The Common Framework includes a list of 9 Common Themes that reflect the ESF's investment priorities and act as a guide to Transnational Cooperation.
The Common Themes pertain to the following areas:
- Employment
- Inclusion
- Youth Employment
- Learning & Skills
- Social Economy
- Governance and Public Administration
- Simplification
- Partnership
- Migration
For each Common Theme, a Thematic Network (TN) has been set up. The 9 Thematic Networks operate since the end of 2015 and meet around 3 times a year. They act as forums to bridge the gap between policy-makers and practitioners, bringing together Managing Authorities / Intermediate Bodies representatives of the member states, technical experts and other stakeholders.
The Thematic Networks coordinate the implementation of Transnational Cooperation on their Common Theme and more specifically:
- direct the way the Common Theme is implemented at European level
- act as a platform for the exchange of knowledge, information and best practices
- support the design of coordinated calls
- provide relevant information and guidance on policies and actions
For more information, visit the ESF Transnational Platform website https://ec.europa.eu/esf/transnationality