### the esf + should support member states’ efforts to tackle poverty with a view to breaking the cycle of disadvantage across generations and promote social inclusion by ensuring equal opportunities for all , tackling discrimination and addressing health inequalities . this implies mobilising a range of policies targeting the most disadvantaged people regardless of their age , including children , marginalised communities such as the roma , and the working poor . the esf + should promote the active inclusion of people far from the labour market with a view to ensuring their socio - economic integration . the esf + should be also used to enhance timely and equal access to affordable , sustainable and high quality services such as healthcare and long - term care , in particular family and community - based care services . the esf + should contribute to the modernisation of social protection systems with a view in particular to promoting their accessibility . ### the esf + should support member states’ efforts to tackle poverty with a view to breaking the cycle of disadvantage across generations and promote social inclusion by ensuring equal opportunities for all , tackling discrimination and addressing health inequalities while putting special emphasis on combatting the feminisation of poverty . this implies mobilising a range of policies targeting the most disadvantaged people regardless of their age , gender and geographic location , including children , women in rural areas , marginalised communities such as the roma , people with disabilities and the working poor and other people facing multiple forms of discrimination . the esf + should promote the active inclusion of people far from the labour market with a view to ensuring their socio - economic integration . the esf + should be also used to enhance timely and equal access to affordable , sustainable and high quality services such as healthcare , childcare and early childhood education and long - term care , in particular family and community - based care services . the esf + should contribute to the modernisation of social protection systems with a view in particular to promoting their accessibility .


### the union is confronted with structural challenges arising from economic globalisation , the management of migration flows and the increased security threat , clean energy transition , technological change and an increasingly ageing workforce and growing skills and labour shortages in some sectors and regions , experienced especially by smes . taking into account the changing realities of the world of work , the union should be prepared for the current and future challenges by investing in relevant skills , making growth more inclusive and by improving employment and social policies , including in view of labour mobility . ### the union is confronted with structural challenges arising from economic globalisation , the management of migration flows and the increased security threat , clean energy transition , technological change , unbalanced distribution of care responsibilities , demographic challenges , an increasingly ageing workforce and growing skills and labour shortages experienced especially by smes in some sectors and regions , and lack of employment opportunities in others , taking into account the changing realities of the world of work , the union should be prepared for the current and future challenges by investing in relevant skills , quality and inclusive education and lifelong learning making growth and labour markets more inclusive and by improving employment , entrepreneurship including women ' s entrepreneurship and social policies , including in view of labour mobility and by fighting against gender gaps and women’s discrimination inter alia regarding both , access to employment and maternity leave .


### the esf + should aim to promote employment through active interventions enabling integration into the labour market , notably for youth , the long - term unemployed and the inactive , as well as through promoting self–employment and the social economy . the esf + should aim to improve the functioning of labour markets by supporting the modernisation of labour market institutions such as the public employment services in order to improve their capacity to provide intensified targeted counselling and guidance during the job search and the transition to employment and to enhance workers’ mobility . the esf + should promote women ' s participation in the labour market through measures aiming to ensure , amongst others , improved work / life balance and access to childcare . the esf + should also aim to provide a healthy and well - adapted working environment in order to respond to health risks related to changing forms of work and the needs of the ageing workforce . ### the esf + should support measures aimed to ease young people’s transition from education to employment . furthermore , the esf + should aim to promote high - quality employment through active interventions enabling integration into the labour market , notably for youth , persons with disabilities and people with chronic diseases , marginalised groups , the long - term unemployed and the economically inactive , as well as through encouraging and promoting self–employment , accompanied by specific training programmes , and the social economy . the esf + should aim to improve the functioning of labour markets , by supporting the modernisation of labour market institutions such as the public employment services in order to improve their capacity to provide intensified targeted and geared towards individual counselling and guidance during the job search and the transition to employment and to facilitate workers’ mobility . the esf + should promote women ' s participation in the labour market , encourage gender equality through measures aiming to ensure , amongst others , improved work / life balance and access to affordable quality childcare and other care services or support . the esf + should also aim to provide a healthy and well - adapted working environment in order to respond to health risks related to changing forms of work and the needs of the ageing workforce .


### the esf + should support member states’ efforts to tackle poverty with a view to breaking the cycle of disadvantage across generations and promote social inclusion by ensuring equal opportunities for all , tackling discrimination and addressing health inequalities . this implies mobilising a range of policies targeting the most disadvantaged people regardless of their age , including children , marginalised communities such as the roma , and the working poor . the esf + should promote the active inclusion of people far from the labour market with a view to ensuring their socio - economic integration . the esf + should be also used to enhance timely and equal access to affordable , sustainable and high quality services such as healthcare and long - term care , in particular family and community - based care services . the esf + should contribute to the modernisation of social protection systems with a view in particular to promoting their accessibility . ### the esf + should support member states’ efforts to tackle poverty with a view to breaking the cycle of disadvantage across generations and promote social inclusion by ensuring equal opportunities for all , reducing barriers , tackling discrimination and addressing health inequalities . this implies also , but is not limited to , mobilising a range of policies targeting the most disadvantaged people regardless of their age , including children , marginalised communities such as the roma , and the working poor . the esf + should promote the active inclusion of people far from the labour market with a view to ensuring their socio - economic integration . the esf + should be also used to enhance timely and equal access to affordable , sustainable and high quality services such as person - centred healthcare , related care and long - term care , in particular family and community - based care services . this includes health promotion and disease prevention services as part of primary healthcare services . the esf + should contribute to the modernisation of social protection systems with a view in particular to promoting their accessibility .


### member states shall concentrate the esf + resources under shared management on interventions that address the challenges identified in their national reform programmes , in the european semester as well as in the relevant country - specific recommendations adopted in accordance with article 121 tfeu and article 148 tfeu , and take into account principles and rights set out in the european pillar of social rights . ### member states shall concentrate the esf + resources under shared management on interventions that take into account the principles and rights set out in the european pillar of social rights .


### promoting women’s labour market participation , a better work / life balance including access to childcare , a healthy and well–adapted working environment addressing health risks , adaptation of workers , enterprises and entrepreneurs to change , and active and healthy ageing ; ### promoting women’s labour market participation , a better work / life balance including equal access to affordable , inclusive and non - segregated quality early childhood education and childcare , and other care services and support , a healthy and well–adapted working environment addressing health risks , adaptation of workers , enterprises and entrepreneurs to change , and active and healthy ageing ;


### the actions addressing the challenges identified in relevant country - specific recommendations and in the european semester as referred to in article 7 shall be programmed under one or more dedicated priorities . ### the actions addressing the challenges identified in relevant country - specific recommendations and in the european semester as referred to in article 7 shall be programmed under one or more dedicated priorities . sufficient flexibility shall be ensured at managing authority level to identify priorities and areas for esf + investments in line with the specific local or regional challenges , due to annual character of csrs and multiannual character of the esf + programming .


### each member state shall ensure adequate participation of social partners and civil society organisations in the delivery of employment , education and social inclusion policies supported by the esf + strand under shared management . ### each member state shall ensure adequate participation of social partners and civil society organisations in the programming and delivery of employment , education , anti - discrimination and social inclusion policies supported by the esf + strand under shared management .


