The preparation process for an EU framework programme for research and innovation includes a variety of activities: evaluation of the previous programme; expert studies to define the scope and priorities of the new programme; and proposals for new instruments. The EU institutions, the advisory...

This rolling check-list presents an overview of the Special Reports of the European Court of Auditors (ECA), concentrating on those relevant for the 2016 discharge procedure. It strives to link the research topics of the Special Reports to relevant debates and positions within the European...

The most important factors for successful e-participation identified in the comparison of 22 case studies are: a close and clear link of e-participation processes to a concrete formal decision-making process; the participatory process and the contribution of its outputs to the overall...

It is still believed by many that the perceived democratic deficit of the European Union indicates the need for fostering a European public sphere as a space for debate across national public spheres. Moreover, there is a consensus that new modes of political communication and participation via...

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) constitutes a significant step, marking a paradigm shift in the way people with disabilities are seen and leading to important legislative and policy changes. This report analyses first the regulatory frameworks...

Assistive technologies (ATs) are designed to improve the functional capabilities of people with disabilities. Some are relatively low-tech and very familiar, such as such as reading glasses, crutches and hearing aids. Others are more advanced, using cutting-edge science and technology, with...

The odometer readings of second-hand cars traded across the EU are manipulated more frequently than those of vehicles traded on national markets. Odometer fraud is difficult to track and leaves no trace. This incurs costs and creates challenges on the EU internal market. It can also impact EU...

Digital tools could create stronger connections between European citizens and the EU decision-making process and, by doing so, might contribute to reducing the EU democratic deficit. This report investigates what lessons can be drawn from local, national and European experiences of the use of...

In order to make e-participation tools at the EU level more successful, this report provides four policy options: 1) Stimulate experiments with participatory budgeting in relation to the regional and social funds, since e-budgeting produces the strongest results when it comes to impact on...

This report focuses on assistive technologies (ATs) for people with disabilities covering perceptions and specific needs related to ATs, as well as complementary measures by the public sector. Three comprehensive empirical studies were carried out: a quantitative European-wide online survey...