Guidelines are addressed to national competent authorities or insurance undertakings. They are aimed at establishing consistent, efficient and effective supervisory practices and to ensuring the common, uniform and consistent application of Union law. Even though they are not legally binding, competent authorities and financial institutions shall make every effort to comply with them. EIOPA can issue guidelines and recommendations according to Article 16 of Regulation (EU) No 1094/2010 (EIOPA Regulation).