149107/EU XXV.GP Eingelangt am 29/06/17

Programme of the Estonian Presidency of the Council of the European Union

1 JULY 2017 – 31 DECEMBER 2017

TABLE OF CONTENTS

I Introduction

II An open and innovative European economy

III A safe and secure Europe

IV Digital Europe and the free movement of data

V Inclusive and sustainable Europe INTRODUCTION

Creating European unity, a journey that started 60 years ago, continues to be an ambitious and forward-looking endeavour. The European Union started as a dream of few and became the hope of many. The EU’s four fundamental freedoms – a distant dream and goal in 1957 – are now functioning and accepted as self-evident. Europeans have been living together in peace for longer than ever before. European citizens and companies enjoy unprecedented freedoms and prosper across the globe.

As the EU is facing unprecedented challenges, both at the global and European level, Estonia as the Member State holding the Council presidency is confident that there is sufficient unity and determination in Europe to tackle all problems dynamically. While negotiating the withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Union in accordance with European Council guidelines and negotiating directives adopted by the Council, we also need to adapt to a union of 27 as swiftly as possible. We are confident that we will have the strength and capability to turn these challenges into opportunities, and we have reason to view the European Union and its future with great hope. European unity is expressed through both speaking with one voice and joint action. Together we are stronger than 60 years ago: hundreds of millions of Europeans benefit from living in a greater union. A union that has set aside old divisions and is willing to defend what has been achieved. A union that is determined and tenacious to resolve the current and future challenges. A union where Member States and institutions share responsibilities and take joint decisions that serve the interests of and improve life for all European citizens.

4 EU2017.EE The Estonian Presidency strives for unity through balance; however, this does not mean settling for the lowest common denominator. Unity means broad- based support for the founding values of the European idea and the goals of the European Union, as well as respect for diversity – a fundamental European value – and regarding it as an asset. In building on these principles, Europe – a rather disparate political conglomeration – can succeed in striking a balance between various points of view, interests and traditions. Tenacity, unity and future-oriented thinking require the willingness to compromise from all parties and a constant balancing act between preservation and new developments. ‘One for all and all for one’ means that together we are stronger.

At the EU’s 60th anniversary summit in Rome we endorsed a declaration of intent for the next decade. Debates on the future of Europe continue. The priorities of the Estonian Presidency build on the European Council’s strategic agenda and the common goals formulated in Rome. The following are important objectives for both Estonia and the Presidency: an open and innovative European economy, a safe and secure Europe, a digital Europe and the free movement of data, and an inclusive and sustainable Europe. In pursuing those objectives, we will respect human rights and fundamental freedoms, commit to the principle of better regulation and examine opportunities for using various e-solutions.

EU2017.EE 5 AN OPEN AND INNOVATIVE EUROPEAN ECONOMY

An open European economy has Economic recovery and always been able to adapt to chang- job creation are supported ing circumstances. The Estonian by an attractive business Presidency intends to strive to make environment and functioning the most of transforming challenges trading partnerships and crises into opportunities and using them to promote a strong single The European economy can only flourish market – a key driver of economic if the business environment supports welfare for citizens. Europe must be creativity and an entrepreneurial spirit open to innovation and promote fair and is transparent, simple and free competition in order to encourage of red tape. In order to create growth businesses to develop innovative and jobs, we need to unleash the products and modern services. The full potential of the single market in European economy can only grow services by simplifying administrative and weather crises if society uses formalities for businesses and making the latest technologies and scientific the most of the opportunities offered knowledge. Excellent research is by digital technologies. Boosting the an investment in the future, which cross-border provision of services will creates the capacity to cope with have a direct positive impact on the the rapidly developing changes and economy as a whole, will support the challenges in society. All Europeans set-up and expansion of businesses should benefit from growth. and offer greater choice and better prices for consumers. It is therefore

6 EU2017.EE Estonia’s objective to make significant wishes to continue to promote free progress in negotiations on the services trade with the EU’s partners within the package, including a services e-card, World Trade Organisation (WTO). The services notification procedure and Eleventh WTO Ministerial Conference, the proportionality assessment of to be held in Buenos Aires, Argentina, professional qualifications. is an important milestone in the improvement of global trade rules.