### improving access to employment of all jobseekers , in particular youth and long - term unemployed , and of inactive people , promoting self - employment and the social economy ; ### improving access to quality&#160 ; employment of all jobseekers , in particular youth and long - term unemployed , &#160 ; inactive people and disadvantaged groups , promoting employment , self - employment and the social economy ;


### through transfer , adaptation and roll - out of best practices with established union level added value between member states ; ### through exchange , transfer , adaptation and roll - out of best practices with established union level added value between member states ;


### the council of [ … ] adopted revised guidelines for the employment policies of the member states to align the text with the principles of the european pillar of social rights , with a view to improving europeʼs competitiveness and making it a better place to invest , create jobs and foster social cohesion . in order to ensure the full alignment of the esf + with the objectives of these guidelines , particularly as regards employment , education , training and the fight against social exclusion , poverty and discrimination , the esf + should support member states , taking account of the relevant integrated guidelines and relevant country - specific recommendations adopted in accordance with article 121 tfeu and article 148 tfeu and , where appropriate , at national level , the national reform programmes underpinned by national strategies . the esf + should also contribute to relevant aspects of the implementation of key union initiatives and activities , in particular the “skills agenda for europe” and the european education area , relevant council recommendations and other initiatives such as the youth guarantee , upskilling pathways and on integration of the long - term unemployed . ### the council of [ … ] adopted revised guidelines for the employment policies of the member states to align the text with the principles of the european pillar of social rights , with a view to improving europeʼs competitiveness and making it a better place to invest , create jobs and foster social cohesion . in order to ensure the full alignment of the esf + with the objectives of these guidelines , particularly as regards employment , education , training and the fight against social exclusion , poverty and discrimination , the esf + should support member states , taking account of the relevant integrated guidelines . the esf + should also contribute to relevant aspects of the implementation of key union initiatives and activities , in particular the “skills agenda for europe” and the european education area , relevant council recommendations and other initiatives such as the youth guarantee , upskilling pathways and on integration of the long - term unemployed .


### support member states with knowledge transfer useful for the national reform processes for more effective , accessible and resilient health systems and better health promotion and disease prevention addressing , in particular , the challenges identified in the european semester . ### support member states with knowledge transfer and implementation support useful for the national reform processes for more effective , accessible , resilient , non - discriminatory , inclusive and equitable health systems tackling social inequalities , and better health promotion and disease prevention addressing , in particular , the challenges identified in the european semester . this also includes supporting high quality national registries that shall also deliver comparable data .


### when programming the esf + resources under shared management for 2026 and 2027 at mid - term in accordance with article [ 14 ] of [ the future cpr ] , member states having a rate of young people aged 15 to 29 not in employment , education or training above the union average in 2024 on the basis of eurostat data , shall allocate at least 10% of their esf + resources under shared management for the years 2026 to 2027 to these actions . ### when programming the esf + resources under shared management for 2026 and 2027 at mid - term in accordance with article [ 14 ] of [ the future cpr ] , member states having a rate of young people aged 15 to 29 not in employment , education or training above the union average in 2024 on the basis of eurostat data , shall allocate at least 15% of their esf + resources under shared management for the years 2026 to 2027 to these actions . .


### keeping people healthy and active longer and empowering them to take an active role in managing their health will have positive effects on health , health inequalities , quality of life , productivity , competitiveness and inclusiveness , while reducing pressures on national budgets . the commission has been committed to help member states to reach their sustainable development goals , in particular sdg 3 ' ensure healthy lives and promote well - being for all at all ages ' . 17 _________________ 17 com 739 final ### continued effort is required in order to meet the requirements set out in article 168 tfeu . keeping all people healthy and active in a non - discriminatory way and empowering them to take an active role in managing their health will have positive effects on health , health inequalities , quality of life , productivity , competitiveness and inclusiveness , while reducing pressures on national budgets . support for , and recognition of , innovation , including social innovation , which has an impact on health , helps in order to take up the challenge of sustainability in the health sector in the context of addressing the challenges of demographic change . moreover , action to reduce inequalities in health is important for the purposes of achieving ' inclusive growth ' . the commission has been committed to help member states to reach their sustainable development goals , in particular sdg 3 ' ensure healthy lives and promote well - being for all at all ages . 17 _________________ 17 com 739 final


### the esf + shall support , complement and add value to the policies of the member states to ensure equal opportunities , access to the labour market , fair working conditions , social protection and inclusion , and a high level of human health protection . ### the esf + shall support , complement and add value to the policies of the member states to ensure equal opportunities , access to the labour market , fair working conditions , social protection , poverty eradication , social inclusion and a high level of human health protection .


### under the health strand , the esf + shall support health promotion and disease prevention , contribute to effectiveness , accessibility and resilience of health systems , make healthcare safer , reduce health inequalities , protect citizens from cross - border health threats , and support eu health legislation . ### under the health strand , the esf + shall contribute to a high level of human health protection and disease prevention , including through the promotion of physical activity and promotion of health education , contribute to effectiveness , accessibility and resilience of health systems , make healthcare safer , reduce health inequalities , increase life expectancy at birth , protect citizens from cross - border health threats , and strengthen and support eu health - related legislation , including in the area of environmental health , and fostering health in all policies . the union’s health policy should be guided by sustainable development goals to ensure that the union and member states reach the targets of sdg 3 ' ensure healthy lives and promote well - being for all at all ages” .


### the esf + should promote flexible upskilling and reskilling opportunities for all , notably digital skills and key enabling technologies , with a view to providing people with skills adjusted to digitalisation , technological change , innovation and social and economic change , facilitating career transitions , mobility and supporting in particular low - skilled and / or poorly qualified adults , in line with the skills agenda for europe . ### the esf + should promote flexible upskilling and reskilling opportunities for all , notably digital skills and key enabling technologies , with a view to providing people with skills adjusted to digitalisation , technological change , innovation and social and economic change , facilitating career transitions , mobility and supporting in particular low - skilled , persons with disabilities and / or poorly qualified adults , in line with the skills agenda for europe .


### with a view to rendering policies more responsive to social change and to encourage and support innovative solutions , support for social innovation is crucial . in particular , testing and evaluating innovative solutions before scaling them up is instrumental in improving the efficiency of the policies and thus justifies specific support from the esf + . ### with a view to rendering policies more responsive to social change and to encourage and support innovative solutions , including at local level , support for social innovation and the social economy is crucial . in particular , testing and evaluating innovative solutions before scaling them up is instrumental in improving the efficiency of the policies and thus justifies specific support from the esf + .


### the delivery of food and / or material assistance may be complemented with re - orientation towards competent services and other accompanying measures aiming at the social inclusion of the most deprived persons . ### the delivery of food and / or material assistance shall be complemented with re - orientation towards competent services and other accompanying incentives or psychological motivation aiming at the social inclusion of the most deprived persons .


### invest in health promotion and disease prevention . ### invest in health promotion and disease prevention , including through health literacy and education programmes , and through the promotion of physical activity


### the esf + should provide support to improving the quality , effectiveness and labour market relevance of education and training systems in order to facilitate the acquisition of key competences notably as regards digital skills which all individuals need for personal fulfilment and development , employment , social inclusion and active citizenship . the esf + should help progression within education and training and transition to work , support lifelong learning and employability , and contribute to competitiveness and societal and economic innovation by supporting scalable and sustainable initiatives in these fields . this could be achieved for example through work - based learning and apprenticeships , lifelong guidance , skills anticipation in cooperation with industry , up - to - date training materials , forecasting and graduate tracking , training of educators , validation of learning outcomes and recognition of qualifications . ### the esf + should provide support to improving the quality , effectiveness and labour market relevance of education and training systems in order to facilitate the acquisition of key competences notably as regards digital skills which all individuals need for personal fulfilment and development , employment , social inclusion and active citizenship . the esf + should help progression within education and training and transition to work , support lifelong learning and employability , and contribute to competitiveness and societal and economic innovation by supporting scalable and sustainable initiatives in these fields . this could be achieved for example through work - based learning and apprenticeships , focusing in particular on the proven dual system combining teaching and work experience , lifelong guidance , skills anticipation in cooperation with industry , up - to - date training materials , forecasting and graduate tracking , training of educators , validation of learning outcomes and recognition of qualifications .


### the esf + should support member states’ efforts to tackle poverty with a view to breaking the cycle of disadvantage across generations and promote social inclusion by ensuring equal opportunities for all , tackling discrimination and addressing health inequalities . this implies mobilising a range of policies targeting the most disadvantaged people regardless of their age , including children , marginalised communities such as the roma , and the working poor . the esf + should promote the active inclusion of people far from the labour market with a view to ensuring their socio - economic integration . the esf + should be also used to enhance timely and equal access to affordable , sustainable and high quality services such as healthcare and long - term care , in particular family and community - based care services . the esf + should contribute to the modernisation of social protection systems with a view in particular to promoting their accessibility . ### the esf + should support member states’ and local and regional authorities’ efforts to tackle poverty with a view to breaking the cycle of disadvantage across generations and promote social inclusion by ensuring equal opportunities for all , tackling discrimination and addressing health inequalities . this implies mobilising a range of policies targeting the most disadvantaged people regardless of their age , including children , marginalised communities such as the roma , and the working poor . the esf + should promote the active inclusion of people far from the labour market with a view to ensuring their socio - economic integration . the esf + should be also used to enhance timely and equal access to affordable , sustainable and high quality services such as healthcare and long - term care , in particular family and community - based care services . the esf + should contribute to the modernisation of social protection systems with a view in particular to promoting their accessibility .


