The European Social Fund is the main instrument with which Europe supports job creation, helps people to get better jobs and guarantees fairer job opportunities for all EU citizens. To this end, the European Social Fund invests in European human capital: workers, young people and all those seeking employment or better employment. Its funding amounts to EUR 10 billion a year, improving the employment prospects of millions of Europeans, especially those who have difficulty finding work.
The European Commission and the EU Member States jointly set out the priorities of the European Social Fund and decide on the use of its resources. One of the priorities is to boost the adaptive capacity of employed people, helping them to acquire new skills, as well as companies, by encouraging new forms of work.
Other priorities focus on improving access to employment, supporting young students in their transition to the world of work, or training the less qualified people seeking employment to improve their employment prospects.
Another priority is to help vulnerable people find work. This contributes to strengthening social inclusion, as quality employment plays a crucial role in social integration and in everyday life.
Further information on the European Social Fund: