### esf + lays down provisions intended to achieve freedom of movement for workers on a non - discriminatory basis by ensuring the close cooperation of the central employment services of member states with one another and with the commission . the european network of employment services should promote a better functioning of the labour markets by facilitating the cross - border mobility of workers and a greater transparency of information on the labour markets . the esf + scope also includes developing and supporting targeted mobility schemes with a view to filling vacancies where labour market shortcomings have been identified . ### esf + lays down provisions intended to achieve freedom of movement for workers on a non - discriminatory basis by ensuring the close cooperation of the central public employment services of member states with one another and with the commission . the european network of employment and cross - border services , with the involvement of the social partners should promote a better functioning of the labour markets by facilitating the voluntary cross - border mobility of workers under fair conditions and a greater transparency of information on the labour markets . the esf + scope also includes developing and supporting targeted mobility schemes with a view to filling vacancies of a high - quality where labour market shortcomings have been identified .


### in view of this wider scope of the esf + it is appropriate to foresee that the aims to enhance the effectiveness of labour markets and promote access to quality employment , to improve the access to and the quality of education and training as well as to promote social inclusion and health and to reduce poverty are not only implemented under shared management , but also under direct and indirect management under the employment and social innovation and health strands for actions required at union level . ### the union should contribute to the employment policies of the member states by encouraging cooperation and by complementing their actions . in view of this wider scope of the esf + it is appropriate to foresee that the aims to enhance the effectiveness of inclusive , open and fair labour markets for all genders and promote access to quality employment , to improve the access to and the quality of education and training , to aid reintegration into education systems and to promote lifelong learning , as well as to promote social inclusion and health and to eradicate poverty will continue to be implemented mainly under shared management , and where appropriate , complemented under direct and indirect management under the employment and social innovation and health strands for actions required at union level .


### 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 the integration and re - integration into the labour market , notably for youth , the long - term unemployed and the inactive , people in vulnerable situations , as well as through promoting self–employment and the social and solidarity - based economy . the esf + should aim to improve the employment policies and 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 , and to deliver their service in a non - discriminatory way . the esf + should promote women’s participation in the labour market through measures aiming to ensure , amongst others , improved work / life balance and easy access to affordable or free quality childcare , eldercare and other care services or support of good quality . the esf + should also aim to provide a safe , 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 , 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 , the long - term unemployed and the economically inactive , 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 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 work as well as to changing forms of work and the needs of the ageing workforce .


### the esf + aims to support member states to achieve high employment levels , fair social protection and a skilled and resilient workforce ready for the future world of work , in line with the principles set out in the european pillar of social rights proclaimed by the european parliament , the council and the commission on 17 november 2017 . ### the esf + shall support member states to achieve high levels of employment , job creation , quality and inclusive education , equal opportunities for all levels , social progress and social cohesion , fair social protection , eradication of poverty a skilled and resilient workforce , improve employment opportunities , strengthen social cohesion , improve social fairness , increase competitiveness across europe , in line with the principles set out in the european pillar of social rights proclaimed by the european parliament , the council and the commission on 17 november 2017 , and with the rights set out in the charter of fundamental rights of the european union , helping to strengthen the economic , social and territorial cohesion of the eu .


### the types of financing and the methods of implementation under this regulation should be chosen on the basis of their ability to achieve the specific objectives of the actions and to deliver results , taking into account , in particular , the costs of controls , the administrative burden , and the expected risk of non - compliance . for grants , this should include consideration of the use of lump sums , flat rates and unit costs , as well as financing not linked to costs as envisaged in article 125 of the financial regulation . to implement measures linked to the socio - economic integration of third country nationals , and in accordance with article 88 of the common provisions regulation , the commission may reimburse member states using simplified cost options including the use of lump sums . ### the types of financing and the methods of implementation under this regulation should be chosen on the basis of their ability to achieve the specific objectives of the actions and to deliver results , taking into account , in particular , the costs of controls , the administrative burden , and the expected risk of non - compliance . for grants , this should include consideration of the use of lump sums , flat rates and unit costs , as well as financing not linked to costs as envisaged in article 125 of the financial regulation . to implement measures linked to the socio - economic inclusion of third country nationals , and in accordance with article 88 of the common provisions regulation , the commission may reimburse member states using simplified cost options including the use of lump sums .


### 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 , add value and complement the policies of the member states at national , regional and local level to ensure equal opportunities , gender equality , access to the labour market , fair working conditions , social protection and inclusion , and a high level of human health protection , as set out in the european pillar of social rights .


### 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 gender equality 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 . in addition , the member states and the commission shall also implement targeted actions with the aim , in particular , of increasing the sustainable participation and career progression of women in employment , in return for a living wage , thus combating the feminisation of poverty , reducing gender - based segregation , combating gender stereotypes in the labour market and in education and training , and promoting the reconciliation of work and personal life for all , as well as the equal sharing of care responsibilities between men and women .


### 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 .


### the esf + should contribute to the reduction of poverty by supporting national schemes aiming to alleviate food and material deprivation and promote social integration of people at risk of poverty or social exclusion and the most deprived . with a view that at union level at least 4% of the resources of the esf + strand under shared management supports the most deprived , member states should allocate at least 2% of their national resources of the esf + strand under shared management to address the forms of extreme poverty with the greatest social exclusion impact , such as homelessness , child poverty and food deprivation . due to the nature of the operations and the type of end recipients , it is necessary that simpler rules apply to support which addresses material deprivation of the most deprived . ### the esf + should contribute to the eradication of poverty by supporting national schemes aiming to alleviate food and material deprivation and promote social integration of people experiencing or at risk of poverty or social exclusion and the most deprived . with a view that at union level at least 4% of the resources of the esf + strand under shared management supports the most deprived , member states should allocate at least 4% of their national resources of the esf + strand under shared management to eradicate the forms of extreme poverty with the greatest social exclusion impact , such as homelessness , child poverty and food deprivation . due to the nature of the operations and the type of end recipients , it is necessary that the simplest possible rules apply to support which addresses material deprivation of the most deprived


### 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 institutions of the union , as well as the member states when implementing union law , are to fully respect the rights enshrined in the charter of fundamental rights of the european union , observe its principles and promote its application , as well as in the european convention for the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms . accordingly , 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 aspect should be taken into account in all dimensions and in all stages of the planning and implementation of programmes . 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 . the 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 . 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 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 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 esf + aims to support member states to achieve high employment levels , fair social protection and a skilled and resilient workforce ready for the future world of work , in line with the principles set out in the european pillar of social rights proclaimed by the european parliament , the council and the commission on 17 november 2017 . ### the esf + aims to support member states to effectively eradicate poverty and fight social exclusion , advance equality and non - discrimination and achieve high employment levels , adequate and sustainable social protection , an appropriate level of health for all , and a skilled and resilient workforce ready for the future world of work , in line with the principles set out in the european pillar of social rights proclaimed by the european parliament , the council and the commission on17 november 2017 . the esf + also aims at contributing to fulfilling the commitment of the union and its member states to achieve the sustainable development goals .


### 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 employment of all jobseekers , in particular youth , women , single parents , long - term unemployed and of economically inactive people , persons with disabilities or chronic diseases , people from marginalised communities and those suffering from multiple forms of discrimination , promoting entrepreneurship and the social economy ;


### member states shall allocate at least 25% of their esf + resources under shared management to the specific objectives for the social inclusion policy area set out in points to of article 4 , including the promotion of the socio - economic integration of third country nationals . ### member states shall allocate at least 25% of their esf + resources under shared management to specific objectives for social inclusion across points , , and of article 4 .


### 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 .


### the esf + committee shall include one representative from each of the organisations representing workers ' organisations and employers ' organisations at union level . ### the esf + committee shall include one representative from each of the organisations representing workers ' organisations , employers ' organisations , the relevant civil society organisations , and the equality bodies at union level .


### 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 . ### in line with the charter of fundamental rights of the european union , 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 education and participation in the labour market , terms and conditions of employment and career progression . as well as the economic independence of women , education and skills upgrading and the reintegration of female victims of violence into society and into the labour market . synergiesand policy coherence with the rights and values programme in this should ensure that esf + can mainstream and upscale actions . the member states and the commission should also ensure that the esf + promotes equal opportunities for all , without discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age , sexual orientation 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 , with regard inter alia to education , employment , social protection and 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 or the reproduction of gender stereotypes . 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 social cohesion and social rights strand .


### 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 europe’s 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 guidelines for the employment policies of the member states adopted by the council in accordance with article 148 tfeu , namely : boosting the demand for labour ; enhancing labour supply : access to employment , skills and competences ; enhancing the functioning of labour markets and the effectiveness of social dialogue and promoting equal opportunities for all , fostering social inclusion and combatting poverty , including improved public services in the health and other sectors , together with the broad economic guidelines adopted in accordance with article 121 form part of the integrated guidelines underpinning the europe 2020 strategy . the council of [ … ] adopted revised guidelines for the employment policies of the member states to align them with the principles of the european pillar of social rights , with a view to , stimulate creation of jobs and foster social cohesion , thus improving europe’s competitiveness and making the union a better place to invest . in order to ensure the full alignment of the esf + with the objectives of the guidelines for the employment policies , member states should programme the esf + support , taking account of those guidelines , relevant for them , as well as of relevant country - specific recommendations adopted in accordance with article 148 and article 121 tfeu and , at national level , the employment and social aspects of 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 , the youth guarantee and other relevant council recommendations and other initiatives such as investing in children : breaking the cycle of disadvantage , the upskilling pathways , on integration of the long - term unemployed , a quality framework for traineeships and apprenticeships and the action plan on the integration of third - country nationals .


### the esf + committee shall include one representative from each of the organisations representing workers ' organisations and employers ' organisations at union level . ### the esf + committee shall include one representative from each of the organisations representing workers ' organisations , employers ' organisations and civil society at union level .


### article 5 budget the total financial envelope for the esf + for the period 2021 - 2027 shall be eur 101&#160 ; 174&#160 ; 000&#160 ; 000 in current prices . 2 . the part of the financial envelope for the esf + strand under shared management under the investment for jobs and growth goal shall be eur 100 000 000 000 in current prices or eur 88 646 194 590 in 2018 prices of which eur 200 000 000 in current prices or eur 175 000 000 in 2018 prices shall be allocated for transnational cooperation supporting innovative solutions as referred to in article 23 and eur 400 000 000 in current prices or eur 376 928 934 in 2018 prices as additional funding to the outermost regions identified in article 349 tfeu and the nuts level 2 regions fulfilling the criteria laid down in article 2 of protocol no 6 to the 1994 act of accession . 3 . the financial envelope for the employment and social innovation strand and the health strand for the period 2021 - 2027 shall be eur 1 174 000 000 in current prices . 4 . the indicative distribution of the amount referred in paragraph 3 shall be : eur 761&#160 ; 000&#160 ; 000 for the implementation of the employment and social innovation strand ; b ) eur 413 000 000 for the implementation of the health strand . 5 . the amounts referred to in paragraphs 3 and 4 may also be used for technical and administrative assistance for the implementation of the programmes , such as preparatory , monitoring , control , audit and evaluation activities including corporate information technology systems . ### article 5 budget the total financial envelope for the esf + for the period 2021 - 2027 shall be eur 106 781 000 000 in 2018 prices . 2 . the part of the financial envelope for the esf + strand under shared management under the investment for jobs and growth goal shall be eur 105 686 000 000 in 2018 prices of which eur 200 000 000 in current prices or eur 175 000 000 in 2018 prices shall be allocated for transnational cooperation supporting innovative solutions as referred to in article 23 and eur 400 000 000 in current prices or eur 376 928 934 in 2018 prices as additional funding to the outermost regions identified in article 349 tfeu and the nuts level 2 regions fulfilling the criteria laid down in article 2 of protocol no 6 to the 1994 act of accession . 3 . the financial envelope for the employment and social innovation strand and the health strand for the period 2021 - 2027 shall be eur 1 095 000 000 in 2018 prices . 4 . the indicative distribution of the amount referred in paragraph 3 shall be : eur 675 000 000 in 2018 prices for the implementation of the employment and social innovation strand ; b ) eur 420 000 000 in 2018 prices for the implementation of the health strand . 5 . the amounts referred to in paragraphs 3 and 4 may also be used for technical and administrative assistance for the implementation of the programmes , such as preparatory , monitoring , control , audit and evaluation activities including corporate information technology systems .


### a greener , low carbon europe through the improvement of education and training systems necessary for the adaptation of skills and qualifications , the upskilling of all , including the labour force , the creation of new jobs in sectors related to the environment , climate and energy , and the bioeconomy . ### a greener , low carbon europe through the improvement of education and training systems at the various stages of professional activity necessary for raising awareness of climate change , the adaptation of skills and qualifications , the upskilling of persons in active employment and jobseekers , the creation of new green jobs in sectors related to the environment , climate and energy , circular economy and the bioeconomy .


### member states and , where appropriate the commission , shall foster synergies and ensure coordination , complementarity and coherence between the esf + and other union funds , programmes and instruments such as erasmus , the asylum and migration fund and the reform support programme , including the reform delivery tool and the technical support instrument , both in the planning phase and during implementation . member states and , where appropriate the commission , shall optimise mechanisms for coordination to avoid duplication of effort and ensure close cooperation between those responsible for implementation to deliver coherent and streamlined support actions . ### member states through their managing authorities , at national and regional level , and , where appropriate the commission , shall foster synergies and ensure coordination , complementarity and coherence between the esf + and other union funds , such as the esi funds and in particular the erdf and the cohesion fund , as well as programmes and instruments such as erasmus , horizon europe , the asylum and migration fund and the reform support programme , including the reform delivery tool and the technical support instrument , both in the planning phase and during implementation , without prejudice to the objectives of the esf + as set out in articles 3 and 4 . member states and , where appropriate the commission , shall optimise mechanisms for coordination to avoid duplication of effort and ensure close cooperation between those managing authorities responsible for implementation to deliver integrated approaches , coherent and streamlined support actions .


### member states having a rate of young people aged 15 to 29 not in employment , education or training above the union average in 2019 on the basis of eurostat data , shall allocate at least 10% of their esf + resources under shared management for the years 2021 to 2025 to targeted actions and structural reforms to support youth employment and school - to - work transition , pathways to reintegrate into education or training and second chance education , in particular in the context of implementing youth guarantee schemes . ### member states shall allocate at least 5% of their resources under shared management to targeted , non - discriminatory , inclusive actions with an effective outreach and structural reforms to support youth employment and school - to - work transition , pathways to reintegrate into education or training and second chance education , in particular in the context of implementing youth guarantee schemes . member states having a rate of young people aged 15 to 29 not in employment , education or training above the union average in 2019 on the basis of eurostat data , or whenever their neet rate is above 15% , shall allocate at least 15% of their esf + resources under shared management in the programming period to the above mentioned actions and structural reform measures .


### in view of this wider scope of the esf + it is appropriate to foresee that the aims to enhance the effectiveness of labour markets and promote access to quality employment , to improve the access to and the quality of education and training as well as to promote social inclusion and health and to reduce poverty are not only implemented under shared management , but also under direct and indirect management under the employment and social innovation and health strands for actions required at union level . ### in view of this wider scope of the esf + it is appropriate to foresee that the aims to enhance the effectiveness of labour markets and promote access to quality employment , to improve the access to and the quality of education and training as well as to promote social inclusion and health and to reduce poverty should continue to be implemented mainly under shared management , and where appropriate , complemented under direct and indirect management under the employment and social innovation and health strands for actions required at union level .


### the member states and the commission shall also support specific targeted actions to promote the principles referred to in paragraph 1 within any of the objectives of the esf + , including the transition from residential / institutional care to family and community - based care . ### the member states and the commission shall also support specific targeted actions and the development of national strategies and action plans to promote the principles referred to in paragraphs 1 to 1 within any of the objectives of the esf + , including improving accessibility for all and the transition from institutional care to family and community - based care .


### 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 , the long - term unemployed and the economically inactive , 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 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 work as well as to changing forms of work and the needs of the ageing workforce .


### 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 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 language skills and digital skills , including data protection and information governance , which all individuals need for personal fulfilment and development , employment , social inclusion and active citizenship . 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 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 , and contribute to inclusiveness , competitiveness and societal and economic innovation by supporting scalable and sustainable initiatives in these fields . this could be achieved for example through investments in vocational education , including dual education , work - based learning and apprenticeships , lifelong guidance , skills anticipation in cooperation with the social partners , up - to - date training materials , forecasting and graduate tracking , training of educators , validation of learning outcomes and recognition of qualifications .


### annex i1 common indicators for the general support of the esf + strand under shared management all personal data are to be broken down by gender . if certain results are not possible , data for those results do not have to be collected and reported . common output indicators related to operations targeting people : common output indicators for participants –the common output indicators for participants are : –unemployed , including long - term unemployed* , –long - term unemployed* , –inactive* , –employed , including self - employed* , –below 30 years of age * , –above 54 years of age* , –with lower secondary education or less * , –with upper secondary or post - secondary education * , –with tertiary education * . the total number of participants is to be calculated automatically on the basis of the common output indicators relating to employment status . other common output indicators if data for these indicators is not collected from data registers , values on these indicators can be determined based on informed estimates by the beneficiary . –participants with disabilities** , –third country nationals* , –participants with a foreign background* , –minorities ** , –homeless or affected by housing exclusion* , –participants from rural areas* . common output indicators for entities are : –number of supported public administrations or public services at national , regional or local level , –number of supported micro , small and medium - sized enterprises . the common immediate result indicators for participants are : –participants engaged in job searching upon leaving* , –participants in education or training upon leaving* , –participants gaining a qualification upon leaving* , –participants gaining a qualification upon leaving* , common longer - term result indicators for participants : –participants in employment , including self - employment , six months after leaving* , –participants with an improved labour market situation six months after leaving* , as a minimum requirement , these data are to be collected based on a representative sample of participants within each specific objective . internal validity of the sample is to be ensured in such a way that the data can be generalised at the level of the specific objective . ________________________________ 1 data reported under the indicators marked with * are personal data according to article 4 of regulation 2016 / 679 . data reported under the indicators marked with ** are a special category of data according to article 9 of regulation 2016 / 679 . ### annex i1 common indicators for the general support of the esf + strand under shared management all personal data are to be broken down by gender . if certain results are not available , data for those results do not have to be collected and reported . sensitive personal data can be surveyed anonymously . common output indicators related to operations targeting people : common output indicators for participants –the common output indicators for participants are : –unemployed , including long - term unemployed* , –long - term unemployed* , –inactive* , –employed , including self - employed* , –not in education or training * , –children below 18 years of age * , –young people between 18 - 29 years of age * , –above 54 years of age* , –with lower secondary education or less * , –with upper secondary or post - secondary education * , –with tertiary education * . the total number of participants is to be calculated automatically on the basis of the common output indicators relating to employment status . other common output indicators if data for these indicators is not collected from data registers , values on these indicators can be determined based on informed estimates by the beneficiary . data is always provided by participants on a voluntary basis . –participants with disabilities** , –participants below 18 years of age* , –third country nationals* , –participants with a foreign background* , –minorities ** , –participants from the roma community** –homeless or affected by housing exclusion* , –participants from rural areas* –participants from geographical areas with high levels of poverty and social exclusion* , –participants transitioning from institutional to family and community based care** , common output indicators for entities are : –number of supported public administrations or public services at national , regional or local level , –number of supported micro , small and medium - sized enterprises . the common immediate result indicators for participants are : –participants engaged in job searching upon leaving* , –participants in education or training upon leaving* , –participants gaining a qualification upon leaving* , –participants gaining a qualification upon leaving* , common longer - term result indicators for participants : –participants in employment , including self - employment , six and twelve months after leaving* , –participants with an improved labour market situation six and twelve months after leaving* , as a minimum requirement , these data are to be collected based on a representative sample of participants within each specific objective . internal validity of the sample is to be ensured in such a way that the data can be generalised at the level of the specific objective . __________________________________ 1 data reported under the indicators marked with * are personal data according to article 4 of regulation 2016 / 679 . data reported under the indicators marked with ** are a special category of data according to article 9 of regulation 2016 / 679 .


### member states and , where appropriate the commission , shall foster synergies and ensure coordination , complementarity and coherence between the esf + and other union funds , programmes and instruments such as erasmus , the asylum and migration fund and the reform support programme , including the reform delivery tool and the technical support instrument , both in the planning phase and during implementation . member states and , where appropriate the commission , shall optimise mechanisms for coordination to avoid duplication of effort and ensure close cooperation between those responsible for implementation to deliver coherent and streamlined support actions . ### member states and , where appropriate the commission , shall foster synergies and ensure coordination , complementarity and coherence between the esf + and other union funds , programmes and instruments such as erasmus , creative europe , the european solidarity corps , the asylum and migration fund and the reform support programme , including the reform delivery tool and the technical support instrument , both in the planning phase and during implementation . member states and , where appropriate the commission , shall optimise mechanisms for coordination to avoid duplication of effort and ensure close cooperation between those responsible for implementation to deliver coherent and streamlined support actions .


### in light of the persistent need to enhance efforts to address the management of the migration flows in the union as a whole and in order to ensure a coherent , strong and consistent support to the solidarity and responsibility - sharing efforts , the esf + should provide support to promote the socio - economic integration of third country nationals complementary to the actions financed under the asylum and migration fund . ### in light of the persistent need to enhance efforts to address the management of the migration flows in the union as a whole and in order to ensure a coherent , strong and consistent support to the solidarity and responsibility - sharing efforts , the esf + should provide support for the socio - economic integration of third country nationals , including refugees and asylum seekers , complementary to the actions financed under the asylum and migration fund and better integration of migrants in the labour market . member states should allocate an appropriate amount of esf + resources to local authorities in order to meet the needs for integration of migrants at local level .


### support through the esf + should be used to promote equal access for all , in particular for disadvantaged groups , to quality , non - segregated and inclusive education and training , from early childhood education and care through general and vocational education and training and to tertiary level , as well as adult education and learning , thereby fostering permeability between education and training sectors , preventing early school leaving , improving health literacy , reinforcing links with non - formal and informal learning and facilitating learning mobility for all . synergies with the erasmus programme , notably to facilitate the participation of disadvantaged learners in learning mobility , should be supported within this context . ### support through the esf + should be used to promote equal access for all , in particular for disadvantaged groups , to quality , non - segregated and inclusive education and training , from early childhood education and care , paying special attention to children coming from a disadvantaged social background , such as children in institutional care and children experiencing homelessness , through general and vocational education and training and to tertiary level and re - integration into the education system , as well as adult education and learning , thereby preventing the transmission of poverty through generations , fostering permeability between education and training sectors , preventing early school leaving and social exclusion , improving health literacy , reinforcing links with non - formal and informal learning and facilitating learning mobility for all . synergies with the erasmus programme should be established in this context in order to properly and actively reach out and to prepare disadvantaged learners for mobility experiences abroad and increase their participation in cross - border learning mobility .


### 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 , high - quality jobs , social inclusion , healthcare and long - term care , and education and training linked to the challenges identified by the social scoreboard within 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 + , particularly for the ones issued in the first programming year and on the occasion of the mid - term review and which are consistent with the rationale of the esf + . the commission and the member states should meaningfully involve regional and local authorities in the process to ensure coherence , coordination and complementarity between the shared - management and health strands of esf + and the reform support programme . 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 , with respect to the partnership principle .


### regulation no [ … ] establishes the framework for action by the european regional development fund , the european social fund plus , the cohesion fund , the european maritime and fisheries fund , the asylum and migration fund , internal security fund and the border management and visa instrument as a part of the integrated border management fund , and lays down , in particular , the policy objectives and the rules concerning programming , monitoring and evaluation , management and control for union funds implemented under shared management . it is therefore necessary to specify the general objectives of the esf + , and to lay down specific provisions concerning the type of activities that may be financed by the esf + . ### regulation no [ … ] establishes the framework for action by the european regional development fund , the european social fund plus , the cohesion fund , the european maritime and fisheries fund , the asylum and migration fund , internal security fund and the border management and visa instrument as a part of the integrated border management fund , and lays down , in particular , the policy objectives and the rules concerning programming , monitoring and evaluation , management and control for union funds implemented under shared management . it is therefore necessary to specify the general objectives of the esf + and its coordination with other funds , and to lay down specific provisions concerning the type of activities that may be financed by the esf + .


### 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 . ### 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 esf + resources under shared management for specific objectives in the ‘ social inclusion’ policy area set out in points to of article 4 and referred to in paragraph 3 .