### to provide guidance for the development of social infrastructure needed for the implementation of the european pillar of social rights ; ### to provide guidance for the development of social infrastructure with due regard to the gender perspective , women’s labour market participation and needs of end - users needed for the implementation of the european pillar of social rights ;


### the employment and social innovation strand and health strand shall be implemented by work programmes referred to in article [ 108 ] of financial regulation . work programmes shall set out , where applicable , the overall amount reserved for blending operations . the commission shall foster synergies and ensure effective coordination between the health strand of esf + and the reform support programme , including the reform delivery tool and the technical support instrument . ### the commission shall adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 38 in order to supplement the employment and social innovation strand and the health strands by establishing work programmes as referred to in article [ 108 ] of financial regulation . those work programmes shall set out , where applicable , the overall amount reserved for blending operations . the commission shall foster synergies and ensure effective coordination between the health strand of esf + and the reform support programme , including the reform delivery tool and the technical support instrument .


### support the digital transformation of health and care ### support the digital transformation of health and care that address the needs and concerns of patients and citizens , in particular by establishing links to programmes that support media literacy and digital skills


### improving the quality , effectiveness and labour market relevance of education and training systems , to support acquisition of key competences including digital skills ; ### improving the quality , effectiveness and labour market relevance of education and training systems , to support acquisition of key abilities and competences including digital skills ; promote e - inclusion and facilitate the transition from education to work ;


### all programmes implemented under the esf + strand under shared management , as well as the operations supported by the employment and social innovation and health strands shall ensure equality between men and women throughout their preparation , implementation , monitoring and evaluation . they shall also promote equal opportunities for all , without discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation throughout their preparation , implementation , monitoring and evaluation . ### all programmes implemented under the esf + strand under shared management , as well as the operations supported by the employment and social innovation and health strands shall ensure equality between men and women throughout their preparation , implementation , monitoring and evaluation . they shall also promote equal opportunities for all , including access to the labour market for persons with disabilities , without discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability or health condition , age or sexual orientation throughout their preparation , implementation , monitoring and evaluation .


### all programmes implemented under the esf + strand under shared management , as well as the operations supported by the employment and social innovation and health strands shall ensure equality between men and women throughout their preparation , implementation , monitoring and evaluation . they shall also promote equal opportunities for all , without discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation throughout their preparation , implementation , monitoring and evaluation . ### all programmes implemented under the esf + strand under shared management , as well as the operations supported by the employment and social innovation and health strands shall ensure equality between men and women throughout their preparation , implementation , monitoring and evaluation . they shall also promote equal opportunities for all , including access to the labour market for persons with disabilities , without discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation throughout their preparation , implementation , monitoring and evaluation .


### each member state shall ensure adequate participation of social partners and civil society organisations in the delivery of employment , education and social inclusion policies supported by the esf + strand under shared management . ### each member state shall ensure , in accordance with article 6 of the common provisions regulation xx / xx and commission delegated regulation no 240 / 2014 , meaningful participation of local and regional authorities , social partners and civil society organisations and service users in the strategic governance of the esf + in all phases of programming , from shaping the priorities of the operational programmes to the delivery , monitoring and evaluation of all policies supported by the esf + strand under shared management . this should include a dedicated approach to social partners ' capacity building in line with the 2016 quadri - partite statement on a new start for social dialogue .


### the esf + should support policy and system reforms in the fields of employment , social inclusion , healthcare and long - term care , and education and training . in order to strengthen alignment with the european semester , member states should allocate an appropriate amount of their resources of the esf + strand under shared management to implement relevant country - specific recommendations relating to structural challenges which it is appropriate to address through multiannual investments falling within the scope of the esf + . the commission and the member states should ensure coherence , coordination and complementarity between the shared - management and health strands of esf + and the reform support programme , including the reform delivery tool and the technical support instrument . in particular , the commission and the member state should ensure , in all stages of the process , effective coordination in order to safeguard the consistency , coherence , complementarity and synergy among sources of funding , including technical assistance thereof . ### the esf + should support policy and system reforms in the fields of employment , social inclusion , healthcare and long - term care , and education and training . in order to strengthen alignment with the european semester , member states should allocate an appropriate amount of their resources of the esf + strand under shared management to implement relevant country - specific recommendations relating to structural challenges which it is appropriate to address through multiannual investments falling within the scope of the esf + . the commission and the member states should ensure coherence , coordination and complementarity between the shared - management and health strands of esf + and the reform support programme , including the reform delivery tool and the technical support instrument , and that the sustainable development objectives set in the european pillar of social rights are met . in particular , the commission and the member state should ensure , in all stages of the process , effective coordination in order to safeguard the consistency , coherence , complementarity and synergy among sources of funding , including technical assistance thereof .


### the health strand of the esf + should contribute to disease prevention throughout the lifetime of the union ' s citizens and to health promotion by addressing health risk factors such as tobacco use and passive smoking , harmful use of alcohol , consumption of illicit drugs and reduction of drugs - related health damage , unhealthy dietary habits and physical inactivity and foster supportive environments for healthy lifestyles in order to complement member states action in line with the relevant strategies . the health strand of the esf + should mainstream effective prevention models , innovative technologies and new business models and solutions to contribute to innovative , efficient and sustainable health systems of the member states and facilitate access to better and safer healthcare for european citizens . ### the health strand of the esf + should contribute to disease prevention , early diagnosis throughout the lifetime of the people living in the union and to health promotion by addressing health risk factors such as tobacco use , smoking and passive smoking , harmful use of alcohol , environmental health risk factors , consumption of illicit drugs and reduction of drugs - related health damage , obesity and unhealthy dietary habits , also related to poverty and physical inactivity and foster supportive environments for healthy lifestyles , greater public awareness of risk factors , well - designed public health interventions for reducing the burden and impact of infections and preventable infectious diseases , including through vaccinations , in the overall health throughout life in order to complement member states action in line with the relevant strategies . in this context , special attention should be given to health education as it helps individuals and communities improve their health , increase their knowledge and influence their attitudes . current health challenges can only be effectively addressed through collaboration at union level and continued union action in the field of health . the health strand of the esf + should support implementation of the relevant union legislation , mainstream effective prevention and awareness raising models reaching out to all , innovative technologies and new business models and solutions to contribute to innovative , accessible , efficient and sustainable health systems of the member states and facilitate access to better and safer healthcare for people living in the union in both urban and rural areas . with a view to fully tapping into the potential of cross - sectorial cooperation and to improving synergies and coherence with other policy fields to achieve the general objectives of the esf + , sport and physical activity should be used as a tool in esf + actions aimed , in particular , at health promotion , and disease prevention .


### member states shall concentrate the esf + resources under shared management on interventions that address the challenges identified in their national reform programmes , in the european semester as well as in the relevant country - specific recommendations adopted in accordance with article 121 tfeu and article 148 tfeu , and take into account principles and rights set out in the european pillar of social rights . ### member states , taking into account regional specificities , shall concentrate the esf + resources under shared management on interventions that address the challenges identified in their national reform programmes , in the european semester as well as in the relevant country - specific recommendations adopted in accordance with article 121 tfeu and article 148 tfeu , and take into account principles and rights set out in the european pillar of social rights .