It should be easy to start a business in the European Union. By utilising Investments, a stable banking the opportunities of the information sector and a transparent fiscal society, all operators should make policy will enhance Europe’s maximum use of digital technology competitiveness in carrying out all activities related to a company, from establishment to Estonia attaches importance to winding down operations. Creating the level of growth of both private a better business environment and public investment and will and the exercise of the freedom of work to ensure that the Strategic establishment in the European Union Investment Fund mandate will be are facilitated by harmonised rules for extended. The Estonian Presidency cross-border mergers and divisions aims to create optimal conditions for and for the transfer of the registered sustainable economic growth and a seat of a company from one Member shock-resistant euro area. While the State to another. Estonia wishes to European Economic and Monetary actively proceed with discussions on Union has been strengthened in developments in company law and recent years, a number of projects is ready to start negotiations with are still ongoing. A stable and resilient the European Commission on the banking sector will help to prevent proposed reform package. economic and financial crises; the further reduction of risks is a necessary step towards completing the banking The goal of the Estonian Presidency union. Estonia wants to further is to ensure that the European Union develop the proposals on establishing continues to be an active advocate of common rules in order to reduce free trade on the international arena. risk and strengthen confidence in Estonia is committed to contributing the banking sector. This will bolster to the initiation of negotiations on financial stability and confidence new free trade agreements and to in the euro and reduce pressure on the continuation and conclusion of using taxpayers’ money to support ongoing negotiations. Estonia also the sector.

EU2017.EE 7 A functioning banking union and facilitate cross-border e-commerce capital markets union will facilitate for SMEs, combat VAT fraud and the distribution of risks between ensure a level playing field between the private and public sector in the EU businesses and third-country European Union and contribute to the businesses. Estonia intends to make funding of companies and financial progress on the initiative on VAT stability. The European Commission for e-commerce and conclude has prepared a midterm review of discussions on VAT rates for e-books the development of the capital and e-publications. markets union, for which Estonia plans to set out new goals in close cooperation with the Member States Estonia is working towards agreement in Council Conclusions. In building in the Council of the European on the Commission’s capital markets Union on a common EU list of non- union mid-term review, we will set out cooperative tax jurisdictions. We will next steps for strengthening capital also launch discussions on whether to markets and removing restrictions on impose mandatory rules on financial the free movement of capital. intermediaries and advisers to disclose tax avoidance schemes.

The European tax landscape must take into account the impact of global The modern energy market change and remain an attractive combines an efficient energy market for companies at a time of supply system and consumer increasing international competition. friendliness Tax evasion, avoidance and fraud undermine the competitiveness of Guided by the principles of a honest operators and may result European energy union, Estonia will in considerable tax losses for the strive for an open and innovative Member States. Estonia intends to European economy by developing launch negotiations on the definitive common energy, climate, environ- cross-border VAT system. The current mental and economic policies. The temporary mechanism leaves scope responsible and sustainable use of for tax fraud. The definitive value natural resources will contribute to added tax system will be based on the European Union’s target to cut the principle of taxation at the place greenhouse gas emissions by at least of consumption. The development 40% below 1990 levels by 2030 and to of cross-border e-commerce makes increase the competitiveness of the it necessary to modernise VAT for European Union. cross-border e-commerce in order to

8 EU2017.EE The Estonian Presidency intends to address all important aspects of the energy union. We need to create the conditions for enhancing the role of consumers on the market. Retail markets and distribution networks should be adapted to the needs of all customers, including those generating electricity. Europe’s approach to the electricity markets should be based on the principle of cooperation, which has great potential for saving energy. Estonia will make a strong contribution to the EU’s efforts to develop energy markets that encourage energy efficiency and investments into energy production and connections. The integration of European energy systems and markets is essential for ensuring an affordable and secure energy supply for consumers.

