The Framework Programme comprises two types of activities: indirect actions in fusion energy research and research on nuclear fission, safety and radiation protection, and direct actions for activities of the Joint Research Centre (JRC) in the field of nuclear waste management, environmental impact, safety and security, especially related to nuclear events and taking into account lessons learned from previous experiences. The direct actions should be implemented by this specific programme.

The JRC should implement the research and training activities to be carried out by means of direct actions under this specific programme.

In implementing its mission, the JRC should provide customer-driven scientific and technical support to the Union policymaking process, ensuring support for the implementation and monitoring of existing policies and responding to new policy demands. In order to achieve its mission, the JRC should carry out research of the highest European quality, including by maintaining its own level of scientific excellence.

In implementing this specific programme, emphasis should be given to promoting the mobility and training of researchers and promoting innovation, in the Union. In particular, the JRC should provide appropriate training in nuclear safety and security.

This specific programme should be implemented in a flexible, efficient and transparent manner, taking into account the relevant needs of the JRC users and Union policies, while protecting the Union financial interests. The research activities carried out under this specific programme should be adapted where appropriate to these needs and to scientific and technological developments and aim to achieve scientific excellence.

For implementing this specific programme, cooperation under the Agreement on the European Economic Area or under an Association Agreement may be complemented by international cooperation, in particular on the basis of Article 2(h), Article 101 and Article 102 of the Treaty, with third countries and international organisations.

In the context of enlargement and integration activities, the JRC aims to promote the integration of the organisations and researchers of new Member States within its activities in particular for implementing of the science and technology components of the Union acquis, as well as increased cooperation with organisations and researchers from accession and candidate countries. A progressive opening should also be envisaged towards the neighbouring countries, specifically on priority topics of the European Neighbourhood Policy.

The JRC should continue to generate additional resources through competitive activities. These include participation in the indirect actions of the Framework Programme, third-party work and, to a lesser extent, the exploitation of intellectual property.

The Commission should in due course arrange for an independent assessment to be conducted concerning the activities carried out in the fields covered by this specific programme.

Research activities carried out within this specific programme should respect fundamental ethical principles, including those reflected in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union,