### for the purposes of this regulation , the following definitions shall apply : ' accompanying measures ' means activities provided in addition to the distribution of food and / or basic material assistance with the aim of addressing social exclusion such as referring to and providing social services or advice on managing a household budget ; ‘ associated country’ means a third country which is party to an agreement with the union allowing for its participation in the employment and social innovation and health strands of the esf + in accordance with article 30 ; ' basic material assistance ' means goods which fulfil the basic needs of a person for a life with dignity , such as clothing , hygiene goods and school material ; ' blending operation ' means actions supported by the union budget , including within blending facilities pursuant to article 2 of the financial regulation , combining non - repayable forms of support and / or financial instruments from the union budget with repayable forms of support from development or other public finance institutions , as well as from commercial finance institutions and investors ; ‘ common immediate result indicators’ means common result indicators which capture effects within four weeks as from the day the participant leaves the operation ; ‘ common longer term result indicators’ means common result indicators which capture effects six months after a participant has left the operation ; ' costs of purchasing food and / or basic material assistance ' means the actual costs linked to the purchase of food and / or basic material assistance by the beneficiary and not limited to the price of the food and / or basic material assistance ; ' end recipient ' means the most deprived person or persons receiving the support as laid down in point of article 4 ; ‘ health crisis’ means any crisis commonly perceived as a threat , having a health dimension and which requires urgent action by authorities under conditions of uncertainty ; ' legal entity ' means any natural person , or any legal person created and recognised as such under national law , union law or international law , which has a legal personality and which may , acting in its own name , exercise rights and be subject to obligations ; ' microfinance ' includes guarantees , microcredit , equity and quasi - equity , coupled with accompanying business development services such as in the form of individual counselling , training and mentoring , extended to persons and micro - enterprises that experience difficulties accessing credit for the purpose of professional and / or revenue - generating activities ; micro - enterprise ' means an enterprise with fewer than 10 employees and an annual turnover or balance sheet below eur 2 000 000 ; ' most deprived persons ' means natural persons , whether individuals , families , households or groups composed of such persons , whose need for assistance has been established according to the objective criteria set by the national competent authorities in consultation with relevant stakeholders , while avoiding conflicts of interest and which are approved by those national competent authorities and which may include elements that allow the targeting of the most deprived persons in certain geographical areas ; ' reference value’ means a value to set targets for common and programme specific result indicators which is based on existing or previous similar interventions ; ' social enterprise ' means an undertaking , regardless of its legal form , or a natural person which in accordance with its articles of association , statutes or with any other legal document that may result in liability under the rules of the member state where it is located , has as its primary social objective the achievement of measurable , positive social impacts rather than generating profit for other purposes , and which provides services or goods that generate a social return , and / or employs methods of production of goods or services that embodies social objectives ; uses its profits first and foremost to achieve its primary social objective , and has predefined procedures and rules covering any distribution of profits that ensure that such distribution does not undermine the primary social objective ; is managed in an entrepreneurial , accountable and transparent way , in particular by involving workers , customers and stakeholders impacted by its business activities ; ' social innovations ' mean activities that are social both as to their ends and their means and in particular those which relate to the development and implementation of new ideas that simultaneously meet social needs and create new social relationships or collaborations , thereby benefiting society and boosting its capacity to act ; ' social experimentations ' mean policy interventions that offer an innovative response to social needs , implemented on a small scale and in conditions that enable their impact to be measured , prior to being implemented in other contexts or on a larger scale , if the results prove convincing ; ' key competences ' means the knowledge , skills and competences all individuals need , at any stage of their lives , for personal fulfilment and development , employment , social inclusion and active citizenship . the key competences are : literacy ; multilingual ; mathematics , science , technology and engineering ; digital ; personal , social and learning to learn ; citizenship ; entrepreneurship ; cultural awareness and expression ; ' third country ' means a country that is not member of the european union . 2 . the definitions in article [ 2 ] of [ the future cpr ] shall also apply for the esf + strand under shared management . ### for the purposes of this regulation , the following definitions apply : ' accompanying measures ' means activities provided in addition to the distribution of food and / or basic material assistance with the aim of addressing social exclusion and eradicating poverty such as referring to and providing social services and psychological support , providing relevant information on public services or advice on managing a household budget ; ‘ associated country’ means a third country which is party to an agreement with the union allowing for its participation in the employment and social innovation and health strands of the esf + in accordance with article 30 ; ' basic material assistance ' means goods which fulfil the basic needs of a person for a life with dignity , such as clothing , hygiene goods , including feminine hygiene products , and school material ; ' blending operation ' means actions supported by the union budget , including within blending facilities pursuant to article 2 of the financial regulation , combining non - repayable forms of support and / or financial instruments from the union budget with repayable forms of support from development or other public finance institutions , as well as from commercial finance institutions and investors ; ‘ common immediate result indicators’ means common result indicators which capture effects within four weeks as from the day the participant leaves the operation ; ‘ common longer term result indicators’ means common result indicators which capture effects six and twelve months after a participant has left the operation ; ' costs of purchasing food and / or basic material assistance ' means the actual costs linked to the purchase of food and / or basic material assistance by the beneficiary and not limited to the price of the food and / or basic material assistance ; ‘ cross - border partnerships’ in the employment and social innovation strand means permanent structures of cooperation between public employment services , civil society or the social partners located in at least two member states ; ' end recipient ' means the most deprived person or persons receiving the support as laid down in point of article 4 ; ‘ health crisis’ means any crisis commonly perceived as a threat , having a health dimension and which requires urgent action by authorities under conditions of uncertainty ; ' legal entity ' means any natural person , or any legal person created and recognised as such under national law , union law or international law , which has a legal personality and which may , acting in its own name , exercise rights and be subject to obligations ; ' microfinance ' includes guarantees , microcredit , equity and quasi - equity , coupled with accompanying business development services such as in the form of individual counselling , training and mentoring , extended to persons and micro - enterprises that experience difficulties accessing credit for the purpose of professional and / or revenue - generating activities ; micro - enterprise ' means an enterprise with fewer than 10 employees and an annual turnover or balance sheet below eur 2 000 000 ; ' most deprived persons ' means natural persons , whether individuals , families , households or groups composed of such persons , including children and homeless people , whose need for assistance has been established according to the objective criteria set by the national competent authorities in consultation with relevant stakeholders , while avoiding conflicts of interest and which are approved by those national competent authorities and which may include elements that allow the targeting of the most deprived persons in certain geographical areas ; ' reference value’ means a value to set targets for common and programme specific result indicators which is based on existing or previous similar interventions ; ' social enterprise ' means a social economy undertaking , regardless of its legal form , or a natural person who in accordance with its articles of association , statutes or with any other legal document that may result in liability under the rules of the member state where it is located , has as its primary social objective the achievement of measurable , positive social , including environmental , impacts rather than generating profit for other purposes , and which provides services or goods that generate a social return , and / or employs methods of production of goods or services that embodies social objectives ; reinvests most of its profits first and foremost to achieve its primary social objective , and has predefined procedures and rules covering any distribution of profits that ensure that such distribution does not undermine the primary social objective ; is managed in an entrepreneurial , democratic , participatory , accountable and transparent way , in particular by involving workers , customers and stakeholders impacted by its business activities ; ‘ social economy enterprise’ means different types of enterprises and entities falling within the social economy , such as cooperatives , mutuals , associations , foundations , social enterprises and other forms of enterprise regulated by the laws of the individual member states and based on the primacy of the individual and social objectives over capital , democratic governance , solidarity and the reinvestment of the majority of profits or surpluses ; ' social innovations ' mean activities , including collective activities , that are social both as to their ends and their means and in particular those which relate to the development and implementation of new ideas that simultaneously meet social needs and create new social relationships or collaborations , including between public , third sector organisations such as voluntary and community organisations and social economy enterprises , thereby benefiting society and boosting its capacity to act ; ' social experimentations ' mean policy interventions that offer an innovative response to social needs , implemented on a small scale and in conditions that enable their impact to be measured , prior to being implemented in other , including geographical and sectorial , contexts or on a larger scale , if the results prove convincing ; ' key competences ' means the knowledge , skills and competences all individuals need , at any stage of their lives , for personal fulfilment and development , employment , social inclusion and active citizenship . the key competences are : literacy ; multilingual ; mathematics , science , technology , arts and engineering ; digital ; media ; personal , social and learning to learn ; citizenship ; entrepreneurship ; cultural awareness and expression and critical thinking ; ' third country ' means a country that is not member of the european union ; ‘ disadvantaged groups’ means targeted groups with a high level of people experiencing or at risk of poverty , discrimination or social exclusion , including among others ethnic minorities such as roma , third - country nationals , including migrants , elderly people , children , single parents or persons with disabilities or persons with chronic diseases ; ‘ lifelong learning’ means learning in all its forms taking place at all stages in life including early childhood education , general education , vocational education and training , higher education and adult education , and resulting in an improvement in knowledge , skills , competences , and possibilities to participate in society . 2 . the definitions in article [ 2 ] of [ the future cpr ] also apply for the esf + strand under shared management . 2 a . the definitions in article 2 of regulation no [ regulation on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the union ] also apply for the employment and social innovation strand and health strand under direct and indirect management .