The European Union budget contributes to the achievement of common objectives

By funding common objectives and policies, the European Union and Member States can achieve more than they would individually. The debates on the future of the European Union budget must consider the added value offered to the Member States through joint action at the European Union level, be it scientific cooperation, cross-border infrastructure projects, reducing disparities in the economic development of various regions, providing high quality food or conserv- ing natural resources.

EU2017.EE 9 In the second half of 2017, the European The European Union budget for Commission will publish interim reports 2018 should continue to support the on the results and achievements of the competitiveness of the European major thematic funding programmes – Union, economic growth and recovery Horizon 2020, the Connecting Europe and employment as well as address Facility, Cohesion Policy funds and the migration and security challenges. the Common Agricultural Policy funds It is important to ensure a realistic – together with possible guidelines budget that meets the objectives for the future, and discussions on and requirements set for it. Estonia’s how to support the achievement of task is to reach an agreement to European Union political objectives in ensure that the European Union has the budgetary period commencing the necessary resources in its 2018 in 2021. In the context of Horizon 2020 budget to achieve its objectives interim evaluation, Estonia intends to and implement its policies. Estonia initiate a discussion on how to simplify will continue negotiations on the the research and innovation partnering simplification of the European instruments, funded from the Union Financial Regulation and the Framework Programme, and support related regulations, i.e. the ‘omnibus’ the participation of newcomers. Regulation, in order to implement the Estonia also plans to lead a discussion regulations from 1 January 2018. The in the context of the Connecting European Union budget must be able Europe Facility mid-term review on to respond flexibly to the changing the future framework for the cross- circumstances; the rules on the use of border infrastructure investments. budget funds should be clearer and Estonia wishes to advance the political simpler. discussion on the future of the cohesion policy, taking into account the long- term development needs of the European Union as well as its regions A purposeful use of the European and supporting the continuation of a Union budget is in our common strong cohesion policy. Estonia believes interest. Abuse of the budget and that agricultural policy should continue VAT fraud must be responded to in the European Union as a common effectively. Estonia will seek to reach policy funded from the European Union an agreement on the establishment budget. The Estonian Presidency will of a European Public Prosecutor’s have the opportunity to introduce a Office. debate on the planning of the next multi-annual financial framework.

10 EU2017.EE EU2017.EE 11 A SAFE AND SECURE EUROPE

Ensuring the safety and security of fundamental rights by ensuring a Europe and the well-being of its coherent and coordinated capacity citizens is the raison d’être of the Euro- to respond to emerging threats, pean Union. The European Union’s such as emergencies caused by ability to fulfil this goal depends on nature or technology, terrorism and developments in the European Union, hybrid threats. Estonia intends to its immediate neighbourhood and utilise the opportunities provided beyond and on the global stage. by modern communication and In recognition of the intrinsic link information technologies, such as between the internal and external the interoperability of information aspects of security, the Presidency systems and the improved quality will work to promote and uphold the of data exchange in accordance objectives of the Security Union and with the common European Union those set out in the Global Strategy. data protection rules, to prevent and thwart various types of crime.

A Europe without internal borders requires common solutions on security, Modern IT solutions and migration, asylum and external databases contribute to border policies. The Presidency will maintaining public security in produce a mid-term review of the the Schengen area progress of the European Union in strengthening cooperation in the Europe without borders with the area of freedom, security and justice. free movement of goods, services We will continue to work towards and persons is one of Europe’s ensuring a safe society based on most important achievements that

12 EU2017.EE affects us every day. The Presidency focus on modernising the Schengen will continue efforts toenhance Information System, which is the security in the Schengen area by main tool for data and information strengthening cooperation and exchange between police, border improving compensatory measures, control and customs authorities. The particularly regarding the control and exchange of criminal records minimises surveillance of the European Union’s the chances of criminals being external borders. These actions able to hide their crimes by moving will be accompanied by practical from one Member State to another. cooperation such as a more frequent The Estonian Presidency will focus on and efficient exchange of information the improvement of the European on serious crime. Criminal Records Information System.

