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


### member states shall allocate an appropriate amount of esf + resources under shared management in each programme for the capacity building of social partners and civil society organisations . ### member states shall allocate at least 2% of esf + resources for the capacity building of social partners and civil society organisations at the european and national level in the form of training , networking measures , and strengthening of the social dialogue , and to activities jointly undertaken by the social partners .


### 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 , taking into consideration the challenges of different disadvantaged social groups , 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 .


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


### 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 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 30% 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 inclusion of third country nationals .


### 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 ; ### ensuring equal access to and completion of , quality , affordable , non - segregated and inclusive education and training , aiming at breaking the vicious cycle of poverty and deprivation across generations , 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 ;


### lack of access to finance for microenterprises , social economy and social enterprises is one of the main obstacles to business creation , especially among people furthest from the labour market . the esf + regulation lays down provisions in order to create a market eco - system to increase the supply of and access to finance for social enterprises as well as to meet demand from those who need it most , and in particular the unemployed , women and vulnerable people who wish to start up or develop a microenterprise . this objective will also be addressed through financial instruments and budgetary guarantee under the social investment and skills policy window of the investeu fund . ### lack of access to finance for microenterprises , social economy and social enterprises is one of the main obstacles to business creation , especially among people furthest from the labour market . the esf + regulation lays down provisions in order to increase the supply of and access to finance and support services for social enterprises as well as to meet demand from those who need it most , and in particular the unemployed , women and people in vulnerable situations who wish to start up or develop a microenterprise .


### 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 , taking into consideration the challenges of different disadvantaged social groups , 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 , such as the ones induced by the transition to a low carbon economy , facilitating career transitions , mobility and supporting in particular low - skilled , persons with disabilities and / or poorly qualified adults , in line with the skills agenda for europe and in coordination and complementarity with the digital europe programme .


### the health strand of the esf + should contribute to disease prevention throughout the lifetime of the union ' s citizens and to health promotion by addressing health risk factors such as tobacco use and passive smoking , harmful use of alcohol , consumption of illicit drugs and reduction of drugs - related health damage , unhealthy dietary habits and physical inactivity and foster supportive environments for healthy lifestyles in order to complement member states action in line with the relevant strategies . the health strand of the esf + should mainstream effective prevention models , innovative technologies and new business models and solutions to contribute to innovative , efficient and sustainable health systems of the member states and facilitate access to better and safer healthcare for european citizens . ### the health strand of the esf + should contribute to disease prevention throughout the lifetime of the people living in the union and to health promotion by addressing prevention and health risk factors such as tobacco use and passive smoking , harmful use of alcohol , consumption of illicit drugs and reduction of drugs - related health damage , unhealthy dietary habits , particularly due to poverty , and physical inactivity and foster supportive environments for healthy lifestyles in order to complement member states action in line with the relevant strategies . the health strand of the esf + should mainstream effective prevention models reaching out to all , innovative technologies and new business models and solutions to contribute to innovative , efficient , accessible and sustainable health systems of the member states and facilitate access to better and safer healthcare for people living in the union .


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


### 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 .


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


### 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 . through the esf + , the member states and the commission shall also support targeted actions within any of the specific objectives referred to in article 4 with the aim of increasing the sustainable participation and career progression of women in employment , 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 commission shall be assisted by the committee set up under article 163 tfeu . ### the commission shall be assisted by an extended committee based on article 163 tfeu . the composition of the committee shall be approved by the commission in order to safeguard transparency and balanced representation .