### modernising labour market institutions and services to assess and anticipate skills needs and ensure timely and tailor - made assistance and support to labour market matching , transitions and mobility ; ### modernising labour market institutions and services to assess and anticipate skills needs and ensure timely and tailor - made assistance and support to labour market matching , transitions across the life - cycle and mobility ;


### innovative actions member states shall support actions of social innovation and social experimentations , or strengthen bottom - up approaches based on partnerships involving public authorities , the private sector , and civil society such as the local action groups designing and implementing community - led local development strategies . 2 . member states may support the upscaling of innovative approaches tested on a small - scale developed under the employment and social innovation strand and other union programmes . 3 . innovative actions and approaches may be programmed under any of the specific objectives set out in points to of article 4 . 4 . each member state shall dedicate at least one priority to the implementation of paragraphs 1 or 2 or to both . the maximum co - financing rate for these priorities may be increased to 95% for the allocation of maximum 5% of the national esf + allocation under shared management to such priorities . ### social innovative actions member states shall support actions of social innovation and / or social experimentations , including those with a socio - cultural component , using bottom - up approaches based on partnerships involving public authorities , the social partners , social economy enterprises , the private sector , and civil society . 1a . member states shall identify , either in their operational programmes or at a later stage during implementation , fields for social innovation and social experimentations that correspond to the member states ' specific needs . 2 . member states may support the upscaling of innovative approaches tested on a small - scale developed under the employment and social innovation strand and other union programmes . 3 . innovative actions and approaches may be programmed under any of the specific objectives set out in article 4 . 4 . each member state shall dedicate at least one priority to the implementation of paragraphs 1 or 2 or to both . the maximum co - financing rate for these priorities may be increased to 95% for the allocation of maximum 5% of the national esf + allocation under shared management .


### member states shall allocate an appropriate amount of their esf + resources under shared management to address challenges identified in relevant country - specific recommendations adopted in accordance with article 121 tfeu and article 148 tfeu and in the european semester falling within the scope of the esf + as set out in article 4 . ### member states shall allocate an appropriate amount of their esf + resources under shared management to address challenges identified in relevant country - specific recommendations adopted in accordance with article 121 tfeu and article 148 tfeu and in the european semester falling within the scope of the esf + as set out in article 4 . this will be complemented by sufficient flexibility at managing authority level to identify priorities and areas for esf + investments in line with the specific local or regional challenges .


### promoting equal access to and completion of , quality and inclusive education and training , in particular for disadvantaged groups , from early childhood education and care through general and vocational education and training , and to tertiary level , as well as adult education and learning , including facilitating learning mobility for all ; ### promoting equal access to and completion of , quality and inclusive education and training , ensuring it is non segregated and adequately addresses early school leaving , among others through second chance opportunities , in particular for disadvantaged groups , from early childhood education and care through general and vocational education and training , and to tertiary level , as well as adult education and learning , including facilitating learning mobility for all and accessibility for persons with disabilities ;


### improving the quality , effectiveness and labour market relevance of education and training systems , to support acquisition of key competences including digital skills ; ### improving the quality , effectiveness and labour market relevance of education and training systems , to support acquisition of key competences including entrepreneurial and digital skills ;


### the esf + should provide support to improving the quality , effectiveness and labour market relevance of education and training systems in order to facilitate the acquisition of key competences notably as regards digital skills which all individuals need for personal fulfilment and development , employment , social inclusion and active citizenship . the esf + should help progression within education and training and transition to work , support lifelong learning and employability , and contribute to competitiveness and societal and economic innovation by supporting scalable and sustainable initiatives in these fields . this could be achieved for example through work - based learning and apprenticeships , lifelong guidance , skills anticipation in cooperation with industry , up - to - date training materials , forecasting and graduate tracking , training of educators , validation of learning outcomes and recognition of qualifications . ### the esf + should provide support to improving the quality , non - discriminatory nature , accessibility , inclusiveness , effectiveness and labour market relevance of education and training systems in order to facilitate the acquisition of key competences , notably as regards social , digital , and language skills which all individuals need for personal fulfilment and development , employment , social inclusion and active citizenship , yet so many people living in the union lack due to their segregation and marginalisation in the society or due to being institutionalised . in case of the long - term unemployed and people coming from a disadvantaged social background , special attention should be paid to empower them and to strengthen their self - confidence and their ability to access and demand their rights . the esf + should help progression within education and training and transition to work , support lifelong learning and employability of all , contribute to social inclusion , and societal and economic innovation by supporting scalable and sustainable initiatives in these fields . this could be achieved for example through work - based learning and apprenticeships , support for enterprises to employ people with disabilities , lifelong guidance , skills anticipation in cooperation with industry , up - to - date training materials , forecasting and graduate tracking , training of educators , especially on how to work with students from disadvantaged backgrounds , roma and students with learning difficulties , validation of learning outcomes and recognition of qualifications .


### eu health legislation has an immediate impact on the lives of citizen , on the efficiency and resilience of the health systems and the good functioning of the internal market . the regulatory framework for medical products and technologies , as well as on tobacco legislation , patients ' rights on cross - border health and serious cross - border threats to health is essential to health protection in the eu . regulation , as well its implementation and enforcement , must keep pace with innovation and research advances and with societal changes in this area , while delivering on health objectives . it is therefore necessary to continuously develop the evidence base required for implementing legislation of such a scientific nature . ### eu health legislation has an immediate impact on the lives of citizen , on the efficiency and resilience of the health systems and the good functioning of the internal market . the regulatory framework for medical products and technologies , as well as on tobacco legislation , patients ' rights on cross - border health and serious cross - border threats to health is essential to health protection in the eu . in addition , many other union legal acts have significant impacts on health such as those relating to food and food labelling , air pollution , endocrine disruptors and pesticides . in some cases , the cumulative impacts of environmental risk factors are not clearly understood , potentially leading to unacceptable risks to citizens ' health .


### promoting social integration of people at risk of poverty or social exclusion , including the most deprived and children ; ### promoting social integration of people experiencing or at risk of poverty or social exclusion , in particular the most deprived , such as homeless individuals and families , and children ;


### member states shall allocate at least 2% of their esf + resources under shared management to the specific objective of addressing material deprivation set out in point of article 4 . ### in addition to the minimum allocation of at least 30% of the esf + resources under shared management to the specific objectives vii ) – x ) of article - 7 , member states shall allocate at least 4% of their esf + resources under shared management to the specific objective of addressing social inclusion of the most deprived and / or material deprivation as set out in points and of article - 7 .