The Presidency will work towards Currently, the data held by the introducing modern IT solutions to European Union border control and enhance the security of the external security authorities is fragmented borders of the Schengen area, while and this is hindering their work. The maintaining smooth border crossing. best way to enhance information In order to make the control and exchange is to make the information surveillance of the European Union’s systems interoperable and facilitate external borders more efficient and clearly defined and justified access to secure more detailed information by authorities to the data held in on third country nationals entering or these information systems. leaving the European Union, Estonia will seek an agreement on the new Cross-border cooperation European Entry/Exit system for should be reinforced to tackle registering border crossings by third terrorism and organised crime country nationals. Another objective more effectively is to reach the final stage of the negotiations on the European Travel Terrorism has become a global Information and Authorisation System security threat, which can be (ETIAS), which is designed to register effectively prevented and thwarted the crossing of the external border by only through a united stance. To visa-exempt third country nationals. combat terrorism and radicalisation effectively, we need to have a common understanding of the Law enforcement authorities must threats involved. We intend to be able to exchange more precise focus both on the prevention of information on criminals. Estonia will radicalisation and on building the

EU2017.EE 13 rapid response capabilities of the and processing of e-evidence would Member States. We want to bring the significantly facilitate obtaining internal and external aspects of the evidence in cross-border cases. fight against terrorism closer together Estonia wants to launch discussions and to develop joint expertise on the collection and use of capacities. The Estonian Presidency e-evidence. Communication data is intends to focus also on building the often important evidence in criminal capacity of neighbouring countries proceedings, in terms of both to combat organised crime, including apprehending criminals and tracking through closer cooperation with the location of victims. Estonia Ukraine. will hold a wide-based discussion in order to find a European Union level solution for the retention of Estonia will direct its efforts to communication data. achieving agreements on intensifying the fight against the financing of terrorism and organised crime and A well-managed migration on prosecuting serious cross-border policy is needed for the crime. The European Union needs to development and security of strengthen its capacity to counter the European Union money laundering under criminal law to ensure that crimes related to Migration policy requires a systematic money laundering are prosecuted approach that takes into account in the European Union on the basis both internal and external aspects of uniform principles. The existing and focuses attention on the long- European Union legislative framework term perspective of the migration on mutual recognition of criminal policy. asset freezing and confiscation orders also needs to be modernised. A freezing or confiscation order The Estonian Presidency will issued in one Member State must be continue the implementation of the quickly and efficiently recognised and partnership frameworks between applicable in other Member States. the European Union and third countries in cooperation with the main countries of origin and transit to The possibility of using e-evidence ease migratory pressures. As a well- and retaining communication data functioning return policy is an integral is a prerequisite in the effective fight part of migration management, the against terrorism and other types EU must assist countries of origin of crime. The improved availability through development cooperation

14 EU2017.EE and investment, emphasising their An effective migration policy obligation to readmit third country would contribute positively to nationals. It is also essential to Europe’s economic growth and implement the Valletta Action Plan competitiveness. Estonia wants and the European Union Action to focus more attention on legal Plan on Return together with its migration, and in particular to recommendations, which are de- promote the legal migration of highly signed to curb illegal migration. skilled labour and simplify internal We must also monitor all actions mobility. Estonia will continue to and developments related to third pursue an agreement on the renewal countries, in order to swiftly respond of the European Union Blue Card to changing circumstances. directive.

A well-managed external border Estonia will also continue work on is the cornerstone of an effective modernising the Common European migration policy. Estonia will continue Asylum System to ensure its proper the efforts to reinforce the European functioning and uniform conditions Union’s external border and draw more for people applying for and receiving attention to land border management. asylum in Europe.

EU2017.EE 15 The European Union in a ensure a tangible positive impact globalised world on the lives of the people in our partner countries and to enhance In the area of external policy the the resilience of these countries. Presidency supports the High Strategic communication is essential Representative of the Union for in explaining the European Union’s Foreign Affairs and Security Policy as objectives in the region and making chair of the Foreign Affairs Council in our actions more visible and all its activities. comprehensible. The November Eastern Partnership summit in Brussels will confirm the European Ensuring security, peace and Union’s continued and longstanding stability in Europe’s immediate support for the region. neighbourhood and beyond is an important goal for the EU. Therefore, the implementation of the objectives With regards to the European Union’s of the European Neighbourhood southern neighbourhood, Estonia Policy shall be continued. Estonia intends to promote continued strives to enhance the region’s political dialogue and cooperation economy, democracy, human rights, in the fields of economy and security. rule of law and the promotion of Besides intensifying cooperation prosperity and national resilience to in the security sector – conflict cope with different types of security prevention and management; threats. the fight against terrorism and radicalisation; and combating human trafficking – our southern It is important to promote an neighbours need support in tackling efficient and effectiveEastern Part- socioeconomic challenges. nership by supporting the Eastern Partnership countries´ sovereign choices, increased democracy, Estonia will focus on the promotion economic prosperity and stability. of the digital sector – eGovernment Estonia intends to contribute to and e-services – to facilitate the the strengthening of relations implementation of better and more between the six Eastern Partnership transparent governance in all regions. countries and the European Union. By enhancing dialogue and sec- toral cooperation with the Eastern The summits scheduled for the Partnership countries and by sup- second half of 2017 will provide porting their reforms, we want to an opportunity to strengthen

16 EU2017.EE partnerships with African, as well as with Latin American and Caribbean countries. A renewed EU-Africa partnership offers opportunities for various forms of cooperation, including in the fields of innovation, technology, eGovernment, youth and education. Estonia will continue the preparations for the renewal of the partnership framework between the European Union and the African, Caribbean and the Pacific countries as the ACP-EU Partnership Agreement (Cotonou Agreement) will expire in 2020.

Close transatlantic relations remain important. Therefore, Estonia will support continued dialogue on matters of common concern and interest, including the international fight against terrorism, cyber threats and trade.

Estonia will continue to support the implementation of the European Union enlargement policy within the broader framework of security, stability, democracy and rule of law in Europe. The Estonian approach is based on the understanding that countries, which respect and promote the core values of the European Union and meet the strict and fair conditionality, should be able to advance in the enlargement process.

EU2017.EE 17 In development cooperation, Battlegroups. Estonia supports and Estonia will continue contributing to contributes to the discussions on the implementation of the United Permanent Structured Cooperation Nations Sustainable Development (PESCO), the Coordinated Annual Goals both inside and outside of Review on Defence (CARD) and the European Union. During the a European Defence Action Plan Presidency, the European Fund (EDAP). Estonia supports the Com- for Sustainable Development will mission’s initiatives, in particular in be established under the External the field of defence research and Investment Plan to mobilise development and in strengthening additional resources to fund the European defence industrial sustainable development in partner base in order to create better countries. opportunities for involving and funding the small and medium size enterprises operating in the sector. Regarding humanitarian aid, particular focus will be placed on protracted displacement. In the In a new security environment, World Humanitarian Summit follow- identifying hybrid threats, increasing up process, Estonia will focus on the awareness of such threats and aid effectiveness and innovative stepping up resilience measures solutions in humanitarian aid. have become essential to enable timely responses to threats. Estonia continues to contribute to the Closer defence cooperation European Union’s early warning and increased defence system and to promote exchanges of spending will strengthen experience between institutions and security in Europe Member States. All the tools at the disposal of the European Union and In the field of European defence NATO are required to tackle hybrid cooperation, Estonia will seek to and cyber threats. Estonia supports enhance military capabilities of the EU-NATO cooperation through European Union Member States, practical actions in accordance including determining the level of with the EU-NATO joint declaration defence spending and investments of 2016 and contributes to the of the Member States and reaching cooperation objectives in the field of agreement on the revision of the cyber defence, including organising common funding of European Union mutually open and coordinated operations, notably to increase exercises. the usability of European Union

