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EU Parl Watch

opinion parliamentary committee, 11 May 2026

On the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on establishing the Erasmus+ programme for the period 2028-2034, and repealing Regulations (EU) 2021/817 and (EU) 2021/888

Document EMPL-AD-784382 · (COM(2025)0549 – C100170/2025 – 2025/0222(COD))

Committee on Employment and Social Affairs · Rapporteur: Nela Riehl

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AI:In short

The Committee on Employment and Social Affairs gives its opinion on the proposed Erasmus+ regulation for 2028-2034, which would repeal Regulations (EU) 2021/817 and (EU) 2021/888. It proposes amendments to add a social and labour dimension: a binding minimum earmark of 20% of the total financial envelope for people with fewer opportunities, and a raised indicative envelope of EUR 47.39 billion. It wants volunteering kept distinct from paid work, staff mobility recognised as working time, and three dedicated budget chapters for education and training, youth and sport. It also amends definitions, objectives and inclusion rules, and requires respect for labour rights, decent work and collective agreements throughout the programme.

Position. The Committee on Employment and Social Affairs proposes amendments to the Commission proposal to add a social and labour dimension, reinforcing inclusiveness, decent work and links to employment, without compromising the programme's holistic educational character.

Key points

  1. The opinion frames Erasmus+ employability around holistic personal development, soft skills and adaptability rather than narrow skills delivery, and strengthens the education objective accordingly.
  2. It introduces a binding minimum earmark of 20% of the total financial envelope for people with fewer opportunities, with targeted financial support, housing assistance, pre-financing and full coverage of actual mobility costs.
  3. Inclusion costs must never penalise an application in the evaluation process, and inclusion must be embedded by design in all programme activities.
  4. Volunteering must never substitute for paid employment: it requires a written agreement, a strong learning component, and an explicit ban on replacing jobs or traineeships.
  5. Staff mobility must be recognised as working time and continuing professional development, with replacement, language and accessibility support, stronger Erasmus+ Teacher Academies, and involvement of teachers' organisations and trade unions.
  6. Youth-led organisations and civil society are recognised as essential partners in designing, implementing and evaluating Erasmus+, with structured dialogue and attention to grassroots and small-scale organisations in grant allocation.
  7. Three dedicated budget chapters are reintroduced for education and training, youth and sport, with explicit budget attributions per sector in work programmes.
  8. The indicative financial envelope for 2028-2034 is set at EUR 47.39 billion in current prices.
  9. The programme must not substitute for national public investment in education and should support the European Pillar of Social Rights, including the right to education, training and lifelong learning.
  10. The programme should support basic digital skills for the 44% of the Union population that lacks them, and boost digital competences in formal, non-formal and informal learning.
  11. International cooperation should promote fair and circular mobility, avoid social dumping, ensure adequate social protection, and respect Union values, human rights, academic freedom and international labour standards.
  12. Entities receiving programme support must comply with labour, social and anti-discrimination legislation and must not be subject to final decisions for serious breaches of labour or social standards.

Who is affected

  • People with fewer opportunities: at least 20% of the financial envelope is earmarked for their participation, with targeted support and no penalty in evaluation.
  • Volunteers and volunteering organisations: volunteering must not replace paid work and requires a written agreement and learning component.
  • Teachers, trainers and education staff: mobility must count as working time and continuing professional development, with support measures.
  • Youth organisations and civil society: recognised as policy actors and partners in programme design, implementation and evaluation.
  • Grassroots and small organisations: specific attention in grant allocation and simplified, digitalised procedures.

Figures and deadlines

  • EUR 47.39 billion: indicative financial envelope for the programme for the period 2028-2034, in current prices.
  • At least 20%: share of the total financial envelope allocated to support participation of people with fewer opportunities.
  • 44%: share of the Union population that lacks basic digital skills.
  • 12%: 2030 vocational education and training mobility target.
  • Up to twelve months: maximum period for a volunteering activity.
  • 1 January 2028: date from which the regulation should enter into force and apply.