### promoting lifelong learning , notably flexible upskilling and reskilling opportunities for all taking into account digital skills , better anticipating change and new skills requirements based on labour market needs , facilitating career transitions and promoting professional mobility ; ### promoting lifelong learning as well as informal and non - formal learning , notably flexible upskilling and reskilling opportunities for all taking into account digital skills , better anticipating change and new skills requirements based on labour market needs , facilitating career transitions and promoting professional mobility , fostering participation in society and tackling societal challenges ;


### 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 of all throughout their preparation , implementation , monitoring and evaluation . these programmes and operations shall support targeted actions aimed at increasing the participation and progress of women in employment , respecting the principle of equal pay for equal work and work of equal value between women and men , reducing stereotypes and gender segregation in education , training and the labour market , promoting work - life balance for all with balanced sharing of care responsibilities , and combating the feminisation of poverty in the frame of gender mainstreaming obligations which shall be matched with a technical capacity for gender mainstreaming . they shall also promote equal opportunities and accessibility for all without discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age , sexual orientation in accordance with article 10 tfeu , throughout their preparation , implementation , monitoring evaluation , as well as support specific actions aiming to combat all forms of discrimination , improving accessibility for persons with disabilities and for those facing multiple discrimination , thereby enhancing social inclusion and reducing inequalities . programmes will adopt tools such as gender impact assessment for these purposes . all monitoring and evaluation component will include indicators to monitor impact on gender equality and collect gender disaggregated data . the member states shall integrate the gender perspective into all phases of programming , from shaping the priorities of the operational programmes to the delivery , monitoring and evaluation and enhance their commitment to gender budgeting by establishing specific targets with their corresponding budget allocations .


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


### improving the quality , effectiveness and labour market relevance of education and training systems , to support acquisition of key competences including digital skills ; ### improving the quality , effectiveness , flexibility and labour market relevance of education and training systems , including informal ones , to support acquisition of key competences including digital skills , to keep up with ever changing society , while also promoting e - inclusion ;


### the union is confronted with structural challenges arising from economic globalisation , the management of migration flows and the increased security threat , clean energy transition , technological change and an increasingly ageing workforce and growing skills and labour shortages in some sectors and regions , experienced especially by smes . taking into account the changing realities of the world of work , the union should be prepared for the current and future challenges by investing in relevant skills , making growth more inclusive and by improving employment and social policies , including in view of labour mobility . ### the union is confronted with structural challenges arising from social and economic inequalities , globalisation , the management of migration flows and related integration challenges , clean energy transition , technological change , demographic developments , unequal access to education and digitalization , an increasingly ageing workforce and growing skills and labour shortages in some sectors and regions , experienced especially by smes . taking into account the changing realities of the world of work , the union should be prepared for the current and future challenges by investing in relevant skills , making labour market , including quality education and training , lifelong learning , more inclusive and by improving employment , education and social policies , including in view of a voluntary labour mobility .


### 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 30% of their esf + resources under shared management to the specific objectives for the social inclusion policy area set out in points vii ) - x ) of article - 7 , including the promotion of the socio - economic inclusion of third country nationals .


### 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 through formal and non - formal education and training providers , with a special focus on developing digital skills and key enabling technologies , with a view to providing people of all ages across formal , non - formal and informal settings with skills , competences and knowledge adjusted to digitalisation , technological change , innovation and social and economic change , facilitating transitions from education and training to employment for young people career transitions , mobility and supporting in particular low - skilled and / or poorly qualified adults , in line with the skills agenda for europe . in this context , special attention should be paid to local actors , community and cultural spaces including museums , libraries , theatres and other cultural heritage institutions , that play an important role in supporting individuals to acquire skills , especially digital skills and media literacy


### direct staff costs shall be eligible for a contribution from the general support of the esf + strand under shared management provided that their level is not higher than 100% of the usual remuneration for the profession concerned in the member state as demonstrated by eurostat data . ### direct staff costs shall be eligible for a contribution under points to of article - 7 provided that their level is not higher than 100% of the usual remuneration for the profession or the specific expertise concerned in the member state as demonstrated by eurostat data or other relevant documentary justification provided by the respective managing authority .


### 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 , genuine and inclusive participation of local and regional authorities , social partners and civil society organisations , equality bodies , national human rights institutions and other relevant or representative organisations in the programming , delivery , monitoring and evaluation of actions supported by the esf + , in accordance with article 6 of [ future cpr ] and commission delegated regulation no 240 / 2014 . this shall include a dedicated approach to social partners ' capacity building in line with the 2016 quadri - partite statement on a new start for social dialogue .