### enhancing the equal and timely access to quality , sustainable and affordable services ; modernising social protection systems , including promoting access to social protection ; improving accessibility , effectiveness and resilience of healthcare systems and long - term care services ; ### enhancing the equal and timely access to quality , sustainable and affordable person - centred healthcare and related care services ; modernising social protection systems , including promoting access to social protection ; improving accessibility , effectiveness and resilience of healthcare systems and long - term care services ;


### fostering active inclusion with a view to promoting equal opportunities and active participation , and improving employability ; ### promoting active employment policies and fostering active inclusion with a view to promoting equal opportunities , non - discrimination and active participation , and improving employability ;


### enhancing the equal and timely access to quality , sustainable and affordable services ; modernising social protection systems , including promoting access to social protection ; improving accessibility , effectiveness and resilience of healthcare systems and long - term care services ; ### enhancing the equal and timely access to quality , sustainable and affordable services ; modernising public employment services and social protection systems , including promoting access to social protection ; improving accessibility , effectiveness and resilience of healthcare systems and long - term care services ;


### in accordance with its articles of association , statutes or with any other legal document that may result in liability under the rules of the member state where it is located , has as its primary social objective the achievement of measurable , positive social impacts rather than generating profit for other purposes , and which provides services or goods that generate a social return , and / or employs methods of production of goods or services that embodies social objectives ; ### in accordance with its articles of association , statutes or with any other legal document that may result in liability under the rules of the member state where it is located , has as its primary social objective the achievement of measurable , positive social or environmental impacts rather than generating profit for other purposes , and which provides social services or goods that generate a social return , and / or employs methods of production of goods or services that embodies social objectives ;


### promoting lifelong learning , notably flexible upskilling and reskilling opportunities for all taking into account digital skills , better anticipating change and new skills requirements based on labour market needs , facilitating career transitions and promoting professional mobility ; ### promoting lifelong learning , notably flexible upskilling and reskilling opportunities for all taking into account entrepreneurial and digital skills , better anticipating change and new skills requirements based on labour market needs , facilitating career transitions and promoting professional mobility ;


### only actions pursuing the objectives referred to in article 3 and 4 shall be eligible for funding . 2 . the employment and social innovation strand may support the following actions : analytical activities , including in relation to third countries , in particular : surveys , studies , statistical data , methodologies , classifications , micro - simulations , indicators , support to european - level observatories and benchmarks ; social experimentations evaluating social innovations ; monitoring and assessment of the transposition and application of union law ; policy implementation , in particular : cross - border partnerships and support services in cross - border regions ; an eu - wide labour targeted mobility scheme at union level to fill job vacancies where labour market shortcomings have been identified ; support to microfinance and social enterprises , including through blending operations such as asymmetric risk sharing or reducing transaction costs , as well as support to the development of social infrastructure and skills ; support to transnational cooperation and partnership with a view to transferring and upscaling innovative solutions ; capacity building , in particular : of networks at union level related to the fields referred to in article 4 ; of national contact points providing guidance , information and assistance related the implementation of the strand ; of participating countries administrations , social security institutions and employment services responsible for promoting labour mobility , of microfinance institutions and of institutions providing finance to social enterprises or other social investment actors , as well as networking ; of stakeholders in view of transnational cooperation ; communication and dissemination activities , in particular : mutual learning through exchange of good practices , innovative approaches , results of analytical activities , peer reviews , and benchmarking ; guides , reports , informative material and media coverage of initiatives related to the fields referred to in article 4 ; information systems disseminating evidence related to the fields referred to in article 4 ; council presidency events , conferences and seminars . ### only actions pursuing the objectives referred to in article 3 and 4 shall be eligible for funding . 2 . the employment and social innovation strand may support the following actions : analytical activities , including in relation to third countries , in particular : surveys , studies , statistical data , methodologies , classifications , micro - simulations , indicators , support to european - level observatories and benchmarks ; social experimentations evaluating social innovations ; monitoring and assessment of the transposition and application of union law ; policy implementation , in particular : cross - border partnerships and support services in cross - border regions ; an eu - wide labour targeted mobility scheme at union level to fill job vacancies where labour market shortcomings have been identified ; support to microfinance and social economy enterprises , including through blending operations such as asymmetric risk sharing or reducing transaction costs , as well as support to the development of social infrastructure and skills ; support to transnational cooperation and partnership with a view to transferring and upscaling innovative solutions ; capacity building , in particular : of networks at union level related to the fields referred to in article 4 ; of national contact points providing guidance , information and assistance related the implementation of the strand ; of participating countries administrations , social security institutions and employment services responsible for promoting labour mobility , of microfinance institutions and of institutions providing finance to social economy enterprises or other social investment actors , as well as networking ; of social partners and stakeholders in view of transnational cooperation ; communication and dissemination activities , in particular : mutual learning through exchange of good practices , innovative approaches , results of analytical activities , peer reviews , and benchmarking ; guides , reports , informative material and media coverage of initiatives related to the fields referred to in article 4 ; information systems disseminating evidence related to the fields referred to in article 4 ; technical and administrative assistance for the implementation of the work programme , such as preparatory , monitoring , control , audit and evaluation activities including information technology systems .


### in accordance with article 349 tfeu and article 2 of protocol no 6 to the 1994 act of accession , the outermost regions and the northern sparsely populated regions are entitled to specific measures under common policies and eu programmes . due to the permanent constraints these regions require specific support . ### in accordance with articles 349 and 174 tfeu and article 2 of protocol no 6 to the 1994 act of accession , the outermost regions , the northern sparsely populated regions and islands are entitled to specific measures under common policies and eu programmes . due to the permanent constraints these regions require specific support .


### on 17 november 2017 , the european pillar of social rights was jointly proclaimed by the european parliament , the council and the commission as a response to social challenges in europe . the twenty key principles of the pillar are structured around three categories : equal opportunities and access to the labour market ; fair working conditions ; social protection and inclusion . the twenty principles of the european pillar of social rights should guide the actions under the european social fund plus . in order to contribute to the implementation of the european pillar of social rights the esf + should support investments in people and systems in the policy areas of employment , education and social inclusion , thereby supporting economic , territorial and social cohesion in accordance with article 174 tfeu . ### on 17 november 2017 , the european pillar of social rights was jointly proclaimed by the european parliament , the council and the commission as a response to social challenges in europe . the twenty key principles of the pillar are structured around three categories : equal opportunities and access to the labour market ; fair working conditions ; social protection and inclusion . the twenty principles of the european pillar of social rights should guide the actions under the european social fund plus . in order to contribute to the implementation of the european pillar of social rights the esf + should support investments in people and systems in the policy areas of employment , public services , education , health , and social inclusion , thereby supporting economic , territorial and social cohesion in accordance with article 174 tfeu .


### synergies with the horizon europe programme should ensure that the esf + can mainstream and scale up innovative curricula supported by horizon europe in order to equip people with the skills and competences needed for the jobs of the future . ### synergies with the horizon europe programme should ensure that the esf + can mainstream and scale up innovative curricula supported by horizon europe in order to equip people with the skills and competences needed for their personal and professional development and for the jobs of the future . the commission should ensure synergies between the health strand and the horizon europe programme in order to boost the results achieved in the area of health protection and disease prevention .


### the esf + should support member states’ efforts to tackle poverty with a view to breaking the cycle of disadvantage across generations and promote social inclusion by ensuring equal opportunities for all , tackling discrimination and addressing health inequalities . this implies mobilising a range of policies targeting the most disadvantaged people regardless of their age , including children , marginalised communities such as the roma , and the working poor . the esf + should promote the active inclusion of people far from the labour market with a view to ensuring their socio - economic integration . the esf + should be also used to enhance timely and equal access to affordable , sustainable and high quality services such as healthcare and long - term care , in particular family and community - based care services . the esf + should contribute to the modernisation of social protection systems with a view in particular to promoting their accessibility . ### the esf + should support member states’ efforts to tackle poverty with a view to breaking the cycle of disadvantage across generations and promote social inclusion by ensuring equal opportunities for all , reducing barriers , tackling discrimination and addressing health inequalities . this implies also , but is not limited to , mobilising a range of policies targeting the most disadvantaged people regardless of their age , including children , marginalised communities such as the roma , and the working poor . the esf + should promote the active inclusion of people far from the labour market with a view to ensuring their socio - economic integration . the esf + should be also used to enhance timely and equal access to affordable , sustainable and high quality services such as person - centred healthcare , related care and long - term care , in particular family and community - based care services . this includes health promotion and disease prevention services as part of primary healthcare services . the esf + should contribute to the modernisation of social protection systems with a view in particular to promoting their accessibility .