### article 5 budget the total financial envelope for the esf + for the period 2021 - 2027 shall be eur 101&#160 ; 174&#160 ; 000&#160 ; 000 in current prices . 2 . the part of the financial envelope for the esf + strand under shared management under the investment for jobs and growth goal shall be eur 100 000 000 000 in current prices or eur 88 646 194 590 in 2018 prices of which eur 200 000 000 in current prices or eur 175 000 000 in 2018 prices shall be allocated for transnational cooperation supporting innovative solutions as referred to in article 23 and eur 400 000 000 in current prices or eur 376 928 934 in 2018 prices as additional funding to the outermost regions identified in article 349 tfeu and the nuts level 2 regions fulfilling the criteria laid down in article 2 of protocol no 6 to the 1994 act of accession . 3 . the financial envelope for the employment and social innovation strand and the health strand for the period 2021 - 2027 shall be eur 1 174 000 000 in current prices . 4 . the indicative distribution of the amount referred in paragraph 3 shall be : eur 761&#160 ; 000&#160 ; 000 for the implementation of the employment and social innovation strand ; b ) eur 413 000 000 for the implementation of the health strand . 5 . the amounts referred to in paragraphs 3 and 4 may also be used for technical and administrative assistance for the implementation of the programmes , such as preparatory , monitoring , control , audit and evaluation activities including corporate information technology systems . ### article 5 budget the total financial envelope for the esf + for the period 2021 - 2027 shall be eur 106 781 000 000 in 2018 prices . 2 . the part of the financial envelope for the esf + strand under shared management under the investment for jobs and growth goal shall be eur 105 686 000 000 in 2018 prices of which eur 200 000 000 in current prices or eur 175 000 000 in 2018 prices shall be allocated for transnational cooperation supporting innovative solutions as referred to in article 23 and eur 400 000 000 in current prices or eur 376 928 934 in 2018 prices as additional funding to the outermost regions identified in article 349 tfeu and the nuts level 2 regions fulfilling the criteria laid down in article 2 of protocol no 6 to the 1994 act of accession . 3 . the financial envelope for the employment and social innovation strand and the health strand for the period 2021 - 2027 shall be eur 1 095 000 000 in 2018 prices . 4 . the indicative distribution of the amount referred in paragraph 3 shall be : eur 675 000 000 in 2018 prices for the implementation of the employment and social innovation strand ; b ) eur 420 000 000 in 2018 prices for the implementation of the health strand . 5 . the amounts referred to in paragraphs 3 and 4 may also be used for technical and administrative assistance for the implementation of the programmes , such as preparatory , monitoring , control , audit and evaluation activities including corporate information technology systems .


### under shared management , for the part of the assistance which corresponds to the specific objectives indicated in article 4 , and ### under shared management , taking into account the regional authorities , where the institutional and legal framework of the member states so envisages , for the part of the assistance which corresponds to the specific objectives indicated in article 4 , and


### in the light of persistently high levels of youth unemployment and inactivity in a number of member states and regions , in particular affecting young people who are neither in employment , nor in education or training , it is necessary that those member states continue to invest sufficient resources of the esf + strand under shared management towards actions to promote youth employment including through the implementation of youth guarantee schemes . building on the actions supported by the youth employment initiative in the 2014 - 2020 programming period targeting individual persons , member states should further promote employment and education reintegration pathways and outreach measures for young people by prioritising , where relevant , long - term unemployed , inactive and disadvantaged young people including through youth work . member states should also invest in measures aimed at facilitating school - to - work transition as well as reforming and adapting employment services with a view to providing tailor - made support to young people . member states concerned should therefore allocate at least 10% of their national resources of the esf + strand under shared management to support youth employability . ### in the light of persistently high levels of youth unemployment and inactivity in a number of member states and regions , in particular affecting young people who are neither in employment , nor in education or training , which levels are even higher in case of young people coming from a disadvantaged social background , it is necessary that member states continue to invest adequate resources of the social cohesion and social rights strand towards actions to promote youth employment , in particular through the implementation of youth guarantee schemes . building on the actions supported by the youth employment initiative in the 2014 - 2020 programming period targeting individual persons , member states should further promote high - quality employment and education reintegration pathways and effective outreach measures for young people by prioritising , where relevant , long - term unemployed , inactive and disadvantaged young people including through youth work . member states should also invest in measures aimed at facilitating school - to - work transition as well as reforming and adapting employment services with a view to providing tailor - made support to young people , and at delivering their service without discrimination of any kind . member states should therefore allocate at least 5% of their national resources of the social cohesion and social rights strand , or 15% of their national resources of the social cohesion and social rights strand when their neet rate is too high , to support policies in the field of youth employability , continued education , quality jobs , apprenticeships and traineeships .


### esf + lays down provisions intended to achieve freedom of movement for workers on a non - discriminatory basis by ensuring the close cooperation of the central employment services of member states with one another and with the commission . the european network of employment services should promote a better functioning of the labour markets by facilitating the cross - border mobility of workers and a greater transparency of information on the labour markets . the esf + scope also includes developing and supporting targeted mobility schemes with a view to filling vacancies where labour market shortcomings have been identified . ### esf + lays down provisions intended to achieve freedom of movement for workers on a non - discriminatory basis by ensuring the close cooperation of the public employment services of member states , the commission and social partners . the european network of employment services with the involvement of the social partners should promote a better functioning of the labour markets by facilitating the cross - border mobility of workers and a greater transparency of information on the labour markets . the esf + scope also includes developing and supporting targeted mobility schemes with a view to filling vacancies where labour market shortcomings have been identified . the esf + covers cross - border partnerships between regional public employment services and social partners and their activities to promote mobility , as well as transparency and integration of cross - border labour markets through information , advice and placement . in many border regions they play an important role in the development of a genuine european labour market .


### 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 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 . 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


### 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 meaningful participation of social partners , civil society organisations , equality bodies , national human rights institutions and other relevant or representative organisations in the programming , delivery , monitoring and evaluation of all programmes supported by the esf + , including as relevant employment , education , poverty eradication and social inclusion , and anti - discrimination - related policies and programmes .


