and the protection of victims ;

(b)

to support and promote judicial training, with a view to fostering a common legal, judicial and rule of law culture;

(b)

to support and promote national and transnational judicial training, including legal terminology training, with a view to fostering a common legal, judicial and rule of law culture , as well as the consistent and effective implementation of the Union’s legal instruments on mutual recognition and procedural safeguards. Such training shall be gender sensitive, take into account the specific needs of children and persons with disabilities, be victim-oriented, where applicable, and cover, in particular, civil and criminal law and, where applicable, administrative law, fundamental rights as well as the fight against terrorism and radicalisation ;

(c)

to facilitate effective access to justice for all and effective redress, including by electronic means, by promoting efficient civil and criminal procedures and by promoting and supporting the rights of victims of crime as well as the procedural rights of suspects and accused persons in criminal proceedings.

(c)

to facilitate effective and non-discriminatory access to justice for all , with the emphasis on inequalities and discrimination on any ground, such as the grounds listed in Article 21 of the Charter, and effective redress, including by electronic means (e-justice) , by promoting efficient civil, and criminal procedures and, where applicable, administrative procedures, and by promoting and supporting the rights of all victims of crime as well as the procedural rights of suspects and accused persons in criminal proceedings , giving particular attention to children and women .

(ca)

to promote the practical application of drug-related research, to support civil society organisations, to expand the knowledge base in the field, and develop innovative methods of addressing the phenomena of new psychoactive substances and trafficking in human beings and goods.

(1)

(2)

(3)

(4)

(5)

(6)

(7)

(8)

(9)

(10)

(11)

(12)

(13)

(14)

(a)

they have been assessed in a call for proposals under the Programme;

(a)

they have been properly assessed in a call for proposals under the Programme;

(a)

the perceived impact of the Programme on access to justice based on qualitative and quantitative data collected at European level;

(b)

the number and quality of instruments and tools developed through actions funded by the Programme;

(c)

the European added value of the Programme;

(d)

the level of funding in relation to the outcomes achieved;

(e)

potential administrative, organisational and/or structural obstacles to the smoother, more effective and efficient implementation of the Programme.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

(i)

mutual learning and exchange of good practices activities;

(i)

mutual learning and exchange of good practices activities;

(ii)

awareness raising, information and dissemination activities

(ii)

awareness raising, information and dissemination activities

(iia)

capacity-building activities targeted at civil society organisations;

(iib)

activities related to providing people with information on access to justice;

(iic)

activities for judges on litigation challenges and how to apply private international law and Union law in cross border/multidisciplinary cases;

(iid)

awareness-raising activities funded by the Programme.