### equality between men and women and equal opportunities , and non - discrimination ### gender equality and equal opportunities , and non - discrimination


### member states should ensure coordination and complementarity between the actions supported by these funds . ### member states and the commission should ensure coordination and complementarity and exploit synergies between the actions supported by the esf + and the other union programmes and instruments such as european globalisation adjustment fund , the european regional development fund , the european maritime and fisheries fund , erasmus , the asylum and migration fund , horizon europe , the european agricultural fund for rural development , the digital europe programme , investeu , creative europe or the european solidarity corps .


### 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 esf + 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 and beneficiaries , whilst maintaining simpler rules for simpler operations such as the distribution of food and / or basic material assistance .


### 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 . ### in duly justified cases , member states shall allocate an appropriate amount of their esf + resources under shared management to address relevant challenges identified in each country , taking into account the adapted regional specificities , in accordance with article 121 tfeu and article 148 tfeu and the principles and right laid down in the european pillar of social rights and the economic , social and territorial cohesion objectives laid down in article 174 tfeu .


### the delegation of power referred to in article 15 , article 21 and article 33may be revoked at any time by the european parliament or by the council . a decision to revoke shall put an end to the delegation of the power specified in that decision . it shall take effect the day following the publication of the decision in the official journal of the european union or at a later date specified therein . it shall not affect the validity of any delegated acts already in force . ### the delegation of power referred to in article 15 , article 21 , article 32 and article 33 may be revoked at any time by the european parliament or by the council . a decision to revoke shall put an end to the delegation of the power specified in that decision . it shall take effect the day following the publication of the decision in the official journal of the european union or at a later date specified therein . it shall not affect the validity of any delegated acts already in force .


### by 30 june 2025 and 30 june 2028 , managing authorities shall report to the commission the results of a structured survey of the end recipients carried out during the previous year . this survey shall be based on the model which shall be established by the commission by means of an implementing act . ### by 30 june 2025 and 30 june 2028 , managing authorities shall report to the commission the results of a structured anonymous survey of the end recipients carried out during the previous year , focusing on their living conditions and the nature of their material deprivation . this survey shall be based on the model which shall be established by the commission by means of an implementing act .


### member states shall concentrate the esf + resources under shared management on interventions that address the challenges identified in their national reform programmes , in the european semester as well as in the relevant country - specific recommendations adopted in accordance with article 121 tfeu and article 148 tfeu , and take into account principles and rights set out in the european pillar of social rights . ### member states also through their managing authorities at national and regional level shall concentrate the esf + resources under shared management on interventions that address the challenges linked to the scope and mission of the esf + and identified in their regional strategies , national reform programmes , relevant country specific recommendations , taking into account the social scoreboard of the european semester , and adopted in accordance with article 121 tfeu and article 148 tfeu , respecting the principles and rights set out in the european pillar of social rights , the local , regional and national investment needs and the ownership of the reforms on the ground .


### each member state shall dedicate at least one priority to the implementation of paragraphs 1 or 2 or to both . the maximum co - financing rate for these priorities may be increased to 95% for the allocation of maximum 5% of the national esf + allocation under shared management to such priorities . ### at least 10% of the esf + resources at national level shall be allocated to the implementation of paragraphs 1 or 2 or both .


### 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 , accessibility and labour market relevance as well as the inclusive nature of education and training systems in order to facilitate the acquisition of key competences notably as regards cultural awareness and expression skills , digital and media skills , including data protection and information governance , transversal skills , language skills and citizenship skills which all individuals need for personal fulfilment and development , employment , social inclusion and active citizenship . the esf + should help progression and flexibility within education and training and transition to work , support lifelong learning and employability , and contribute to social cohesion , competitiveness and societal and economic innovation by supporting scalable and sustainable initiatives in these fields . this could be achieved for example through high - quality work - based learning and apprenticeships , lifelong guidance , skills anticipation in cooperation with industry , in the form of distance and blended - learning , up - to - date training materials , forecasting and graduate tracking , training of educators , support for informal , and non - formal learning validation of learning outcomes and recognition of qualifications and prior learning . the esf + should encourage and promote access to the teaching profession by minorities , aiming at a better integration of marginalised communities such as the roma , minorities and migrants .


