Research For REGI Committee - Territorial Needs and Ring-fencing Requirements: Experience with Implementation in ERDF and ESF

Μελέτη 15-02-2019

The aim of this study is to assess the implementation of EU-level ring-fencing requirements during the period 2014 to 2020, including a minimum ESF as well the thematic concentration shares. Based on different information and data collection sources, the study finds that the requirements continue to be relevant. There is evidence that the ring-fencing played a key role in ensuring a higher concentration of funding on targeted social cohesion priorities. The study also highlights variations in implementation between programmes and thematic objectives, the need for more flexibility in the implementation of programmes, and the continuing need to foster synergies between ERDF and ESF.