Keep what works: 8 success factors for a future ESF+

RREUSE has joined forces with over 40 European organisations to highlight what has made the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) a successful tool for social progress, and what must be preserved in the next EU budget.

As Europe navigates major economic, digital and environmental transformations, the ESF+ must remain a cornerstone of investment in people, supporting inclusive labour markets and strong social services. The joint statement reminds policymakers that improving the EU’s future funding framework means also recognising and building on what already works.

Together with our co-signatories, we point to eight key success factors that have enabled the ESF+ to deliver results and that are essential to its continued effectiveness: 

1. Guaranteed funding for delivering on Europe’s quality jobs, skills, and social targets and policies, as highlighted in the European Pillar of Social Rights.
2. Multi-level governance and shared management.
3. Horizontal earmarking for social inclusion
4. Ongoing efforts to simplify and increase flexibility for end-beneficiaries.
5. Enabling Conditions (both horizontal and thematic) have been instrumental in the effectiveness of ESF+ and other funds.
6. The Partnership Principle that brings together public authorities, social partners, civil society and the social economy.
7. Dedicated funding opportunities for local initiatives, including those led by the Proximity and Social Economy sectors and Small and Medium-sized Enterprises.
8. Investment into long-term priorities, systemic reforms and capacity development.

By keeping these principles at the heart of the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), the EU can ensure that the ESF+ continues to tackle exclusion, reduce inequalities, and contribute to a fair and green transition.