### the member states and the commission should ensure that esf + contributes to the promotion of equality between women and men in accordance with article 8 tfeu to foster equality of treatment and opportunities between women and men in all areas , including regarding participation in the labour market , terms and conditions of employment and career progression . they should also ensure that the esf + promotes equal opportunities for all , without discrimination in accordance with article 10 tfeu and promotes the inclusion in society of persons with disabilities on equal basis with others and contributes to the implementation of the united nations convention on the rights of persons with disabilities . these principles should be taken into account in all dimensions and in all stages of the preparation , monitoring , implementation and evaluation of programmes , in a timely and consistent manner while ensuring that specific actions are taken to promote gender equality and equal opportunities . the esf + should also promote the transition from residential / institutional care to family and community - based care , in particular for those who face multiple discrimination . the esf + should not support any action that contributes to segregation or to social exclusion . regulation no [ future cpr ] provides that rules on eligibility of expenditure are to be established at national level , with certain exceptions for which it is necessary to lay down specific provisions with regard to the esf + strand under shared management . ### the member states and the commission should ensure that esf + contributes to the promotion of equality between women and men in accordance with article 8 tfeu to foster equality of treatment and opportunities between women and men in all areas , including regarding participation in the labour market , terms and conditions of employment and career progression . 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 accessibility in accordance with article 9 of the united nations convention on the rights of persons with disabilities , as ratified by the european union and its member states , and 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 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 esf + strand under shared management 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 and young people who are hardest to reach , and young people in vulnerable situations , 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 allocate at least 3% of their national resources of the esf + strand to support policies in the field of youth employability , continued education , quality employment , apprenticeships and traineeships . member states with a neet rate above the eu average , or whenever their neet rate is above 15% , acting at the appropriate territorial level should allocate at least 15% of their national resources of the esf + to support policies in this field .


### 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 those who belong to 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 preventing the transmission of poverty through generations , fostering permeability between education and training sectors , reducing and 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 actively reaching out to disadvantaged learners in order to enable their participation in learning mobility , should be supported within this context .


### 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 to lay down specific provisions concerning the type of activities that may be financed by the esf + under shared management .


### 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 quality employment through active interventions enabling integration into the education system and the world of work , notably for youth , in particular young people not in employment , education or training , the long - term unemployed , minorities , migrants , the inactive and people with disabilities , as well as through promoting self–employment , with the accompanying adaptation of social protection systems and the social economy . the esf + should aim to improve the functioning of labour markets by supporting the modernisation of labour market institutions such as the public employment services in order to improve their capacity to provide intensified targeted and personalised counselling and guidance during the job search and the transition from education 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 the access of each family 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 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 + should support member states’ efforts to tackle poverty with a view to breaking the cycle of disadvantage across generations and promote social inclusion by ensuring equal opportunities for all , tackling discrimination and addressing health inequalities . this implies mobilising a range of policies targeting the most disadvantaged people regardless of their age , including children , marginalised communities such as the roma , and the working poor . the esf + should promote the active inclusion of people far from the labour market with a view to ensuring their socio - economic integration . the esf + should be also used to enhance timely and equal access to affordable , sustainable and high quality services such as healthcare and long - term care , in particular family and community - based care services . the esf + should contribute to the modernisation of social protection systems with a view in particular to promoting their accessibility . ### the esf + should support member states’ efforts to tackle poverty with a view to breaking the cycle of disadvantage across generations and promote social inclusion by ensuring equal opportunities for all , tackling discrimination and addressing health inequalities while putting special emphasis on combatting the feminisation of poverty . this implies mobilising a range of policies targeting the most disadvantaged people regardless of their age , gender and geographic location , including children , women in rural areas , marginalised communities such as the roma , people with disabilities and the working poor and other people facing multiple forms of discrimination . the esf + should promote the active inclusion of people far from the labour market with a view to ensuring their socio - economic integration . the esf + should be also used to enhance timely and equal access to affordable , sustainable and high quality services such as healthcare , childcare and early childhood education and long - term care , in particular family and community - based care services . the esf + should contribute to the modernisation of social protection systems with a view in particular to promoting their accessibility .


