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Establishing the exchange, assistance and training programme for the protection of the euro against counterfeiting for the period 2028-2034 (the 'Pericles V' programme) and repealing Regulation (EU) 2021/840
Full title
Establishing the exchange, assistance and training programme for the protection of the euro against counterfeiting for the period 2028-2034 (the 'Pericles V' programme) and repealing Regulation (EU) 2021/840
Document LIBE-AM-790750 · COM(2025)0462 – 2025/0258(COD)
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- Amendment list LIBE-AM-790750
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- 30 June 2026
- Committee
- Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs
- Dossier
- 2025-0258
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- COM(2025)0462 – 2025/0258(COD)
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| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (1) The Union and the Member States have set themselves the objective of laying down the measures necessary for the use of the euro as a single currency. Those measures include protecting the euro against counterfeiting and counterfeiting-related fraud, thus strengthening the trust of citizens and business in the genuineness of the euro and therefore contributing to ensuring the effective functioning of the euro, safeguarding fiscal and financial stability in the Union and fostering the international use of the euro for trade, financial services and investment. | (1) The Union and the Member States have set themselves the objective of laying down the measures necessary for the use of the euro as a single currency. Those measures include protecting the euro against counterfeiting and counterfeiting-related fraud, thus strengthening the trust of citizens and business in the genuineness of the euro and therefore contributing to ensuring the effective functioning of the Economic and Monetary Union. |
The proposed amendment maintains the main objective of the programme, which is to protect the euro against counterfeiting and strengthen confidence in the common currency. It also deletes references to supporting the international use of the euro and broader monetary policy objectives that go beyond the Pericles programme. This ensures an appropriate link between the objectives of the programme and the instruments provided for in the regulation.
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (1a) Counterfeiting and counterfeiting-related fraud cause direct economic harm to citizens and businesses, which may suffer financial losses when counterfeit euro banknotes and coins enter circulation. Such criminal activities also undermine public confidence in the integrity and reliability of the euro, affecting trust in the single currency and its effective functioning. |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (2a) Actions with the aim of promoting exchanges of information and staff, technical and scientific assistance and specialised training help significantly to protect the Union’s single currency against counterfeiting and related fraud, and therefore to attain a high and equivalent level of protection across the Union, whilst demonstrating the Union’s ability to tackle serious organised crime. Such actions could also help address the common challenges in combatting organised crime, including money laundering. |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (3) Past support for such actions, through Council Decisions 2001/923/EC4 and 2001/924/EC5, which established the first Pericles programme and were subsequently amended and extended by Council Decisions 2006/75/EC, 2006/76/EC, 2006/849/EC, 2006/850/EC, and Regulations (EU) No 331/20146 and (EU) 2021/840 of the European Parliament and of the Council7, have enhanced the actions of the Union and the Member States in the field of the protection of the euro against counterfeiting. Through these different acts, the Pericles programme has successfully contributed to ensuring the protection of the euro against counterfeiting. | (3) Past support for such actions, through Council Decisions 2001/923/EC4 and 2001/924/EC5, which established the first Pericles programme and were subsequently amended and extended by Council Decisions 2006/75/EC, 2006/76/EC, 2006/849/EC, 2006/850/EC, and Regulations (EU) No 331/20146 and (EU) 2021/840 of the European Parliament and of the Council7, have enhanced the actions of the Union and the Member States in the field of the protection of the euro against counterfeiting. The Pericles programme has contributed to cooperation, information exchange and training in the field of protecting the euro against counterfeiting. |
| 4 Council Decision 2001/923/EC of 17 December 2001 establishing an exchange, assistance and training programme for the protection of the euro against counterfeiting (the ‘Pericles’ programme) (OJ L 339, 21.12.2001, p. 50, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec/2001/923/oj). | 4 Council Decision 2001/923/EC of 17 December 2001 establishing an exchange, assistance and training programme for the protection of the euro against counterfeiting (the ‘Pericles’ programme) (OJ L 339, 21.12.2001, p. 50, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec/2001/923/oj). |
| 5 Council Decision 2001/924/EC of 17 December 2001 extending the effects of the Decision establishing an exchange, assistance and training programme for the protection of the euro against counterfeiting (‘Pericles’ programme) to the Member States which have not adopted the euro as the single currency (OJ L 339, 21.12.2001, p. 55, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec/2001/924/oj). | 5 Council Decision 2001/924/EC of 17 December 2001 extending the effects of the Decision establishing an exchange, assistance and training programme for the protection of the euro against counterfeiting (‘Pericles’ programme) to the Member States which have not adopted the euro as the single currency (OJ L 339, 21.12.2001, p. 55, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec/2001/924/oj). |
| 6 Regulation (EU) No 331/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 March 2014 establishing an exchange, assistance and training programme for the protection of the euro against counterfeiting (the ‘Pericles 2020’ programme) and repealing Council Decisions 2001/923/EC, 2001/924/EC, 2006/75/EC, 2006/76/EC, 2006/849/EC and 2006/850/EC (OJ L 103, 5.4.2014, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2014/331/oj). | 6 Regulation (EU) No 331/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 March 2014 establishing an exchange, assistance and training programme for the protection of the euro against counterfeiting (the ‘Pericles 2020’ programme) and repealing Council Decisions 2001/923/EC, 2001/924/EC, 2006/75/EC, 2006/76/EC, 2006/849/EC and 2006/850/EC (OJ L 103, 5.4.2014, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2014/331/oj). |
| 7 Regulation (EU) 2021/840 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 May 2021 establishing an exchange, assistance and training programme for the protection of the euro against counterfeiting for the period 2021-2027 (the ‘Pericles IV’ programme), and repealing Regulation (EU) No 331/2014 (OJ L 186, 27.5.2021, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2021/840/oj). | 7 Regulation (EU) 2021/840 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 May 2021 establishing an exchange, assistance and training programme for the protection of the euro against counterfeiting for the period 2021-2027 (the ‘Pericles IV’ programme), and repealing Regulation (EU) No 331/2014 (OJ L 186, 27.5.2021, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2021/840/oj). |
The proposed amendment replaces a general assessment of the ‘success’ of the programme with a description of the specific areas to which it contributed. This reinforces the factual nature of the recital and ensures that conclusions are based on objectively verifiable facts rather than general evaluative statements.
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (4) In that respect, in its Communication on the results of the interim evaluation of the Pericles IV programme8 , the Commission concluded that the current implementing structure of Pericles IV programme is generally effective, efficient, and sustainable and remains relevant in adapting to evolving threats. The Pericles IV programme addresses a critical gap in many Member States, where resources for organising international and multidisciplinary training on euro counterfeiting are often limited. By providing targeted support, the programme strengthens the Union’s capacity to combat euro counterfeiting and supports the development of new relationships, networks and transnational cooperation efforts. Therefore, the Pericles programme should be continued beyond 2028. | (4) In that respect, in its Communication on the results of the interim evaluation of the Pericles IV programme8 , the Commission concluded that the current implementing structure of Pericles IV programme is generally effective, efficient, and sustainable and remains relevant in adapting to evolving threats. The Pericles IV programme addresses a critical gap in many Member States, where resources for organising international and multidisciplinary training on euro counterfeiting are often limited. By providing targeted support, the programme strengthens the Union’s capacity to combat euro counterfeiting and supports the development of new relationships, networks and transnational cooperation efforts. The success of the programme lies in its clearly defined scope, focusing on the specific objective of protecting the euro against counterfeiting and counterfeiting-related fraud, including a future digital euro. Therefore, the Pericles programme should be continued beyond 2028 with that same scope. |
| 8 Communication from the Commission to European Parliament, the Council and the European Central Bank on the interim evaluation of the Programme for exchange, assistance and training for the protection of the euro against counterfeiting ('Pericles IV' Programme), COM(2025) 54 final. | 8 Communication from the Commission to European Parliament, the Council and the European Central Bank on the interim evaluation of the Programme for exchange, assistance and training for the protection of the euro against counterfeiting ('Pericles IV' Programme), COM(2025) 54 final. |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (4) In that respect, in its Communication on the results of the interim evaluation of the Pericles IV programme8, the Commission concluded that the current implementing structure of Pericles IV programme is generally effective, efficient, and sustainable and remains relevant in adapting to evolving threats. The Pericles IV programme addresses a critical gap in many Member States, where resources for organising international and multidisciplinary training on euro counterfeiting are often limited. By providing targeted support, the programme strengthens the Union’s capacity to combat euro counterfeiting and supports the development of new relationships, networks and transnational cooperation efforts. Therefore, the Pericles programme should be continued beyond 2028. | (4) In that respect, in its Communication on the results of the interim evaluation of the Pericles IV programme, the Commission concluded that the current implementing structure of Pericles IV programme remains relevant in adapting to evolving threats. The Pericles IV programme addresses a critical gap in many Member States, where resources for organising international and multidisciplinary training on euro counterfeiting are often limited. By providing targeted support, the programme strengthens the Union’s capacity to combat euro counterfeiting and supports the development of new relationships, networks and transnational cooperation efforts. Therefore, the Pericles programme should be continued beyond 2028. |
| 8 Communication from the Commission to European Parliament, the Council and the European Central Bank on the interim evaluation of the Programme for exchange, assistance and training for the protection of the euro against counterfeiting ('Pericles IV' Programme), COM(2025) 54 final. |
The mid-term evaluation of the programme constitutes the Commission’s opinion. Terms such as ‘effective’, ‘efficient’ and ‘sustainable’ are evaluative in nature and leaving them in the recital could create the impression that these are undisputed findings. It is more appropriate to focus on the specific benefits of the program, which are described further in the text, and leave room for a future overall evaluation of the program after its implementation is complete.
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (4a) Independent evaluations of the Pericles IV programme show that it plays a key role in preventing and combatting euro counterfeiting, helping to protect the integrity of euro banknotes and coins. The programme strengthens information exchange, technical expertise, institutional cooperation, and operational capacity, while supporting networking and joint investigations that have led to seizures of counterfeit euros and the disruption of criminal networks. It is efficient in its use of resources and complements the work of other Union bodies, including the European Central Bank and Europol. To remain effective, it must continue to adapt to emerging threats such as digital currencies, more sophisticated counterfeits, altered-design banknotes, and the growing online availability of counterfeit materials. |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (5) The protection of the European single currency as a public good has a clear transnational dimension, and therefore euro protection goes beyond the interest and the responsibility of individual Member States. Considering the cross-border circulation of the euro and the deep involvement of international organised crime in euro counterfeiting, national protection frameworks should be complemented by Union initiative to ensure homogeneous national and international cooperation, and to face possible emerging transnational risks. Therefore by establishing the exchange, assistance and training programme for the protection of the euro against counterfeiting, this Regulation is necessary, suitable and appropriate for achieving the objectives of the Programme. The Programme should efficiently strengthen cooperation among the Member States and between the Commission and the Member States, without restricting Member States’ capability to protect the euro against counterfeiting. Action at Union level is justified as it clearly assists Member States in collectively protecting the euro and encourages the use of common Union structures to increase cooperation and information exchange between competent authorities. | (5) The protection of the European single currency as a public good has a clear transnational dimension, and therefore euro protection goes beyond the interest and the responsibility of individual Member States. Considering the cross-border circulation of the euro and the deep involvement of international organised crime in euro counterfeiting, national protection frameworks should be complemented by Union initiative to ensure homogeneous national and international cooperation, and to face possible emerging transnational risks. Therefore by establishing the exchange, assistance and training programme for the protection of the euro against counterfeiting, this Regulation is necessary, suitable and appropriate for achieving the objectives of the Programme. The Programme should efficiently strengthen cooperation among the Member States and between the Commission and the Member States, without restricting Member States’ capability to protect the euro against counterfeiting. The effectiveness of the Programme depends on flexible, operational and timely cooperation between competent authorities and relevant Union institutions, bodies, offices and agencies, including through the regular exchange of information on emerging threats, priorities and best practices. The Commission should therefore carry out all necessary consultations with regard to evaluating the needs for the protection of the euro with the principal parties involved, in particular the competent national authorities designated by Member States, the European Central Bank (ECB) and Europol, within the committee referred to in Regulation (EC) No 1338/2001, particularly as regards exchanges, assistance and training, for the purpose of the application of the Pericles V programme. Moreover, the Commission should draw on the vast experience of the ECB in relation to the conduct of training and the provision of information on counterfeit euro banknotes when implementing the Pericles V programme. Action at Union level is justified as it clearly assists Member States in collectively protecting the euro and encourages the use of common Union structures to increase cooperation and information exchange between competent authorities. |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (5) The protection of the European single currency as a public good has a clear transnational dimension, and therefore euro protection goes beyond the interest and the responsibility of individual Member States. Considering the cross-border circulation of the euro and the deep involvement of international organised crime in euro counterfeiting, national protection frameworks should be complemented by Union initiative to ensure homogeneous national and international cooperation, and to face possible emerging transnational risks. Therefore by establishing the exchange, assistance and training programme for the protection of the euro against counterfeiting, this Regulation is necessary, suitable and appropriate for achieving the objectives of the Programme. The Programme should efficiently strengthen cooperation among the Member States and between the Commission and the Member States, without restricting Member States’ capability to protect the euro against counterfeiting. Action at Union level is justified as it clearly assists Member States in collectively protecting the euro and encourages the use of common Union structures to increase cooperation and information exchange between competent authorities. | (5) The protection of the European single currency as a public good has a clear transnational dimension, and therefore euro protection goes beyond the interest and the responsibility of individual Member States. Considering the cross-border circulation of the euro and the deep involvement of international organised crime in euro counterfeiting, national protection frameworks should be complemented by Union initiative to ensure homogeneous national and international cooperation, and to face possible emerging transnational risks. Therefore by establishing the exchange, assistance and training programme for the protection of the euro against counterfeiting, this Regulation is necessary, suitable and appropriate for achieving the objectives of the Programme. The Programme should efficiently strengthen cooperation among the Member States and between the Commission and the Member States, without restricting Member States’ capability to protect the euro against counterfeiting. Action at Union level is justified as it clearly assists Member States in collectively protecting the euro and encourages the use of common Union structures to increase cooperation and information exchange between competent authorities. The continued availability and integrity of euro cash remain of particular importance for many citizens across the Union. Cash is the only means of payment that is universally accessible, irrespective of digital skills, access to banking services, or technological infrastructure. It is especially important for vulnerable persons, older people, and those living in remote or underserved areas, who may face difficulties in relying exclusively on electronic means of payment. Ensuring effective protection of euro banknotes and coins against counterfeiting is therefore essential not only for preserving confidence in the single currency, but also for safeguarding financial inclusion and equal access to payments throughout the Union. |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (5) The protection of the European single currency as a public good has a clear transnational dimension, and therefore euro protection goes beyond the interest and the responsibility of individual Member States. Considering the cross-border circulation of the euro and the deep involvement of international organised crime in euro counterfeiting, national protection frameworks should be complemented by Union initiative to ensure homogeneous national and international cooperation, and to face possible emerging transnational risks. Therefore by establishing the exchange, assistance and training programme for the protection of the euro against counterfeiting, this Regulation is necessary, suitable and appropriate for achieving the objectives of the Programme. The Programme should efficiently strengthen cooperation among the Member States and between the Commission and the Member States, without restricting Member States’ capability to protect the euro against counterfeiting. Action at Union level is justified as it clearly assists Member States in collectively protecting the euro and encourages the use of common Union structures to increase cooperation and information exchange between competent authorities. | (5) The protection of the European single currency has due to the transnational dimension of the euro and the international character of counterfeiting activities, an important transnational dimension. National measures to protect the euro can be supported by cooperation between Member States and the relevant Union authorities. Therefore by establishing the exchange, assistance and training programme for the protection of the euro against counterfeiting, its objective is to support the exchange of experience, training and cooperation between the competent authorities. The programme should contribute to the exchange of information and cooperation in the protection of the euro against counterfeiting, without prejudice to the competences of the Member States in this area. |
Protecting the euro against counterfeiting undoubtedly requires cooperation between Member States. However, this does not in itself mean that it is necessary to formulate general conclusions about the superiority or necessity of action at Union level. The proposed amendment maintains the emphasis on practical cooperation and exchange of information, while respecting the fact that Member States bear primary responsibility for the protection of the currency within their territory.
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (5) The protection of the European single currency as a public good has a clear transnational dimension, and therefore euro protection goes beyond the interest and the responsibility of individual Member States. Considering the cross-border circulation of the euro and the deep involvement of international organised crime in euro counterfeiting, national protection frameworks should be complemented by Union initiative to ensure homogeneous national and international cooperation, and to face possible emerging transnational risks. Therefore by establishing the exchange, assistance and training programme for the protection of the euro against counterfeiting, this Regulation is necessary, suitable and appropriate for achieving the objectives of the Programme. The Programme should efficiently strengthen cooperation among the Member States and between the Commission and the Member States, without restricting Member States’ capability to protect the euro against counterfeiting. Action at Union level is justified as it clearly assists Member States in collectively protecting the euro and encourages the use of common Union structures to increase cooperation and information exchange between competent authorities. | (5) The protection of the European single currency as a public good has a clear transnational dimension, and therefore euro protection goes beyond the interest and the responsibility of individual Member States. Considering the cross-border circulation of the euro and the deep involvement of international organised crime in euro counterfeiting, national protection frameworks should be complemented by Union initiative to ensure homogeneous national and international cooperation, and to face possible emerging transnational risks. Therefore by establishing the exchange, assistance and training programme for the protection of the euro against counterfeiting, this Regulation is necessary, suitable and appropriate for achieving the objectives of the Programme. The Programme should efficiently strengthen cooperation among the Member States and between the Commission and the Member States, without restricting the powers of the Member States’ enforcement authorities and their capability to protect the euro against counterfeiting. Action at Union level is justified as it clearly assists Member States in collectively protecting the euro and encourages the use of common Union structures to increase cooperation and information exchange between competent authorities in cases where the enforcement authority of a Member State deems it necessary. |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (5a) Cash still plays a key role in Europe’s economy and societies, because it ensures economic participation, protection of privacy and continuity of payments in the event of disruption and situations where electronic payment systems are unavailable. There is thus a direct link between the fight against counterfeiting and the reliability of the entire payment system and ensuring its operability in all circumstances. Measures under the Pericles V programme should support the authorities of the Member States in ensuring that the authenticity of money can be verified effectively so that citizens and businesses can continue to trust cash as a payment instrument. The objectives of the programme should therefore be to promote the role of cash as a fundamental pillar of a free, open society, while at the same time fighting crime. |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (7) In a rapidly changing economic, social and geopolitical environment, recent experience has shown the need for a more flexible multiannual financial framework and Union spending programmes. To that effect, and in line with the objectives of this Regulation, the funding should duly consider the evolving policy needs and Union’s priorities as identified in relevant documents published by the Commission, in Council conclusions and European Parliament resolutions while ensuring sufficient predictability for the budget implementation. | (7) In a rapidly changing economic, social and geopolitical environment, it is necessary to ensure the sound and predictable implementation of Union programmes. Funding under the programme should be used in line with the objectives laid down in this Regulation and while maintaining budgetary predictability throughout its implementation period. |
The Pericles programme is narrowly focused on protecting the euro against counterfeiting. References to future ‘political needs and priorities of the Union’ create scope for expanding the purpose of the programme beyond the objectives approved by the co-legislators. Funding should remain tied to the tasks explicitly mentioned in the regulation in order to maintain legal certainty, budgetary predictability and control over the use of public funds.
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (7) In a rapidly changing economic, social and geopolitical environment, recent experience has shown the need for a more flexible multiannual financial framework and Union spending programmes. To that effect, and in line with the objectives of this Regulation, the funding should duly consider the evolving policy needs and Union’s priorities as identified in relevant documents published by the Commission, in Council conclusions and European Parliament resolutions while ensuring sufficient predictability for the budget implementation. | (7) In a rapidly changing economic and geopolitical environment, recent experience has shown the need for an economically disciplined and prioritised financial framework and Union spending programmes. To that effect, and in line with the objectives of this Regulation, the funding should duly consider the evolving policy needs and Union’s priorities as identified in relevant documents published by the Commission, in Council conclusions and European Parliament resolutions while ensuring sufficient predictability for the budget implementation. |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (8a) Measures under the Pericles V programme should focus exclusively on protecting the euro from counterfeiting, so as to avoid any administrative uncertainty and overlap with the Union’s other programmes. |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
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| (9) In accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509, Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council10 , Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 2988/9511 , Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/9612 and Council Regulation (EU) 2017/193913 , the financial interests of the Union are to be protected through proportionate measures, including the prevention, detection, correction and investigation of irregularities and fraud, the recovery of funds lost, wrongly paid or incorrectly used and, where appropriate, the imposition of administrative sanctions. In particular, in accordance with Regulations (Euratom) No 883/2013 and (Euratom, EC) No 2185/96 the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) may carry out investigations, including on-the-spot checks and inspections, with a view to establishing whether there has been fraud, corruption or any other illegal activity affecting the financial interests of the Union. In accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/1939, the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO) may investigate and prosecute fraud, corruption 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 Council14 . In accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509, any person or entity receiving Union funds is to fully cooperate in the protection of the Union’s financial interests, to grant the necessary rights and access to the Commission, OLAF, the EPPO and the European Court of Auditors and to ensure that any third parties involved in the implementation of Union funds grant equivalent rights. | (9) In accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509, Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council10 , Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 2988/9511 , Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/9612 and Council Regulation (EU) 2017/193913 , the financial interests of the Union are to be protected through proportionate measures, including the prevention, detection, correction and investigation of irregularities and fraud, the recovery of funds lost, wrongly paid or incorrectly used and, where appropriate, the imposition of administrative sanctions. In particular, in accordance with Regulations (Euratom) No 883/2013 and (Euratom, EC) No 2185/96 the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) may carry out investigations, including on-the-spot checks and inspections, with a view to establishing whether there has been fraud, corruption or any other illegal activity affecting the financial interests of the Union. In accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/1939, the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO) may investigate and prosecute fraud, corruption 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 Council14 . In accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509, any person or entity receiving Union funds is to fully cooperate in the protection of the Union’s financial interests, to grant the necessary rights and access to the Commission, OLAF, the EPPO and the European Court of Auditors and to ensure that any third parties involved in the implementation of Union funds grant equivalent rights. It is important to ensure that the implementation of the Programme remains coherent, complementary and well-coordinated with the activities carried out by relevant Union institutions, bodies, offices and agencies, including the European Central Bank, Europol, Eurojust and the Anti-Money Laundering Authority (AMLA), in order to maximise synergies, avoid duplication of efforts and strengthen the overall effectiveness of EU response to euro counterfeiting and related financial crime. |
| 10 Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 September 2013 concerning investigations conducted by the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) and repealing Regulation (EC) No 1073/1999 of the European Parliament and of the Council and Council Regulation (Euratom) No 1074/1999 (OJ L 248, 18.9.2013, p. 1., ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2013/883/oj) | 10 Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 September 2013 concerning investigations conducted by the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) and repealing Regulation (EC) No 1073/1999 of the European Parliament and of the Council and Council Regulation (Euratom) No 1074/1999 (OJ L 248, 18.9.2013, p. 1., ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2013/883/oj) |
| 11 Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 2988/95 of 18 December 1995 on the protection of the European Communities financial interests (OJ L 312, 23.12.95, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/1995/2988/oj). | 11 Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 2988/95 of 18 December 1995 on the protection of the European Communities financial interests (OJ L 312, 23.12.95, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/1995/2988/oj). |
| 12 Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/96 of 11 November 1996 concerning on-the-spot checks and inspections carried out by the Commission in order to protect the European Communities' financial interests against fraud and other irregularities (OJ L 292,15.11.96, p. 2, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/1996/2185/oj). | 12 Council Regulation (Euratom, EC) No 2185/96 of 11 November 1996 concerning on-the-spot checks and inspections carried out by the Commission in order to protect the European Communities' financial interests against fraud and other irregularities (OJ L 292,15.11.96, p. 2, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/1996/2185/oj). |
| 13 Council Regulation (EU) 2017/1939 of 12 October 2017 implementing enhanced cooperation on the establishment of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (‘the EPPO’) (OJ L 283, 31.10.2017, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2017/1939/oj). | 13 Council Regulation (EU) 2017/1939 of 12 October 2017 implementing enhanced cooperation on the establishment of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (‘the EPPO’) (OJ L 283, 31.10.2017, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2017/1939/oj). |
| 14 Directive (EU) 2017/1371 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 5 July 2017 on the fight against fraud to the Union's financial interests by means of criminal law (OJ L 198, 28.7.2017, p. 29, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2017/1371/oj). | 14 Directive (EU) 2017/1371 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 5 July 2017 on the fight against fraud to the Union's financial interests by means of criminal law (OJ L 198, 28.7.2017, p. 29, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2017/1371/oj). |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (10) The Programme is to be implemented in accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) 202X/XXXX which establishes the rules for the expenditure tracking and the performance framework for the budget, including rules for ensuring a uniform application of the principles of ‘do no significant harm’ and gender equality referred to in Article 33(2), points (d) and (f), of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 respectively, rules for monitoring and reporting on the performance of Union programmes and activities, rules for establishing a Union funding portal, rules for the evaluation of the programmes, as well as other horizontal provisions applicable to all Union programmes such as those on information, communication and visibility. | (10) The Programme is to be implemented in accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) 202X/XXXX which establishes the rules for the expenditure tracking and the performance framework for the budget, including rules for monitoring and reporting on the performance of Union programmes and activities, rules for establishing a Union funding portal, rules for the evaluation of the programmes, as well as other horizontal provisions applicable to all Union programmes, especially rules on information, communication and visibility. |
The Pericles programme aims to protect the euro against counterfeiting through training, exchange of experience and cooperation between competent authorities. References to the principle of ‘do not significantly disrupt’ and gender equality are not directly related to the subject matter of the programme. Their deletion does not change the way the programme is implemented, but helps to keep the proposal focused on its main purpose and not create additional administrative requirements without a clear substantive link.
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (10) The Programme is to be implemented in accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) 202X/XXXX which establishes the rules for the expenditure tracking and the performance framework for the budget, including rules for ensuring a uniform application of the principles of ‘do no significant harm’ and gender equality referred to in Article 33(2), points (d) and (f), of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 respectively, rules for monitoring and reporting on the performance of Union programmes and activities, rules for establishing a Union funding portal, rules for the evaluation of the programmes, as well as other horizontal provisions applicable to all Union programmes such as those on information, communication and visibility. | (10) The Programme is to be implemented in accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) 202X/XXXX which establishes the rules for the expenditure tracking and the performance framework for the budget, including rules for ensuring a uniform application of the principles of ‘do no significant harm’ referred to in Article 33(2), point (d), of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 respectively, rules for monitoring and reporting on the performance of Union programmes and activities, rules for establishing a Union funding portal, rules for the evaluation of the programmes, as well as other horizontal provisions applicable to all Union programmes such as those on information, communication and visibility. |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
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| (11) Pursuant to Article 85(1) of Council Decision (EU) 2021/176415 , persons and entities established in overseas countries and territories are eligible for funding under the Programme and subject to possible arrangements applicable to the Member State to which the relevant overseas country or territory is linked. | (11) Pursuant to Article 85(1) of Council Decision (EU) 2021/176415 , persons and entities established in all overseas countries and territories are eligible for funding under the Programme and subject to possible arrangements applicable to the Member State to which the relevant overseas country or territory is linked. Given the objective of ensuring a high level of protection of the euro against counterfeiting throughout the Union and in its associated territories, the Programme should remain open to all eligible overseas countries and territories, irrespective of whether they have adopted the euro as their currency or participate in the Schengen area. Counterfeiting activities frequently transcend monetary and border arrangements, making cooperation, training and capacity-building measures in those countries and territories an important component of the Union's overall efforts to protect the integrity of the euro. |
| 15 Council Decision (EU) 2021/1764 of 5 October 2021 on the association of the Overseas Countries and Territories with the European Union including relations between the European Union on the one hand, and Greenland and the Kingdom of Denmark on the other (Decision on the Overseas Association, including Greenland) (OJ L 355, 7.10.2021, p. 6, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec/2021/1764/oj). | 15 Council Decision (EU) 2021/1764 of 5 October 2021 on the association of the Overseas Countries and Territories with the European Union including relations between the European Union on the one hand, and Greenland and the Kingdom of Denmark on the other (Decision on the Overseas Association, including Greenland) (OJ L 355, 7.10.2021, p. 6, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec/2021/1764/oj). |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
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| (11a) The protection of the euro against counterfeiting requires effective international cooperation, given that a significant share of counterfeiting activities affecting the euro originates outside the Union. Counterfeit production sites and organised criminal networks responsible for the manufacture and distribution of counterfeit euro banknotes and coins are frequently located in third countries. The Programme should therefore continue to support cooperation, training, exchange of information, and capacity-building activities involving the competent authorities of those countries, with a view to disrupting counterfeiting operations at their source and preserving the integrity of the euro. |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (12) Actions eligible for funding, with the aim of promoting exchanges of information and staff, technical and scientific assistance and specialised training, help significantly to protect the Union’s single currency against counterfeiting and counterfeiting-related fraud and therefore to attain a high and equivalent level of protection across the Union, whilst demonstrating the Union’s ability to tackle serious organised crime. In order for the Programme to be future-proof, there is a need to maintain the balance between the different types of actions eligible for funding, and the need to maintain its focus on current and emerging threats, including altered-design banknotes and the distribution of counterfeits through the internet. Eligible actions should also cover potential future developments, such as potential threats to the future digital euro, and potential threats posed by and investigational opportunities offered by artificial intelligence. The purchase of equipment to be used by specialised anti-counterfeiting authorities of third countries for protecting the euro against counterfeiting is also vital to provide for an adequate protection of the euro in third countries, but the purchase of equipment should also be accompanied by the training necessary for its use. Therefore, for this type of action, the purchase of equipment should not be the sole component of the action. | (12) Actions eligible for funding under the Pericles V programme, with the aim of promoting exchanges of information and staff, technical and scientific assistance and specialised training, help significantly to protect the Union’s single currency against counterfeiting and counterfeiting-related fraud and therefore to attain a high and equivalent level of protection across the Union, whilst demonstrating the Union’s ability to tackle serious organised crime. In order for the Programme to be future-proof, there is a need to maintain the balance between the different types of actions eligible for funding, and the need to maintain its focus on current and emerging threats, including altered-design banknotes and the distribution of counterfeits through the internet. In this regard, the darknet plays a critical role in the distribution, sale and globalisation of counterfeit euro banknotes by providing a layer of hidden digital infrastructure for organised crime groups. According to Europol’s intelligence, an increasing number of counterfeit currency producers offer their products on darknet marketplaces, along with drugs and other illegal commodities. Eligible actions should also cover potential future developments, such as potential threats to the future digital euro, and potential threats posed by and investigational opportunities offered by artificial intelligence. The purchase of equipment to be used by specialised anti-counterfeiting authorities of third countries for protecting the euro against counterfeiting is also vital to provide for an adequate protection of the euro in third countries, but the purchase of equipment should also be accompanied by the training necessary for its use. Therefore, for this type of action, the purchase of equipment should not be the sole component of the action. |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (12) Actions eligible for funding, with the aim of promoting exchanges of information and staff, technical and scientific assistance and specialised training, help significantly to protect the Union’s single currency against counterfeiting and counterfeiting-related fraud and therefore to attain a high and equivalent level of protection across the Union, whilst demonstrating the Union’s ability to tackle serious organised crime. In order for the Programme to be future-proof, there is a need to maintain the balance between the different types of actions eligible for funding, and the need to maintain its focus on current and emerging threats, including altered-design banknotes and the distribution of counterfeits through the internet. Eligible actions should also cover potential future developments, such as potential threats to the future digital euro, and potential threats posed by and investigational opportunities offered by artificial intelligence. The purchase of equipment to be used by specialised anti-counterfeiting authorities of third countries for protecting the euro against counterfeiting is also vital to provide for an adequate protection of the euro in third countries, but the purchase of equipment should also be accompanied by the training necessary for its use. Therefore, for this type of action, the purchase of equipment should not be the sole component of the action. | (12) Actions eligible for funding, with the aim of promoting exchanges of information and staff, technical and scientific assistance and specialised training, help significantly to protect the Union’s single currency against counterfeiting and counterfeiting-related fraud and therefore to attain a high and equivalent level of protection across the Union, whilst demonstrating the Union’s ability to tackle serious organised crime. In order for the Programme to be future-proof, there is a need to maintain the balance between the different types of actions eligible for funding, and the need to maintain its focus on current and emerging threats, including altered-design banknotes and the distribution of counterfeits through the internet. Eligible actions should also cover potential future developments and potential threats posed by and investigational opportunities offered by artificial intelligence. Artificial intelligence may facilitate the creation of increasingly sophisticated counterfeit banknotes and security features, thereby posing new challenges for law enforcement and competent authorities. At the same time, it offers significant opportunities for the detection, analysis and investigation of counterfeiting activities, including through advanced image recognition, pattern analysis and intelligence-sharing tools. The purchase of equipment to be used by specialised anti-counterfeiting authorities of third countries for protecting the euro against counterfeiting is also vital to provide for an adequate protection of the euro in third countries, but the purchase of equipment should also be accompanied by the training necessary for its use. Therefore, for this type of action, the purchase of equipment should not be the sole component of the action. |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (12) Actions eligible for funding, with the aim of promoting exchanges of information and staff, technical and scientific assistance and specialised training, help significantly to protect the Union’s single currency against counterfeiting and counterfeiting-related fraud and therefore to attain a high and equivalent level of protection across the Union, whilst demonstrating the Union’s ability to tackle serious organised crime. In order for the Programme to be future-proof, there is a need to maintain the balance between the different types of actions eligible for funding, and the need to maintain its focus on current and emerging threats, including altered-design banknotes and the distribution of counterfeits through the internet. Eligible actions should also cover potential future developments, such as potential threats to the future digital euro, and potential threats posed by and investigational opportunities offered by artificial intelligence. The purchase of equipment to be used by specialised anti-counterfeiting authorities of third countries for protecting the euro against counterfeiting is also vital to provide for an adequate protection of the euro in third countries, but the purchase of equipment should also be accompanied by the training necessary for its use. Therefore, for this type of action, the purchase of equipment should not be the sole component of the action. | (12) Actions eligible for funding, with the aim of promoting exchanges of information and staff, technical and scientific assistance and specialised training, help significantly to protect the Union’s single currency against counterfeiting and counterfeiting-related fraud and therefore to attain a high and equivalent level of protection across the Union. In order for the Programme to be future-proof, there is a need to maintain the balance between the different types of actions eligible for funding, and the need to maintain its focus on current and emerging threats, including altered-design banknotes and the distribution of counterfeits through the internet. Eligible actions should also cover future technological developments, and new methods used in counterfeiting and counterfeit detection, including the potential use of artificial intelligence. The purchase of equipment to be used by specialised anti-counterfeiting authorities of third countries for protecting the euro against counterfeiting is also vital to provide for an adequate protection of the euro in third countries, but the purchase of equipment should also be accompanied by the training necessary for its use. Therefore, for this type of action, the purchase of equipment should not be the sole component of the action. |
The purpose of the Pericles programme is to protect the euro against counterfeiting. The recital may therefore not contain general statements on the Union's ability to fight organised crime or references to a future digital euro, the legal framework for which has not yet been adopted. The proposed amendment maintains the focus on practical threats and tools to combat counterfeiting that are directly related to the objective of the program.
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (12) Actions eligible for funding, with the aim of promoting exchanges of information and staff, technical and scientific assistance and specialised training, help significantly to protect the Union’s single currency against counterfeiting and counterfeiting-related fraud and therefore to attain a high and equivalent level of protection across the Union, whilst demonstrating the Union’s ability to tackle serious organised crime. In order for the Programme to be future-proof, there is a need to maintain the balance between the different types of actions eligible for funding, and the need to maintain its focus on current and emerging threats, including altered-design banknotes and the distribution of counterfeits through the internet. Eligible actions should also cover potential future developments, such as potential threats to the future digital euro, and potential threats posed by and investigational opportunities offered by artificial intelligence. The purchase of equipment to be used by specialised anti-counterfeiting authorities of third countries for protecting the euro against counterfeiting is also vital to provide for an adequate protection of the euro in third countries, but the purchase of equipment should also be accompanied by the training necessary for its use. Therefore, for this type of action, the purchase of equipment should not be the sole component of the action. | (Does not affect the English version.) |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (15a) While the overall level of euro counterfeiting remains low, counterfeiting continues to pose a threat to confidence in the single currency. In 2025, approximately 444 000 counterfeit euro banknotes were withdrawn from circulation, representing one of the lowest levels recorded in proportion to the total number of genuine euro banknotes in circulation. Nevertheless, the 20 euro and 50 euro denominations accounted for around 80 % of all counterfeit banknotes detected, and new methods for distributing counterfeits, including through online channels, continue to evolve 23a. Those developments underline the need for continued vigilance and sustained cooperation among the competent authorities involved in protecting the euro. | |
| 23a Press release, European Central Bank. https://www.ecb.europa.eu/press/pr/date/2026/html/ecb.pr260227~66abdc6895.en.html |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
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| (15b) In order to maintain a high and equivalent level of protection of the euro across the Union and to address current and emerging threats, including those related to technological developments and the possible introduction of a digital euro, it is necessary to continue supporting specialised training, information exchange, technical assistance and operational cooperation under the Programme23b. | |
| 23b Press release, European Central Bank. https://www.ecb.europa.eu/press/pr/date/2026/html/ecb.pr260227~66abdc6895.en.html |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
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| 1. The general objective of the Programme is to prevent and combat counterfeiting and counterfeiting-related fraud and preserve the integrity of the euro, thus strengthening the trust of citizens and business in the genuineness of the euro and therefore contributing to ensuring the effective functioning of the euro, safeguarding fiscal and financial stability in the Union and fostering the international use of the euro for trade, financial services and investment. | 1. The general objective of the Programme is to prevent and combat counterfeiting and counterfeiting-related fraud, as well as other emerging threats directly linked to the authenticity, integrity or functioning of the euro, including where such threats concern a future digital euro, thereby preserving the integrity of the euro and strengthening the trust of citizens and businesses in the genuineness of the euro, and therefore contributing to ensuring the effective functioning of the euro, safeguarding fiscal and financial stability in the Union and fostering the international use of the euro for trade, financial services and investment. |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 1. The general objective of the Programme is to prevent and combat counterfeiting and counterfeiting-related fraud and preserve the integrity of the euro, thus strengthening the trust of citizens and business in the genuineness of the euro and therefore contributing to ensuring the effective functioning of the euro, safeguarding fiscal and financial stability in the Union and fostering the international use of the euro for trade, financial services and investment. | 1. The general objective of the Programme is to prevent and combat counterfeiting and counterfeiting-related fraud and preserve the integrity of the euro, thus strengthening the trust of citizens and business in the genuineness of the euro and contributing to ensuring the effective functioning of the euro. |
References to the international status of the euro, fiscal stability, the digital euro or artificial intelligence extend its objectives beyond the purpose for which it was created. The proposed amendment restores the emphasis on practical cooperation, training and exchange of information in the fight against counterfeiting, which have been at the heart of the programme since its inception.
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 1. The general objective of the Programme is to prevent and combat counterfeiting and counterfeiting-related fraud and preserve the integrity of the euro, thus strengthening the trust of citizens and business in the genuineness of the euro and therefore contributing to ensuring the effective functioning of the euro, safeguarding fiscal and financial stability in the Union and fostering the international use of the euro for trade, financial services and investment. | 1. The general objective of the Programme is to prevent and combat counterfeiting and counterfeiting-related fraud and preserve the integrity of the euro, thus strengthening the trust of citizens and business in the genuineness of the euro and therefore contributing to ensuring the effective functioning of the euro, safeguarding fiscal and financial stability in the Union, safeguarding the status of cash as a payment instrument and fostering the international use of the euro for trade, financial services and investment. |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 2. The Programme has the specific objective to protect the euro against counterfeiting and counterfeiting-related fraud, taking also into account potential future developments, such as potential threats to the future digital euro, and potential threats posed by and investigational opportunities offered by artificial intelligence. It does so by supporting and supplementing the measures undertaken by Member States and assisting the competent national and Union authorities in their efforts to develop among themselves and with the Commission a close and regular cooperation and an exchange of best practice, where appropriate including third countries and international organisations. | 2. The Programme has the specific objective to protect the euro against counterfeiting and counterfeiting-related fraud, taking also into account potential future developments, such as potential threats to the future digital euro, and potential threats posed by and investigational opportunities offered by artificial intelligence. It does so by supporting and supplementing the measures undertaken by Member States and assisting the competent national and Union authorities in their efforts to develop among themselves and with the Commission a close and regular cooperation and an exchange of best practice, where appropriate including dependable third countries and, where necessary, international organisations and businesses that play a significant role in the fight against counterfeiting and related crimes. |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 2. The Programme has the specific objective to protect the euro against counterfeiting and counterfeiting-related fraud, taking also into account potential future developments, such as potential threats to the future digital euro, and potential threats posed by and investigational opportunities offered by artificial intelligence. It does so by supporting and supplementing the measures undertaken by Member States and assisting the competent national and Union authorities in their efforts to develop among themselves and with the Commission a close and regular cooperation and an exchange of best practice, where appropriate including third countries and international organisations. | 2. The Programme has the specific objective to protect the euro against counterfeiting and counterfeiting-related fraud. The programme does so by supporting and supplementing the measures undertaken by Member States and assisting the competent national and Union authorities in cooperation, training and exchange on information in the area of protection of the euro against counterfeiting including cooperation with third countries and international organisations, if necessary to achieve the goals of the programmes. |
References to the international status of the euro, fiscal stability, the digital euro or artificial intelligence extend its objectives beyond the purpose for which it was created. The proposed amendment restores the emphasis on practical cooperation, training and exchange of information in the fight against counterfeiting, which have been at the heart of the programme since its inception.
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 2. The Programme has the specific objective to protect the euro against counterfeiting and counterfeiting-related fraud, taking also into account potential future developments, such as potential threats to the future digital euro, and potential threats posed by and investigational opportunities offered by artificial intelligence. It does so by supporting and supplementing the measures undertaken by Member States and assisting the competent national and Union authorities in their efforts to develop among themselves and with the Commission a close and regular cooperation and an exchange of best practice, where appropriate including third countries and international organisations. | 2. The Programme has the specific objective to protect the euro against counterfeiting and counterfeiting-related fraud, taking also into account potential future developments and potential threats posed by and investigational opportunities offered by artificial intelligence. It does so by supporting and supplementing the measures undertaken by Member States and assisting the competent national and Union authorities in their efforts to develop among themselves and with the Commission a close and regular cooperation and an exchange of best practice, where appropriate including relevant third countries and international organisations. |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 3. The financial envelope referred to in paragraph 1 of this Article and the amounts of additional resources referred to in Article 4 may also be used for technical and administrative assistance for the implementation of the Programme, such as preparatory, monitoring, control, audit and evaluation activities, corporate information technology systems and platforms, information, visibility and communication activities, including corporate communication on the political priorities of the Union, and all other technical and administrative assistance or staff-related expenses incurred by the Commission for the management of the Programme. | 3. The financial envelope referred to in paragraph 1 of this Article and the amounts of additional resources referred to in Article 4 may also be used for technical and administrative assistance for the implementation of the Programme, such as preparatory, monitoring, control, audit and evaluation activities, corporate information technology systems and platforms, information activities, and all other technical and administrative assistance or staff-related expenses incurred by the Commission for the management of the Programme. |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 3. The financial envelope referred to in paragraph 1 of this Article and the amounts of additional resources referred to in Article 4 may also be used for technical and administrative assistance for the implementation of the Programme, such as preparatory, monitoring, control, audit and evaluation activities, corporate information technology systems and platforms, information, visibility and communication activities, including corporate communication on the political priorities of the Union, and all other technical and administrative assistance or staff-related expenses incurred by the Commission for the management of the Programme. | 3. The financial envelope referred to in paragraph 1 of this Article and the amounts of additional resources referred to in Article 4 may also be used for technical and administrative assistance for the implementation of the Programme, such as preparatory, monitoring, control, audit and evaluation activities, corporate information technology systems and platforms, information, visibility and communication activities, and all other technical and administrative assistance or staff-related expenses incurred by the Commission for the management of the Programme. |
The funding of activities related to the communication of the general political priorities of the Union is not directly linked to the objectives of the programme. The proposed amendment maintains the possibility of financing information and communication activities necessary for its implementation, but at the same time prevents the use of program funds for broader political communication campaigns.
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 1. Member States, Union institutions, bodies and agencies, third countries, international organisations, international financial institutions, or other third parties, may make additional financial or non-financial contributions to the Programme. Additional financial contributions shall constitute external assigned revenue within the meaning of Article 21(2), points (a), (d), or (e), or Article 21(5) of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509. | 1. Member States, Union institutions, bodies and agencies, relevant third countries, international organisations, international financial institutions, or other third parties, may make additional financial or non-financial contributions to the Programme. Additional financial contributions shall constitute external assigned revenue within the meaning of Article 21(2), points (a), (d), or (e), or Article 21(5) of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509. |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 2. Resources allocated to Member States under shared management may, at their request, be made available to the Programme. The Commission shall implement those resources directly or indirectly in accordance with Article 62(1), point (a) or (c), of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509. They shall be additional to the amount referred to in Article 3(1) of this Regulation. Those resources shall be used for the benefit of the Member State concerned. Where the Commission has not entered into a legal commitment under direct or indirect management for additional amounts thus made available to the Programme, the corresponding uncommitted amounts may, at the request of the Member State concerned, be transferred back to one or more respective source programmes or their successors. | deleted |
The Pericles programme is a narrowly focused instrument with a relatively limited budget. The mechanism allowing the transfer of resources from shared management to direct or indirect management by the Commission goes beyond the needs of the programme and weakens the link between allocated resources and Member States' decisions. The financing of the programme should remain transparent and based on the budget approved by the co-legislators.
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 2. Award procedures under the Programme may be jointly conducted under direct or indirect management with Member States, Union institutions, bodies and agencies, third countries, international organisations, international financial institutions, or other third parties (‘partners to the joint award procedure’), provided the protection of the financial interests of the Union is ensured. Such procedures shall be subject to a single set of rules and lead to the conclusion of single legal commitments. For that purpose, the partners to the joint award procedure may make resources available to the Programme in accordance with Article [5] of this Regulation, or the partners may be entrusted with the implementation of the award procedure, where applicable in accordance with Article 62(1), point (c), of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509. In joint award procedures, representatives of the partners to the joint award procedure may also be members of the evaluation committee referred to in Article 153(3) of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509. | 2. Award procedures under the Programme may be jointly conducted under direct or indirect management with Member States, Union institutions, bodies and agencies, provided the protection of the financial interests of the Union is ensured. Such procedures shall be subject to a single set of rules and lead to the conclusion of single legal commitments. |
It is not clear why third countries, international organisations or other external entities should be involved in the decision-making on the allocation of funds. Responsibility for the use of budgetary resources should remain with the Member States and the relevant Union bodies.
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (aa) Schengen associated countries; |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (d) other third countries. | deleted |
The categories of countries referred to in points (a) to (c) already cover States which have a special relationship with the Union. The addition of a general category of ‘other third countries’ creates a very broad scope for future expansion of participation in the programme without clear conditions set out directly in the regulation. In the case of a programme aimed at protecting the euro, it is appropriate to maintain a more precise definition of the circle of eligible countries.
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (d) other third countries. | (d) other third countries cooperation with which will not expose the economic interests of the Member States or the activities of their enforcement authorities to risk. |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (d) guarantee the rights of the Union to ensure sound financial management and to protect its financial interests; | (d) guarantee the rights of the Union to ensure absolutely sound financial management and to protect its financial interests effectively. |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (e) where relevant, ensure the protection of security and public order interests of the Union. | deleted |
The concepts of ‘Union interests in the field of security and public order’ are very broad and go beyond the scope of the Pericles programme, which aims to protect the euro against counterfeiting. The conditions for the participation of third countries should remain closely linked to the subject matter of the programme and to cooperation in the fight against currency counterfeiting.
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (e) where relevant, ensure the protection of security and public order interests of the Union. | (e) in all circumstances, ensure the protection of security and public order interests of the Union and of the Member States. |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| For the purposes of the first subparagraph, point (d), the third country shall grant the necessary rights and access required under Regulations (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 and (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013, and guarantee that enforcement decisions imposing a pecuniary obligation on the basis of Article 299 TFEU, as well as judgements and orders of the Court of Justice of the European Union, are enforceable. | deleted |
The provision goes beyond the regulation of the programme itself and touches on broader issues of the legal position of third countries in relation to decisions and judgments of the Union institutions. Such obligations should be the subject of specific international agreements and not a general provision in a sectoral programme with a budget dedicated to the protection of the euro against counterfeiting.
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 1a. The Pericles V programme shall be implemented by the Commission in cooperation with the Member States, through regular consultations at different stages, while ensuring consistency and avoiding unnecessary duplication with relevant measures taken by other competent bodies, in particular the ECB and Europol. To that effect, when preparing the work programmes pursuant to Article 9, the Commission shall take into account existing and planned ECB activities and Europol activities against euro counterfeiting and related fraud. |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 3. Where Union funding is provided in the form of a grant, funding shall be provided as financing not linked to costs or, where necessary, simplified cost options, in accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509. Funding may be provided in the form of actual eligible cost reimbursement only where the objectives of an action cannot be achieved otherwise. | 3. Where Union funding is provided in the form of a grant, funding shall be provided as financing not linked to costs or, where necessary, simplified cost options, in accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509, or in the form of actual eligible cost reimbursement, according to the nature and requirements of the relevant action. |
Not all projects funded by the Pericles programme have the same scope or the same cost structure. For some activities, reimbursement of actual costs may be the most appropriate method of financing. The proposed amendment leaves the Commission with the necessary flexibility in choosing the financial instrument and at the same time avoids unnecessary preference for one form of financing regardless of the nature of the specific action.
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 3a. The Pericles V programme shall be implemented by the Commission in cooperation with the Member States, through regular consultations at different stages, while ensuring consistency and complementarity with relevant measures taken by other Union bodies, in particular the ECB and Europol. To that effect, when preparing the work programmes pursuant to Article 9, the Commission shall take into account existing and planned ECB activities and Europol activities against euro counterfeiting and related fraud. |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 3a. The Programme shall be implemented in a manner that ensures consistency, complementarity and effective coordination with relevant activities carried out by Union institutions, bodies, offices and agencies, in particular the European Central Bank, Europol, Eurojust and the Anti-Money Laundering Authority, while avoiding unnecessary duplication of effort. |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 1. Eligibility criteria shall be set to support achievement of the objectives laid down in Article 2 of this Regulation, in accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 and shall apply to all award procedures under the Programme. | 1. Eligibility criteria shall be set to support achievement of the objectives laid down in Article 2 of this Regulation, in accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 and shall apply to all award procedures under the Programme. The application of those criteria shall take due account of the regular consultations referred to in Article 7(1a), while preserving the Commission’s responsibility to implement the Union budget and avoiding additional ex ante consultation requirements for each individual action. |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (c) international organisations; | (c) international organisations, the work of which is directly linked to the fight against euro counterfeiting and related crimes; |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (d) other entities established in non-associated third countries where the funding of such entities is essential for implementing the action and contributes to the objectives laid down in Article 3. | (d) other entities established in non-associated third countries where their participation is directly related to the investigation or prevention of euro counterfeiting and that no comparable entity eligible under points (a) to (c) exists. |
The participation of entities from non-associated third countries should remain exceptional and linked to a specific need related to the protection of the euro. The proposed regulation maintains the necessary flexibility in cross-border cases of counterfeiting, while at the same time preventing an overly broad interpretation of eligibility for funding.