18 EU2017.EE DIGITAL EUROPE AND THE FREE MOVEMENT OF DATA

A strong single market supporting on the Commission’s Digital Single growth and jobs must be connected Market strategy measures. We also and keep pace with both new want to advance discussions on the technological developments and future of eGovernment, cyber security the increasing digitisation of society. and the free movement of data, which Information and communications are essential for the European Union’s technology are no longer a specific economy. Estonia will organise a sector; they are the backbone of all range of events and a digital summit modern innovative economic systems. for open-minded discussions about The internet and digital technologies Europe’s digital future. change lives, jobs and societies, and they are integrated across all economic sectors and walks of life. However, The free movement of data is technological progress also involves essential for the development risks to our security and democracy, of a digital society while at the same time offering new opportunities for defending our values. With technological progress, data has become a resource and a key driver of social development and economic Europe must keep pace with growth. The European Union is in technological progress and fully exploit the early stages of a data-driven its potential. This will contribute to economy. The Estonian Presidency improving the everyday lives of citizens, intends to stress the need to develop businesses and Member States. a digital society in all areas of life. Estonia’s goal is to make progress

EU2017.EE 19 The European Union should end the contribute to the technology-based unjustified data location restrictions universal digitisation of the economy. of non-personal data, achieve legal In creating a favourable environment clarity on the ownership of non- for new services, it is important to personal data and ensure the reliable ensure modern, accessible and storage and exchange of data based secure electronic communications on the ‘once-only’ principle in the across Europe by taking a major step public sector. Estonia is planning a forward towards a Gigabit Society, broad debate on the free movement including the establishment of the of data and on measures boosting European Electronic Communications the data economy. Code.

High-speed, high-quality The proposed Single Digital Gateway and widely available internet for simplifying cross-border service connection is the mainstay of provision is also an important means a smart data-driven economy of fostering entrepreneurship. It makes it easier for companies to enter the Smart economy is based on the markets of other Member States, to interoperability of data resources and navigate these markets and to obtain digital technologies for the purpose information about local rules and of achieving economic success and public services. the well-being of citizens. In order to promote smart economy in Europe, we need to focus on the initiatives that

20 EU2017.EE The development of services contributes to ensuring the e-commerce and e-services fair treatment of market participants, broadens the choice for creates favourable conditions for Europeans the development of such services and gives consumers more choice. The Estonian Presidency focuses on Estonia seeks to reach an agreement the development of cross-border on amending the Audiovisual Media e-commerce and e-services for Services Directive. the benefit of both consumers and companies. A precondition for well- functioning e-commerce in Europe is Public e-services simplify also the protection of consumer interests cross-border formalities wherever they may live. In order to end unjustified geo-blocking in the The EU eGovernment Action Plan European Union, an agreement must 2016-2020 aims to develop well- be reached on the geo-blocking functioning cross-border digital public regulation. In the absence of uniform services to reduce the administrative contract law rules on the supply of burden on businesses and citizens by digital content and internet sales is a making their interactions with public barrier to e-commerce. Estonia seeks administrations easier and faster. to move forward with negotiations on a Estonia wishes to ensure a sustainable contract law package to ensure legal and efficient implementation of the certainty and clarity for entrepreneurs Action Plan and to accelerate the and consumers engaged in cross- adoption of electronic identification border trade. (eID) and trust services.