### the purchase of furniture , equipment and vehicles except where the purchase is necessary for achieving the objective of the operation , or these items are fully depreciated , or the purchase of these items is the most economic option . ### the purchase of furniture , equipment and vehicles except where the purchase is necessary for achieving the objective of the operation , or these items are fully depreciated , or the purchase of these items is the most economic option , or if needed to ensure reasonable accommodation to ensure universal accessibility for persons with disabilities .


### ' 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 ;


### 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 . 2 . member states shall allocate an appropriate amount of esf + resources under shared management in each programme for the capacity building of social partners and civil society organisations . ### in accordance with article 6 of the [ future cpr ] and the commission delegated regulation no 240 / 2014 , each member state shall ensure in partnership with local and regional authorities , meaningful participation of social partners , civil society organisations , equality bodies , national human rights institutions and other relevant or representative organisations in the programming and delivery of employment , education , non - discrimination and social inclusion policies and initiatives supported by the esf + strand under shared management . such meaningful participation shall be inclusive and accessible to persons with disabilities . 2 . member states shall allocate at least 2% of esf + resources for the capacity building of social partners and civil society organisations at the european and national level in the form of training , networking measures , and strengthening of the social dialogue , and to activities jointly undertaken by the social partners .


### at union level , the european semester of economic policy coordination is the framework to identify national reform priorities and monitor their implementation . member states develop their own national multiannual investment strategies in support of those reform priorities . those strategies should be presented alongside the yearly national reform programmes as a way to outline and coordinate priority investment projects to be supported by national and / or union funding . they should also serve to use union funding in a coherent manner and to maximise the added value of the financial support to be received notably from the programmes supported by the union under the european regional development fund , the cohesion fund , the european social fund plus , the european maritime and fisheries fund and the european agricultural fund for rural development , the european investment stabilisation function and investeu , where relevant . ### at union level , the european semester of economic policy coordination is the framework to identify national reform priorities and monitor their implementation . member states develop their own national multiannual investment strategies in support of those reform priorities . those strategies should be developed in partnership between national , regional and local authorities , should include a gender perspective and should be presented alongside the yearly national reform programmes as a way to outline and coordinate priority investment projects to be supported by national and / or union funding . they should also serve to use union funding in a coherent manner and to maximise the added value of the financial support to be received notably from the programmes supported by the union under the european regional development fund , the cohesion fund , the european social fund plus , the european maritime and fisheries fund and the european agricultural fund for rural development , the european investment stabilisation function and investeu , where relevant .


### innovative actions and approaches may be programmed under any of the specific objectives set out in points to of article 4 . ### innovative actions and approaches , as well as integrated territorial development may be programmed under any of the specific objectives set out in points to of article 4 .


### 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 , 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 . it shall be implemented : under shared management , for the part of the assistance which corresponds to the specific objectives indicated in article 4 , and b ) under direct and indirect management for the part of the assistance which corresponds to the objectives indicated in articles 4 and 23 and for the part of the assistance which corresponds to the objectives indicated in articles 4 and and 26 . ### the esf + shall support member states , at national , regional and local level , and the union to achieve inclusive societies , high levels of quality employment , job creation , quality and inclusive education and training , equal opportunities , eradicating poverty , including child poverty , social inclusion and integration , social cohesion , social protection and a skilled and resilient workforce ready for the future world of work . the esf + shall be in line with the treaties of the european union and the charter of fundamental rights of the european union , delivering on 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 , thereby contributing to the goals of the union as regards to strengthening economic , social and territorial cohesion in accordance with article 174 tfeu and the commitment of the union and its member states to achieve the sustainable development goals and commitments made under the paris agreement . the esf + shall support , complement and add value to the policies of the member states to ensure equal opportunities , equal access to the labour market , lifelong learning , high quality working conditions , social protection , integration and inclusion , eradicating poverty , including child poverty , investment in children and young people , non - discrimination , gender equality , access to basic services and a high level of human health protection . it shall be implemented : under shared management , for the part of the assistance which corresponds to the specific objectives indicated in article 4 , and b ) under direct and indirect management for the part of the assistance which corresponds to the objectives indicated in articles 4 and 23 and for the part of the assistance which corresponds to the objectives indicated in articles 4 and and 26 .