### the esf + should aim to promote employment through active interventions enabling integration into the labour market , notably for youth , the long - term unemployed and the inactive , as well as through promoting self–employment and the social economy . the esf + should aim to improve the functioning of labour markets by supporting the modernisation of labour market institutions such as the public employment services in order to improve their capacity to provide intensified targeted counselling and guidance during the job search and the transition to employment and to enhance workers’ mobility . the esf + should promote women ' s participation in the labour market through measures aiming to ensure , amongst others , improved work / life balance and access to childcare . the esf + should also aim to provide a healthy and well - adapted working environment in order to respond to health risks related to changing forms of work and the needs of the ageing workforce . ### the esf + should aim to promote employment through active interventions enabling integration into the labour market , notably for youth , persons with disabilities and people with chronic diseases , survivors of long term illnesses , the long - term unemployed , the economically inactive , people from marginalised communities as well as those facing multiple forms of discrimination , through promoting self–employment and the social economy . the esf + should aim to improve the functioning of labour markets by supporting the modernisation and flexibility towards various target groups of labour market institutions such as the public employment services in order to improve their capacity to provide intensified targeted and individual counselling and guidance during the job search and the transition to employment and to facilitate workers’ mobility . the esf + should promote participation of women in sustainable and high - quality employment and women entrepreneurship , with special attention to single mothers , through measures aiming to ensure , amongst others , the respect of the principle of equal pay for work of equal value between women and men . the esf + should aim to improve work / life balance and access to affordable childcare and life - cycle care services for working parents and carers in order to facilitate their participation in quality employment and as such fight poverty among workers with caring responsibilities . the esf + should also aim to provide a healthy , safe and free of harassment and violence either online or in the physical places of work , and well - adapted working environment in order to respond to health risks related to changing forms of work and the needs of the ageing workforce .


### each member state shall dedicate at least one priority to the implementation of paragraphs 1 or 2 or to both . the maximum co - financing rate for these priorities may be increased to 95% for the allocation of maximum 5% of the national esf + allocation under shared management to such priorities . ### each member state shall dedicate at least one priority to the implementation of paragraphs 1 or 2 or to both . the maximum co - financing rate for these priorities may be increased to 95% for the allocation of maximum 5% of the national esf + allocation under shared management .


### in accordance with its articles of association , statutes or with any other legal document that may result in liability under the rules of the member state where it is located , has as its primary social objective the achievement of measurable , positive social impacts rather than generating profit for other purposes , and which provides services or goods that generate a social return , and / or employs methods of production of goods or services that embodies social objectives ; ### in accordance with its articles of association , statutes or with any other legal document that may result in liability under the rules of the member state where it is located , has as its primary social objective the achievement of measurable , positive social impacts , including environmental impacts , rather than generating profit for other purposes , and which provides social services or goods that generate a social return , and / or employs methods of production of goods or services that embodies social objectives ;


### under the health strand , the esf + shall support health promotion and disease prevention , contribute to effectiveness , accessibility and resilience of health systems , make healthcare safer , reduce health inequalities , protect citizens from cross - border health threats , and support eu health legislation . ### under the health strand , the esf + shall contribute to a high level of human health protection and disease prevention , including through the promotion of physical activity and promotion of health education , contribute to effectiveness , accessibility and resilience of health systems , make healthcare safer , reduce health inequalities , increase life expectancy at birth , protect citizens from cross - border health threats , and strengthen and support eu health - related legislation , including in the area of environmental health , and fostering health in all policies . the union’s health policy should be guided by sustainable development goals to ensure that the union and member states reach the targets of sdg 3 ' ensure healthy lives and promote well - being for all at all ages” .


### keeping people healthy and active longer and empowering them to take an active role in managing their health will have positive effects on health , health inequalities , quality of life , productivity , competitiveness and inclusiveness , while reducing pressures on national budgets . the commission has been committed to help member states to reach their sustainable development goals , in particular sdg 3 ' ensure healthy lives and promote well - being for all at all ages ' . 17 _________________ 17 com 739 final ### continued effort is required in order to meet the requirements set out in article 168 tfeu . keeping all people healthy and active in a non - discriminatory way and empowering them to take an active role in managing their health will have positive effects on health , health inequalities , quality of life , productivity , competitiveness and inclusiveness , while reducing pressures on national budgets . support for , and recognition of , innovation , including social innovation , which has an impact on health , helps in order to take up the challenge of sustainability in the health sector in the context of addressing the challenges of demographic change . moreover , action to reduce inequalities in health is important for the purposes of achieving ' inclusive growth ' . the commission has been committed to help member states to reach their sustainable development goals , in particular sdg 3 ' ensure healthy lives and promote well - being for all at all ages . 17 _________________ 17 com 739 final


### any legal entity created under union law or any international organisation . ### any legal entity created under union law or relevant international organisation ;


### promoting women’s labour market participation , a better work / life balance including access to childcare , a healthy and well–adapted working environment addressing health risks , adaptation of workers , enterprises and entrepreneurs to change , and active and healthy ageing ; ### promoting women’s labour market participation , a better work / life balance including access to childcare , a healthy and well–adapted working environment addressing health risks , rights to reasonable adjustments and accommodations , professional reorientation , adaptation of workers , enterprises and entrepreneurs to change , and active and healthy ageing ;


### member states shall support actions of social innovation and social experimentations , or strengthen bottom - up approaches based on partnerships involving public authorities , the private sector , and civil society such as the local action groups designing and implementing community - led local development strategies . ### member states shall support actions of social innovation and social experimentations , or strengthen bottom - up approaches based on partnerships involving public authorities , the private sector , social entrepreneurs&#160 ; and civil society such as the local action groups designing and implementing community - led local development strategies , as well as thematic actions focused on addressing the needs of targeted groups .


### to support the development of social enterprises and the emergence of a social investment market , facilitating public and private interactions and the participation of foundations and philanthropic actors in that market ; ### to support the development of social economy enterprises and the emergence of a social investment market , facilitating public and private interactions and the participation of foundations and philanthropic actors in that market ;


### of national contact points providing guidance , information and assistance related the implementation of the programme ; ### of regional , subnational and national contact points providing guidance , information and assistance related the implementation of the programme ;


### the member states and the commission should ensure that esf + contributes to the promotion of equality between women and men in accordance with article 8 tfeu to foster equality of treatment and opportunities between women and men in all areas , including regarding participation in the labour market , terms and conditions of employment and career progression . they should also ensure that the esf + promotes equal opportunities for all , without discrimination in accordance with article 10 tfeu and promotes the inclusion in society of persons with disabilities on equal basis with others and contributes to the implementation of the united nations convention on the rights of persons with disabilities . these principles should be taken into account in all dimensions and in all stages of the preparation , monitoring , implementation and evaluation of programmes , in a timely and consistent manner while ensuring that specific actions are taken to promote gender equality and equal opportunities . the esf + should also promote the transition from residential / institutional care to family and community - based care , in particular for those who face multiple discrimination . the esf + should not support any action that contributes to segregation or to social exclusion . regulation no [ future cpr ] provides that rules on eligibility of expenditure are to be established at national level , with certain exceptions for which it is necessary to lay down specific provisions with regard to the esf + strand under shared management . ### the member states and the commission should ensure that esf + contributes to the promotion of equality between women and men in accordance with article 8 tfeu to foster equality of treatment and opportunities between women and men in all areas , including regarding participation in the labour market , terms and conditions of employment and career progression . the gender aspects should be taken into account in all programmes implemented , throughout their preparation , implementation , monitoring and evaluation . moreover , the esf + should in particular comply with article 21 of the charter of fundamental rights of the european union that stipulates that any discrimination based on any ground such as sex , race , colour , ethnic or social origin , genetic features , language , religion or belief , political or any other opinion , membership of a national minority , property , birth , disability , age , sexual orientation is prohibited ; furthermore , any discrimination based on sex characteristics or gender identity and on grounds of nationality should also be prohibited . member states and the commission should also ensure that the esf + promotes the inclusion in society of persons with disabilities on equal basis with others and contributes to the implementation of the united nations convention on the rights of persons with disabilities , with regard inter alia to education , work , employment and universal accessibility . these principles should be taken into account in all dimensions and in all stages of the preparation , monitoring , implementation and evaluation of programmes , in a timely and consistent manner while ensuring that specific actions are taken to promote gender equality and equal opportunities . the esf + should also promote the transition from institutional care to family and community - based care , in particular for those who face multiple and intersectional discrimination . the esf + should not support any action that contributes to segregation or to social exclusion . regulation no [ future cpr ] provides that rules on eligibility of expenditure are to be in line with the charter of fundamental rights of the european union and established at national level , with certain exceptions for which it is necessary to lay down specific provisions with regard to the esf + strand under shared management .