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (a) exchanges and dissemination of information on the topics listed in the Annex, in particular through organising workshops, meetings and seminars, including training, targeted placements and exchanges of staff of competent national authorities and other similar actions; | (a) exchanges and dissemination of information targeted among others at the following topics, in particular through organising workshops, meetings and seminars, including training, targeted placements and exchanges of staff of competent national authorities and other similar actions: |
| (i) best practices in preventing counterfeiting and counterfeiting-related fraud relating to the euro, including potential threats to the future digital euro, | |
| (ii) methodologies for monitoring and analysing the economic and financial impact of counterfeiting, | |
| (iii) operation of databases and early warning systems, | |
| (iv) use of detection tools, including with computer back-up, | |
| (v) enquiry and investigation methods, | |
| (vi) scientific assistance, including monitoring of new developments, also with regard to potential threats posed by and investigational opportunities offered by Artificial Intelligence, | |
| (vii) protection of the euro outside the Union, | |
| (viii) research actions, | |
| (ix) provision of specific operational expertise; |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (b) necessary technical, scientific and operational assistance, as listed in the Annex; | (b) necessary technical, scientific and operational assistance, including in particular: |
| (i) any appropriate measure which establishes teaching resources at Union level, such as a handbook of Union legislation, information bulletins, practical manuals, glossaries and lexicons, databases, especially in the area of scientific assistance or technology watch, or computer support applications, such as software and Artificial Intelligence tools, | |
| (ii) relevant studies with a multidisciplinary and transnational dimension, including research on innovative security features, | |
| (iii) development of technical support instruments and methods to facilitate detection actions at Union level, | |
| (iv) support for cooperation in operations involving at least two countries when such support cannot be made available from other programmes of Union institutions and bodies; |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (c) the purchase of equipment to be used by specialised anti-counterfeiting authorities of third countries for protecting the euro against counterfeiting. | (c) the purchase of equipment to be used by specialised anti-counterfeiting authorities of third countries for protecting the euro against counterfeiting, where a direct link to the protection of the euro and to the investigation or prevention of euro counterfeiting has been demonstrated. |
Financing equipment in third countries may be justified if it directly contributes to the detection or suppression of euro counterfeiting. Given that this involves the use of EU budget funds outside the territory of the Member States, it is appropriate to more clearly link the eligibility of such expenditure to the specific objective of the programme.
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 6. Any Actions funded by the Programme shall include the participation of trainers and/or trainees from at least two Member States and/or third countries, and from at least two of the professional groups listed in the Annex. | 6. Any Actions funded by the Programme shall include the participation of trainers and/or trainees from at least two Member States and/or third countries, and from at least two of the following professional groups: |
| (a) staff of agencies engaged in detecting and combating counterfeiting, in particular police forces; | |
| (b) customs and financial administrations; | |
| (c) parcel and delivery services; | |
| (d) intelligence personnel; | |
| (e) representatives of the national central banks, the mints, commercial banks and other financial intermediaries, in particular as regards the obligations of financial institutions; | |
| (f) court staff, prosecutors, judges, specialist lawyers and other members of the judiciary in this field; | |
| (g) any other group of specialists concerned, such as chambers of commerce and industry or comparable structures capable of providing access to small and medium sized enterprises, retailers and cash-in-transit companies. |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 6. Any Actions funded by the Programme shall include the participation of trainers and/or trainees from at least two Member States and/or third countries, and from at least two of the professional groups listed in the Annex. | 6. Any Actions funded by the Programme include as a general rule the participation of trainers and/or trainees from at least two Member States and/or third countries, and from at least two of the professional groups listed in the Annex. |
Cross-border cooperation remains a core element of the Pericles programme. In practice, however, there may be specialized activities for which strict compliance with both conditions would not be appropriate or necessary. The proposed amendment preserves the international character of the program while leaving room for supporting professionally justified projects.
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 10. The work programme referred to in Article 110 of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 may further specify the eligibility criteria set out in this Regulation or set additional eligibility criteria for specific actions. | 10. The work programme referred to in Article 110 of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 may further specify the eligibility criteria set out in this Regulation. |
The basic eligibility conditions should be set out directly in the regulation approved by the co-legislators. The work programme may specify these conditions, but should not create new criteria not foreseen in the basic legal act.
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| The Programme shall be implemented bywork programmes referred to in Article 110 of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509. | The Programme shall be implemented by work programmes referred to in Article 110 of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509. The Commission shall present to the European Parliament, on an annual basis, the annual reports on the implementation and results of the Pericles V programme, as well as its annual work programme. |
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| – best practices in preventing counterfeiting and counterfeiting-related fraud relating to the euro, including potential threats to the future digital euro, | – best practices in preventing counterfeiting and counterfeiting-related fraud relating to the euro, |
The digital euro has not yet been introduced and its final form is not finalised. It is therefore not necessary to extend the scope of the programme to include hypothetical future threats related to a project that does not yet exist in practice.
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| – scientific assistance, including monitoring of new developments, also with regard to potential threats posed by and investigational opportunities offered by Artificial Intelligence, | – scientific assistance, including monitoring of new developments, |
Protecting the euro against counterfeiting requires monitoring technological developments. However, special emphasis on artificial intelligence is not necessary, as it is just one of several technologies that may be used in the future. The general formulation provides sufficient scope to respond to technological developments without the need to list specific technologies directly in the legislation.
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| – any appropriate measure which establishes teaching resources at Union level, such as a handbook of Union legislation, information bulletins, practical manuals, glossaries and lexicons, databases, especially in the area of scientific assistance or technology watch, or computer support applications, such as software and Artificial Intelligence tools, | – any appropriate measure which establishes teaching resources at Union level, such as a handbook of Union legislation, information bulletins, practical manuals, glossaries and lexicons, databases, especially in the area of scientific assistance or technology watch, or computer support applications, such as software, |
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Sources & citation
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- Licensed CC BY 4.0.
- Retrieved
- 25 September 2026
Cite as
European Parliament (2026). “AMENDMENTS 27 - 87 - Draft report Establishing the exchange, assistance and training programme for the protection of the euro against counterfeiting for the period 2028-2034 (the 'Pericles V' programme) and repealing Regulation (EU) 2021/840”. Text, 30 June 2026. docId LIBE-AM-790750. EU Parl Watch Research. https://news.eu-parl.st-solutions.dev/texts/LIBE-AM-790750 (retrieved 25 September 2026). Data: EP Open Data API: document record, https://data.europarl.europa.eu/api/v2/documents/LIBE-AM-790750 (CC BY 4.0).
BibTeX
@misc{epw-text-libe-am-790750,
author = {{European Parliament}},
title = {{AMENDMENTS 27 - 87 - Draft report Establishing the exchange, assistance and training programme for the protection of the euro against counterfeiting for the period 2028-2034 (the 'Pericles V' programme) and repealing Regulation (EU) 2021/840}},
year = {2026},
date = {2026-06-30},
howpublished = {\url{https://news.eu-parl.st-solutions.dev/texts/LIBE-AM-790750}},
url = {https://news.eu-parl.st-solutions.dev/texts/LIBE-AM-790750},
urldate = {2026-09-25},
publisher = {EU Parl Watch Research},
note = {Text. docId LIBE-AM-790750. Data: EP Open Data API: document record (CC BY 4.0)}
}