### 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 , 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 , 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 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 .


### lack of access to finance for microenterprises , social economy and social enterprises is one of the main obstacles to business creation , especially among people furthest from the labour market . the esf + regulation lays down provisions in order to create a market eco - system to increase the supply of and access to finance for social enterprises as well as to meet demand from those who need it most , and in particular the unemployed , women and vulnerable people who wish to start up or develop a microenterprise . this objective will also be addressed through financial instruments and budgetary guarantee under the social investment and skills policy window of the investeu fund . ### lack of access to finance for microenterprises , social economy and social enterprises is one of the main obstacles to business creation , especially among people furthest from the labour market and victims of discrimination in the field of employment . the esf + regulation lays down provisions in order to create a market eco - system to increase the supply of and access to finance for social enterprises as well as to meet demand from those who need it most , and in particular the unemployed , women and people in vulnerable situations who wish to start up or develop a microenterprise . this objective will also be addressed through financial instruments and budgetary guarantee under the social investment and skills policy window of the investeu fund .


### 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 , such as most young roma , 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 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 making them more active in providing tailor - made support to young people and able to deliver their service without discrimination of any kind . member states concerned should therefore allocate at least 10% of their national resources of the esf + strand under shared management to support youth employability .


### 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 , reducing barriers , fighting discrimination and addressing social and health inequalities . this implies also , but is not limited to , mobilising a range of pro - active and reactive policies and strategies targeting the most disadvantaged people regardless of their age , including children , marginalised communities such as the roma , persons with disabilities , people experiencing homelessness , third - country nationals , including migrants 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 economy . member states should promote esf + actions that complement national measure in line with the commission recommendation of 3 october 2008 on the active inclusion of people excluded from the labour market including measures on adequate income support . the esf + should be also used to enhance timely and equal access to affordable , sustainable and high quality services such as person - centred healthcare , related care and long - term care , in particular family and community - based care services and services guiding access to adequate , social and affordable housing services . this includes health promotion and diseases prevention services as part of primary healthcare services . the esf + should contribute to the modernisation of social protection systems with a view in particular to promoting their accessibility , inclusiveness , and effectiveness in responding to the changing realities of world of work . the esf should also address rural poverty stemming from the specific disadvantages of rural areas , such as an unfavourable demographic situation , a weak labour market , limited access to education and training services , or healthcare and social services .


### provision of infrastructure ; ### purchase of infrastructure ;


### the employment and social innovation strand and health strand shall be implemented by work programmes referred to in article [ 108 ] of financial regulation . work programmes shall set out , where applicable , the overall amount reserved for blending operations . ### the employment and social innovation strand and health strand shall be implemented by work programmes referred to in article [ 108 ] of financial regulation . work programmes shall set out , where applicable , the overall amount reserved for blending operations . provisions should be made in the employment and social innovation strands for multi - annual work programmes and union funding agreements with the providers of those measures .


### member states shall allocate an appropriate amount of their esf + resources under shared management to address challenges identified in relevant country - specific recommendations adopted in accordance with article 121 tfeu and article 148 tfeu and in the european semester falling within the scope of the esf + as set out in article 4 . ### member states shall allocate an appropriate amount of their esf + resources under shared management to address challenges identified in a coherent and consistent way 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 well as the recommendations to member states according to article 28 of the regulation of the european parliament and council on the governance of the energy union as set out in article 4 .


### 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 . the central employment services of member states working with one another , the social partners and the commission should cooperate closely . 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 under fair conditions and a greater transparency of information on the labour markets . the esf + scope includes developing and supporting targeted mobility schemes with a view to filling high - quality vacancies where labour market shortcomings have been identified . esf + also covers cross - border partnerships between regional public employment services and the social partners and the work done in the context of those partnerships to foster voluntary , fair mobility and the transparency and integration of cross - border labour markets , through the provision of information , advice and employment services . in many border regions these partnerships play an important role in the development of a genuinely european labour market .


