Erasmus+ is the EU programme to support education, training, youth and sport in Europe. It has a budget of around €26 billion. In the current period, 2021-2027, the programme puts special emphasis on social inclusion, green and digital transitions, and promoting young people's participation in democratic life. As the European Commission itself explains in its executive summary.
The objectives are to support the priorities and activities set out in the European Education Area, the Digital Education Action Plan and the European Skills Agenda. As well as implementing the EU Youth Strategy 2019-2027 and supporting the european pillar of social rights.
Positive effects
Erasmus+ mobility has positive effects on educational, social, personal and professional development, as it strengthens knowledge, skills and attitudes. It also facilitates understanding between people from different cultures.
Over the course of the programme, around ten million people, including students and teachers, are expected to participate. Participants build networks of interpersonal and professional relationships with people from other countries. This contributes to greater social inclusion.
30% of the envelope will be invested in cooperation projects and policy development activities. In terms of projects, participating organisations gain experience in international cooperation, strengthen their capacities, develop innovative approaches, exchange good practices and establish networks.
Illustration from Freepik.
Opportunities
One of the advantages it provides is that it is a programme suitable for everyone, as it aims to increase the qualitative impact of its actions and ensure equal opportunities. It does so by reaching out to people of different ages and from diverse cultural, social and economic backgrounds. It focuses on people with fewer opportunities, including people with a migrant background or those with disabilities or learning difficulties, as well as those living in rural and remote areas. In this way, it ensures peer-to-peer learning and sharing of experiences.