As copyright law must keep up with Estonia intends to give attention to the development of digital solutions, the application of the eGovernment Estonia seeks to move forward with the principles in the initiatives launched copyright reform. Under new market in all sectors. The Presidency intends conditions, cross-border access to to launch a forward-looking debate a wider variety of digital content culminating in the Tallinn declaration protected by copyright should be on eGovernment – a common under- further facilitated by such measures standing of Member States on how to as levelling the free use regulation achieve an efficient eGovernment in of protected works, while ensuring the European Union, also in a cross- the functioning of a fair market in border context. Estonia strives for an terms of copyright. Updating the eGovernment supporting the single legal area of audiovisual media market and built on the important

EU2017.EE 21 principles of a well-functioning digital atically promoting the use of digital society: the ‘digital by default’, ‘once- solutions as a lever of development only’ and ‘no-legacy’ principles and within the European Union devel- the free movement of data. opment policy.

We also want to launch a discussion Trust and security are crucial to promote cooperation and coor- for the development of a dination on e-health in order to digital society create the necessary preconditions for a wider use and cross-border The development of a digital movement of health data for the society has opened up many new purposes of treatment, research and opportunities, while making us more innovation and to promote data- vulnerable, creating new risks and based innovation in healthcare. To this exacerbating existing risks, such as end, we want to focus European Union the malicious use of technology. In cooperation on practical solutions cyberspace, Europe must also stand that give people electronic access by its values and protect its security. to and greater control over the use of their health data as well as enable them to consent to securely share Estonia promotes European Union their health data for the purposes of wide cooperation in the field of e-services. cybersecurity, acknowledging the field as a source of opportunity rather than an obstacle. To that end, Today, information technology is it is essential to update the European widely used in judicial procedures Union cybersecurity strategy and and in providing European Union the mandate of the European Union citizens with better access to justice. Agency for Network and Information As all people have the right of access Security (ENISA). Bringing eprivacy to effective justice, the Estonian legislation in line with today’s needs Presidency wants to contribute to the and the objectives of the data development of and to ensuring the protection reform will contribute sustainability of e-justice. to increasing the level of trust. Estonia wants to move forward with the negotiations on the ePrivacy Estonia will also contribute to the Regulation. uptake of digital solutions and technologies outside the European Union by horizontally and system-

22 EU2017.EE EU2017.EE 23 INCLUSIVE AND SUSTAINABLE EUROPE

People’s quality of life is affected An inclusive Europe supports by the environment around them. equal opportunities for all Sustainable development can only be achieved if all economic, social and In order to ensure society’s environmental issues are addressed sustainability and Europe’s economic in a coordinated and integrated and social prosperity in the context of manner. In line with the United an ageing and declining population, Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable everyone across Europe must Development, Europe must ensure have equal opportunities for the a clean and caring environment for development of skills, high-quality present and future generations. This education, employment and access requires the sustainable and efficient to services. An evolving society management of natural resources and technological progress have and a social order that offers changed the nature of work and led sustainable solutions. An inclusive and to new forms of work. This entails the sustainable Europe helps its citizens redefining of the roles of the employer adapt to change and supports equal and the employee and the need to opportunities for all to stay active as adapt working conditions, skills and long as possible and to live a long and social security systems accordingly. healthy life. The primary responsibility for reducing social gaps continues to lie with each Member State. Estonia wants to focus on the moderni- sation of education and the labour market to ensure that knowledge and skills, including digital skills, are

24 EU2017.EE keeping up with these changes. children, the elderly and other de- In order to strengthen Europe’s pendent family members affects the competitiveness, it is essential to participation of women in the labour invest in the development of skills market and the participation of men in and to move forward with the family life. Estonia intends to continue initiatives triggered by the New Skills the debate on the reconciliation Agenda and subsequent Commission of family life to increase women’s initiatives on youth and education. participation in the labour market and The Estonian Presidency intends to reduce their care burden. to focus on creating better links between education and the labour market. We will continue to review Opening up new opportunities the Europass Decision to achieve a for young people supports better implementation and synergy the development of a strong between the digital tools designed society for documenting people’s skills and qualifications, and to modernise these An economically sustainable and tools for the digital age. competitive Europe must open up new opportunities for young Europeans by promoting the development Estonia proposes a broad discussion of competences, inclusion, active on the future of work and the participation and voluntary activities accompanying opportunities, includ- in society. We want to highlight ing national e-solutions. To ensure an the role of smart youth work in inclusive Europe, Estonia will contribute achieving these objectives. During to creating better opportunities the Estonian Presidency, discussions for people with special needs to will continue on the common ground participate in societal life. To that for EU cooperation in the field of end, we need to achieve a speedy youth work and youth policy from agreement on the Accessibility Act, 2019 onwards. Estonia’s goal is to to which the Estonian Presidency will create more opportunities for young significantly contribute. people to have a say in these discussions. The Estonian Presidency can contribute to the establishment An increasing need for qualified of the European Solidarity Corps to labour and ensuring high-quality create opportunities for young people working life requires further promotion to contribute, through voluntary of gender equality, including support work and professional activities, to for the work-life balance. The un- addressing the significant challenges equal division of labour in caring for facing society.

EU2017.EE 25 The freedom of movement is a limiting climate change. First and pillar of the European Union and foremost, this will entail the revision must continue to function smoothly of the current EU Emissions Trading System (ETS), as well as reducing The free movement of persons, workers emissions from sectors falling outside and services in the European Union the ETS, such as transport, agriculture, internal market and the supporting small-scale energy production, waste social guarantees must be properly management and other sectors. In ensured. Estonia focuses on the addition, the land use and forestry modernisation of social security sector must also be integrated in the coordination rules and successful larger European greenhouse gas negotiations on regulating the emissions reduction system in order to posting of workers, which is essential reach the targets set under the Paris in the context of the internal market. Agreement. There is no doubt that In order to ensure quick and easy attention must be paid to energy access to social benefits by people efficiency in order to achieve the using the freedom of movement, new objectives of the EU climate and e-solutions should be introduced. energy policies. Estonia intends to continue work on the energy efficiency directives. We also intend to work actively on the proposals of the new European Union mobility package in order to contribute Our ever-intensifying economy must to the functioning of an open and fair find solutions to challenges posed by road transport market. limited resources and environmental pollution. In order to ensure sustainable growth, we must change existing The implementation of the Paris production and consumption Agreement and transitioning to patterns, and this can best be an environmentally sustainable achieved through the introduction of economy will ensure a cleaner innovative and smart solutions with living environment reduced environmental impacts in the spheres of manufacturing, business Climate change is increasingly affecting models, consumption as well as the natural environment and people’s spatial planning and development. quality of life. To achieve a better living Europe is striving to transition to a environment, the European Union must resource-efficient circular economy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions which focuses on the reuse, repair, as agreed in the Paris Agreement, and recycling of existing materials a landmark global agreement on and products. Therefore, Estonia aims

26 EU2017.EE to make substantial progress with negotiations on waste legislation and to initiate discussions on promoting environmentally friendly and eco- innovative IT solutions along with new cooperation platforms in the larger framework of transitioning to circular economy and promoting environmentally-aware consumption.

In the context of circular economy, it is also important to promote the wider use of innovative fertilisers and offer a more diverse range of fertilisers to agricultural producers in order to make food production more cost-effective and resource-efficient. To attain this goal, it is essential to reach agreement on the Fertilising Products Regulation, to which the Estonian Presidency will contribute.

One of the goals of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is the restoration of degraded land and soil. The European Union has both the need and potential for a more effective protection of soils as a resource, as the current policy only contributes to this goal indirectly. Estonia is planning to launch a broad- based discussion on the protection of agricultural soil and its importance in sustainable food production. In this regard, Estonia emphasises the importance of the greater use of digital soil data at the European Union level.

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