### 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 esf + strand under shared management 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 and young people who are hardest to reach , and young people in vulnerable situations , 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 allocate at least 3% of their national resources of the esf + strand to support policies in the field of youth employability , continued education , quality employment , apprenticeships and traineeships . member states with a neet rate above the eu average , or whenever their neet rate is above 15% , acting at the appropriate territorial level should allocate at least 15% of their national resources of the esf + to support policies in this field .


### 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 shall support actions of social innovation and social experimentations , or strengthen bottom - up approaches based on partnerships involving public authorities , the private sector , and civil society such as the local action groups designing and implementing community - led local development strategies . ### through esf + , member states shall support actions of social innovation and experimentation , including the upscaling of innovative approaches tested on a smaller scale , or strengthen bottom - up approaches based on partnerships involving public authorities , in particular on local and regional level , the private sector , and civil society such as the local action groups designing and implementing community - led local development strategies which take into account local characteristics .


### 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 .


### each member state shall dedicate at least one priority to the implementation of paragraphs 1 or 2 or to both . the maximum co - financing rate for these priorities may be increased to 95% for the allocation of maximum 5% of the national esf + allocation under shared management to such priorities . ### at least 10% of the esf + resources at national level shall be allocated to the implementation of paragraphs 1 or 2 or both .


### of stakeholders in view of transnational cooperation ; ### of stakeholders in view of transnational and cross - border cooperation ;


### member states shall support actions of social innovation and social experimentations , or strengthen bottom - up approaches based on partnerships involving public authorities , the private sector , and civil society such as the local action groups designing and implementing community - led local development strategies . ### member states shall support actions of social as well as socio - cultural innovation and experimentations , or strengthen bottom - up approaches based on partnerships involving public authorities , the private sector , and civil society such as the local action groups designing and implementing community - led local development strategies .


### member states 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 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 , or whenever their neet rate is above 15% , or whenever their youth unemployment 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 .


### 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 , the long - term unemployed and the inactive , with special emphasis on disadvantaged social groups or people in vulnerable situations , such as people with disabilities , third - country nationals , roma people , people experiencing homelessness or poverty , people living in disadvantaged micro - regions and rural areas , people above the age of 50 , and people with a low level of educational attainment or basic skills , as well as through promoting self–employment and the social economy . the esf + should aim at promoting youth employment through specific actions , including by supporting fair and voluntary mobility and fostering early integration into the labour market . 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 make them more effective , improve their capacity to provide intensified targeted counselling and guidance during the job search and the transition to employment with special regard to disadvantaged social groups , to enhance workers’ mobility , and to deliver their service in a non - discriminatory way . the esf + should contribute to 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 the decent work agenda of the international labour organisation , article 9 tfeu , the charter of fundamental rights of the european union and the european social charter . the esf + should promote the participation of women in the labour market through measures aiming to ensure , amongst others , improved work / life balance and an easy access to good quality , free or affordable childcare , dependent care services and care for the elderly . 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 .


### ' key competences ' means the knowledge , skills and competences all individuals need , at any stage of their lives , for personal fulfilment and development , employment , social inclusion and active citizenship . the key competences are : literacy ; multilingual ; mathematics , science , technology and engineering ; digital ; personal , social and learning to learn ; citizenship ; entrepreneurship ; cultural awareness and expression ; ### ' key competences ' means the knowledge , skills and competences all individuals need , at any stage of their lives , for personal fulfilment and development , employment , social inclusion and active citizenship . the key competences are : literacy ; multilingual ; mathematics , science , technology and engineering ; digital ; media ; personal , intercultural , social and learning to learn ; citizenship ; entrepreneurship ; cultural awareness and expression ;


### 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 .


### 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 ; ### ensuring equal access to and completion of , quality , affordable , non - segregated and inclusive education and training , aiming at breaking the vicious cycle of poverty and deprivation across generations , 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 ;


### 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 .