### 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 ;


### support through the esf + should be used to promote equal access for all , in particular for disadvantaged groups , to quality , non - segregated and inclusive education and training , from early childhood education and care through general and vocational education and training and to tertiary level , as well as adult education and learning , thereby fostering permeability between education and training sectors , preventing early school leaving , improving health literacy , reinforcing links with non - formal and informal learning and facilitating learning mobility for all . synergies with the erasmus programme , notably to facilitate the participation of disadvantaged learners in learning mobility , should be supported within this context . ### support through the esf + should be used to promote equal access for all , in particular for disadvantaged groups , to high - quality , non - segregated and inclusive education and training , from early childhood education and care through general and vocational education and training and to tertiary level and re - integration into the education system , as well as adult education and learning and to cultural activities , thereby preventing the inter - generational transfer of poverty , fostering permeability between education and training sectors , preventing early school leaving and social exclusion , improving health literacy , reinforcing links with non - formal and informal learning , namely in the field of arts and facilitating learning mobility for all . special attention should be given to early childhood education as the early years are the most formative in human life and they greatly influence people ' s education , employment and integration prospects . synergies with the erasmus programme , to upscale innovative practices and notably to facilitate the participation of disadvantaged learners in learning mobility , should be supported within this context . moreover , policy coherence and complementarity between the erasmus programme and the esf + should ensure a decent support to design and implement measures such as learning mobility for disadvantaged learners , particularly young people in vulnerable situations , adult learners and persons with disabilities or chronic diseases , in order to properly prepare them for mobility experiences abroad and increase their participation in the erasmus programme .


### member states having a rate of young people aged 15 to 29 not in employment , education or training above the union average in 2019 on the basis of eurostat data , shall allocate at least 10% of their esf + resources under shared management for the years 2021 to 2025 to targeted actions and structural reforms to support youth employment and school - to - work transition , pathways to reintegrate into education or training and second chance education , in particular in the context of implementing youth guarantee schemes . ### member states having a rate of young people aged 15 to 29 not in employment , education or training above the union average in 2019 on the basis of eurostat data , shall allocate at least 10% of their esf + resources under shared management for the years 2021 to 2025 to targeted actions and structural reforms to support youth employment , apprenticeship schemes and school - to - work transition , entrepreneurship , pathways to reintegrate into education or training and second chance education , with particular reference to the best practices in the context of implementing youth guarantee schemes at national and regional level .


### 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 at all levels of government including at regional and local level to eradicate poverty , including energy poverty as foreseen in the newly agreed rules on the governance of the energy union , with a view to breaking the cycle of disadvantage across generations and promote social inclusion by ensuring equal opportunities for all , fighting discrimination and addressing social and health inequalities . this implies mobilising a range of pro - active and reactive policies targeting the most disadvantaged people regardless of their age , including children , in line with principle 11 of the european pillar of social rights , marginalised communities such as the roma , persons with disabilities , people experiencing homelessness , third - country nationals 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 including through targeted support to the social and solidarity - based economy . projects that promote active inclusion , integrated approaches based on the three pillars of access to services , income support and inclusive labour markets should be encouraged . synergies between esf + funded measures and national strategies on income support , in the form of minimum income and / or structural income support measures combining income support with activation measures and with a reinforcement of services or social benefits , should be promoted to amplify the impact on final beneficiaries . the esf + should be also used to enhance timely and equal access to free or affordable , sustainable and high quality services such as healthcare and long - term care , in particular family and community - based care services and services guiding access to adequate social or affordable housing . the esf + should contribute to the modernisation of social protection systems with a view in particular to promoting their accessibility .


### 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 gender equality 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 . in addition , the member states and the commission shall also implement targeted actions with the aim , in particular , of increasing the sustainable participation and career progression of women in employment , in return for a living wage , thus combating the feminisation of poverty , reducing gender - based segregation , combating gender stereotypes in the labour market and in education and training , and promoting the reconciliation of work and personal life for all , as well as the equal sharing of care responsibilities between men and women .


### ' 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 basic material assistance with the aim of addressing social exclusion and eradicating poverty such as providing information on relevant public and support services , household costs , etc . , referring to and providing social services and psychological support ;


### since the objective of this regulation , namely enhancing the effectiveness of labour markets and promoting access to quality employment , improving the access to and the quality of education and training , promoting social inclusion and health and reducing poverty as well as the actions under the employment and social innovation and health strands , cannot be sufficiently achieved by the member states but can rather , be better achieved at union level , the union may adopt measures , in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity as set out in article 5 of the treaty on european union . in accordance with the principle of proportionality , as set out in that article , this regulation does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve that objective . ### since the objective of this regulation , namely enhancing the effectiveness of labour markets and promoting access to quality employment , improving the access to and the quality of education and training , promoting social inclusion and health and eradicating poverty as well as the actions under the employment and social innovation and health strands , cannot be sufficiently achieved by the member states but can rather , be better achieved at union level , the union may adopt measures , in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity as set out in article 5 of the treaty on european union . in accordance with the principle of proportionality , as set out in that article , this regulation does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve that objective .


### 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 ;


### 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 , or whenever their neet rate is above 15 % , shall allocate at least 15% of their esf + resources under shared management for the years 2026 to 2027 to these actions .


### 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 . ### in line with the charter of fundamental rights of the european union , 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 education and participation in the labour market , terms and conditions of employment and career progression . as well as the economic independence of women , education and skills upgrading and the reintegration of female victims of violence into society and into the labour market . synergiesand policy coherence with the rights and values programme in this should ensure that esf + can mainstream and upscale actions . the member states and the commission should also ensure that the esf + promotes equal opportunities for all , without discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age , sexual orientation 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 , with regard inter alia to education , employment , social protection and 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 or the reproduction of gender stereotypes . 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 social cohesion and social rights strand .


### 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 and local communities with skills adjusted to digitalisation , technological change , innovation and social and economic change notably the ones induced by the transition to a low carbon economy , facilitating career transitions , mobility and supporting in particular low - skilled and / or poorly qualified adults , in line with the skills agenda for europe .


### 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 , taking into account regional specificities 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 complemented by sufficient flexibility at managing authority level to identify priorities and areas for esf + investments in line with the specific local / regional challenges and taking into account principles and rights as set out in the european pillar of social rights , as well as the objective of improving economic , social and territorial convergence .


### 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 the integration and re - integration into the labour market , notably for youth , the long - term unemployed and the inactive , people in vulnerable situations , as well as through promoting self–employment and the social and solidarity - based economy . the esf + should aim to improve the employment policies and 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 , and to deliver their service in a non - discriminatory way . the esf + should promote women’s participation in the labour market through measures aiming to ensure , amongst others , improved work / life balance and easy access to affordable or free quality childcare , eldercare and other care services or support of good quality . the esf + should also aim to provide a safe , 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 , 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 high - quality employment through education , training , employment policies and active interventions enabling integration into the labour market , notably for youth , persons with disabilities and people with chronic diseases , the long - term unemployed and the economically inactive , as well as those facing multiple forms of discrimination through promoting self–employment , entrepreneurship 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 support workers’ mobility . the esf + should aim at tackling precarious employment in order to ensure that all types of work contracts offer decent working conditions with proper social security coverage in line with article 9 tfeu , the european charter of fundamental rights , the european social charter and the ilo decent work agenda . the esf + should promote participation of women and sustainable employment that guarantees equal opportunities with special attention to single mothers in the labour market through measures aiming to ensure , amongst others , the respect of the principle of equal pay for work of equal value , improved work / life balance and access to affordable childcare and other care services or support to foster gender equality . 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 also support measures aimed to facilitate the transition of young people between education and employment .


### 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 the jobs of the future and to address current and future societal challenges .


### to provide specific support services to employers and job - seekers with a view to the development of integrated european labour markets , ranging from pre - recruitment preparation to post - placement assistance to fill vacancies in certain sectors , professions , countries , border regions or for particular groups ; ### to develop and provide specific support services to workers , employers and job - seekers with a view to the development of integrated european labour markets , ranging from pre - recruitment preparation to post - placement assistance to fill vacancies in certain sectors , professions , countries , border regions or for particular groups ;


### in order to streamline and simplify the funding landscape and create additional opportunities for synergies through integrated funding approaches , the actions which were supported by the fund for european aid to the most deprived , the european union programme for employment and social innovation and the programme for the union’s action in the field of health should be integrated into one esf + . the esf + should therefore include three strands : the esf + strand under shared management , the employment and social innovation strand , and the health strand . this should contribute to reducing the administrative burden linked to the management of different funds , in particular for member states , whilst maintaining simpler rules for simpler operations such as the distribution of food and / or basic material assistance . ### in order to streamline and simplify the funding landscape and create additional opportunities for synergies through integrated funding approaches , the actions which were supported by the fund for european aid to the most deprived , the european union programme for employment and social innovation and the programme for the union ' s action in the field of health should be integrated into one esf + . the esf + should therefore include three strands : the social cohesion and social rights strand under shared management , the employment and social innovation strand , and the health strand under direct and indirect management . this should contribute to reducing the administrative burden linked to the management of different funds , in particular for member states , whilst maintaining simpler rules for simpler operations such as the distribution of food and / or basic material assistance .


### ' 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 social exclusion and eradicating poverty such as referring to and providing social services , providing information on the host country or advice on managing a household budget , and providing psychological support ;


### 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 + , in close cooperation with the member states , should aim to promote employment through active interventions enabling the integration and re - integration into the labour market , notably for youth , the long - term unemployed , carers , the economically inactive and disadvantaged groups , as well as through promoting self–employment , entrepreneurship , and the social economy . the esf + should aim to improve employment policies and 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 personalized , where suitable , counselling and guidance during the job search and the transition to employment , with special attention to disadvantaged groups and to facilitate workers’ mobility , and to deliver their service in a non - discriminatory way . the esf + should promote women’s participation in the labour market through measures aiming to ensure , amongst others , improved work / life balance and easy access to affordable or free quality childcare , eldercare and other care services or support of good quality . the esf + should also aim to provide a safe , healthy and well - adapted working environment in order to respond to health risks related to work as well as to changing forms of work and the needs of the ageing workforce . the esf + should also support measures aimed to facilitate the transition of young people from education to employment .