### the integration of the programme for the union ' s action in the field of health with the esf + will also create synergies between the developments and testing of initiatives and policies to improve the effectiveness , resilience and sustainability of health systems developed by the health strand of the esf + programme and their implementation in the member states by the tools provided by the other strands of the esf + regulation . ### the integration of the programme for the union ' s action in the field of health with the esf + will also create synergies between the developments and testing of initiatives and policies to improve the effectiveness , accessibility , resilience and sustainability of health systems developed by the health strand of the esf + programme and their implementation in the member states by the tools provided by the other strands of the esf + regulation .


### ' accompanying measures ' means activities provided in addition to the distribution of food and / or basic material assistance with the aim of addressing social exclusion such as referring to and providing social services or advice on managing a household budget ; ### ' accompanying measures ' means activities provided in addition to the distribution of food and / or basic material assistance with the aim of addressing poverty and social exclusion such as referring to and providing social services or advice on managing a household budget ;


### the health strand of the esf + should contribute to disease prevention throughout the lifetime of the union ' s citizens and to health promotion by addressing health risk factors such as tobacco use and passive smoking , harmful use of alcohol , consumption of illicit drugs and reduction of drugs - related health damage , unhealthy dietary habits and physical inactivity and foster supportive environments for healthy lifestyles in order to complement member states action in line with the relevant strategies . the health strand of the esf + should mainstream effective prevention models , innovative technologies and new business models and solutions to contribute to innovative , efficient and sustainable health systems of the member states and facilitate access to better and safer healthcare for european citizens . ### the health strand of the esf + should contribute to disease prevention , early diagnosis throughout the lifetime of the people living in the union and to health promotion by addressing health risk factors such as tobacco use , smoking and passive smoking , harmful use of alcohol , environmental health risk factors , consumption of illicit drugs and reduction of drugs - related health damage , obesity and unhealthy dietary habits , also related to poverty and physical inactivity and foster supportive environments for healthy lifestyles , greater public awareness of risk factors , well - designed public health interventions for reducing the burden and impact of infections and preventable infectious diseases , including through vaccinations , in the overall health throughout life in order to complement member states action in line with the relevant strategies . in this context , special attention should be given to health education as it helps individuals and communities improve their health , increase their knowledge and influence their attitudes . current health challenges can only be effectively addressed through collaboration at union level and continued union action in the field of health . the health strand of the esf + should support implementation of the relevant union legislation , mainstream effective prevention and awareness raising models reaching out to all , innovative technologies and new business models and solutions to contribute to innovative , accessible , efficient and sustainable health systems of the member states and facilitate access to better and safer healthcare for people living in the union in both urban and rural areas . with a view to fully tapping into the potential of cross - sectorial cooperation and to improving synergies and coherence with other policy fields to achieve the general objectives of the esf + , sport and physical activity should be used as a tool in esf + actions aimed , in particular , at health promotion , and disease prevention .


### keeping people healthy and active longer and empowering them to take an active role in managing their health will have positive effects on health , health inequalities , quality of life , productivity , competitiveness and inclusiveness , while reducing pressures on national budgets . the commission has been committed to help member states to reach their sustainable development goals , in particular sdg 3 ' ensure healthy lives and promote well - being for all at all ages ' . 17 . _________________ 17 com 739 final ### keeping people healthy and active longer and empowering them to take an active role in managing their health will have long - term positive effects on health , health inequalities , quality of life , active participation in society , productivity , competitiveness and inclusiveness , while reducing pressures on national budgets . the commission has been committed to help member states to reach their sustainable development goals , in particular sdg 3 ' ensure healthy lives and promote well - being for all at all ages”17 . _________________ 17 com 739 final


### on 17 november 2017 , the european pillar of social rights was jointly proclaimed by the european parliament , the council and the commission as a response to social challenges in europe . the twenty key principles of the pillar are structured around three categories : equal opportunities and access to the labour market ; fair working conditions ; social protection and inclusion . the twenty principles of the european pillar of social rights should guide the actions under the european social fund plus . in order to contribute to the implementation of the european pillar of social rights the esf + should support investments in people and systems in the policy areas of employment , education and social inclusion , thereby supporting economic , territorial and social cohesion in accordance with article 174 tfeu . ### on 17 november 2017 , the european pillar of social rights was jointly proclaimed by the european parliament , the council and the commission as a response to social challenges in europe and to appeals from the public to consolidate the social dimension of the union . the twenty key principles of the pillar are structured around three categories : equal opportunities and access to the labour market ; fair working conditions ; social protection and inclusion . the twenty principles of the european pillar of social rights should guide the actions under the european social fund plus , which should reflect the rights and principles contained in the charter of fundamental rights of the european union . in order to contribute to the implementation of the european pillar of social rights the esf + should support investments in people and systems in the policy areas of employment , education and social inclusion , thereby supporting economic , territorial and social cohesion in accordance with articles 174 and 175 tfeu .


### the esf + should aim to promote employment through active interventions enabling integration into the labour market , notably for youth , the long - term unemployed and the inactive , as well as through promoting self–employment and the social economy . the esf + should aim to improve the functioning of labour markets by supporting the modernisation of labour market institutions such as the public employment services in order to improve their capacity to provide intensified targeted counselling and guidance during the job search and the transition to employment and to enhance workers’ mobility . the esf + should promote women ' s participation in the labour market through measures aiming to ensure , amongst others , improved work / life balance and access to childcare . the esf + should also aim to provide a healthy and well - adapted working environment in order to respond to health risks related to changing forms of work and the needs of the ageing workforce . ### the esf + should aim to promote employment through employment policies and active interventions enabling integration into the labour market , notably for youth , the long - term unemployed and the inactive , as well as through promoting self–employment and the social economy . the esf + should aim to improve the functioning of labour markets by supporting the modernisation of labour market institutions such as the public employment services in order to improve their capacity to provide intensified targeted counselling and guidance during the job search and the transition to employment and to enhance workers’ mobility . the esf + should promote women ' s participation in the labour market through measures aiming to ensure , amongst others , improved work / life balance and access to childcare . the esf + should also aim to provide a healthy and well - adapted working environment in order to respond to health risks related to changing forms of work and the needs of the ageing workforce .


### this regulation lays down a financial envelope for the esf + . parts of this financial envelope should be used for actions to be implemented in direct and indirect management under the employment and social innovation and health strands . ### this regulation lays down a financial envelope for the esf + . it should specify the allocations for activities to be implemented under shared management and the allocations for actions to be implemented in direct and indirect management .


### eu health legislation has an immediate impact on the lives of citizen , on the efficiency and resilience of the health systems and the good functioning of the internal market . the regulatory framework for medical products and technologies , as well as on tobacco legislation , patients ' rights on cross - border health and serious cross - border threats to health is essential to health protection in the eu . regulation , as well its implementation and enforcement , must keep pace with innovation and research advances and with societal changes in this area , while delivering on health objectives . it is therefore necessary to continuously develop the evidence base required for implementing legislation of such a scientific nature . ### eu health legislation has an immediate impact on the lives of citizen , on the efficiency and resilience of the health systems and the good functioning of the internal market . the regulatory framework for medical products and technologies , as well as on tobacco legislation , patients ' rights on cross - border health and serious cross - border threats to health is essential to health protection in the eu . in addition , many other union legal acts have significant impacts on health such as those relating to food and food labelling , air pollution , endocrine disruptors and pesticides . in some cases , the cumulative impacts of environmental risk factors are not clearly understood , potentially leading to unacceptable risks to citizens ' health .