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Short justification 444 paragraphs

Erasmus+ is one of the EU’s most transformative programmes, changing lives through learning mobility, volunteering and civic engagement. The EMPL opinion adds an essential social and labour dimension to the Commission proposal, reinforcing the programme’s inclusiveness, its respect for decent work, and its relevance for the world of employment, without compromising the holistic educational character that makes Erasmus+ uniquely valuable.

I. Holistic Education as the Foundation of Employability

The core added value of Erasmus+ lies in what it builds beyond formal skills: adaptability, intercultural competence, linguistic ability, critical thinking and the capacity to work in diverse environments. These are precisely the competences that matter most in a labour market where AI and digital tools are increasingly displacing routine tasks. Erasmus+ equips people with what machines cannot replicate.

The EMPL opinion therefore frames the programme’s contribution to employability through this lens. Erasmus+ should not be narrowed into a skills-delivery mechanism; its strength lies in producing genuinely versatile, open-minded people. The specific objective on education has been strengthened to reflect this dual role: supporting holistic personal development while also responding to labour market needs, notably by fostering soft skills that will be ever more decisive in the age of digitalisation.

II. People with Fewer Opportunities: Minimum 20% Earmarking

Despite progress, people with fewer opportunities remain significantly underrepresented in the programme. The opinion introduces a binding minimum earmark of 20% of the total financial envelope dedicated to their participation, accompanied by targeted financial support, housing assistance, pre-financing and full coverage of actual mobility costs. Inclusion must be embedded by design throughout all programme activities and inclusion costs must never penalise an application in the evaluation process.

III. Volunteering: Civic Value, Not Unpaid Work

The integration of the European Solidarity Corps into Erasmus+ requires a firm safeguard: volunteering must never substitute for paid employment. The opinion reinforces the distinction between volunteering and employment, requiring a written agreement, a strong learning component, and an explicit prohibition on using volunteering to replace jobs or traineeships.

IV. Teachers, Trainers and Educators as Multipliers

Education staff are multipliers: a teacher who participates in a mobility activity brings new competences and networks back to an entire school community. The opinion addresses the historic underprioritisation of staff mobility by requiring that it be recognised as working time and as part of continuing professional development, and that replacement, language and accessibility support be provided. Erasmus+ Teacher Academies should be strengthened, and teachers’ organisations and trade unions should be involved in programme governance. Conditions for long-term staff mobility, including salary and social benefit transferability, must be improved.

V. Civil Society and Youth Organisations as Key Partners and Policy Actors

Youth organisations and civil society actors are not merely delivery vehicles for the programme. They are policy actors with expertise and legitimacy that institutional actors cannot replicate. The opinion explicitly recognises youth-led organisations as essential partners in the design, implementation and evaluation of Erasmus+, and strengthens the requirement for structured dialogue with civil society and social partners. Grassroots and small-scale organisations must receive specific attention in grant allocation, keeping the programme genuinely open to those closest to the communities it aims to reach.

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VII. Budget Predictability: Three Sectoral Chapters

Without dedicated budget lines, sectors risk competing against each other in opacity, disadvantaging smaller and grassroots actors. The opinion reintroduces three dedicated budget chapters: education and training, youth, and sport. This strengthens transparency, accountability and planning security for beneficiaries, reflects the distinct policy frameworks of each field, and protects against counterproductive intersectoral competition. Work programmes must include explicit budget attributions per sector, giving organisations the predictability they need for long-term planning.

AMENDMENTS

The Committee on Employment and Social Affairs submits the following to the Committee on Culture and Education, as the committee responsible:

Amendment 1

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(1) The Union needs to support and prepare its people, starting from an early age, with the knowledge, skills and competences needed for success in learning, work, and life. To enable this, the Union needs performing, agile, innovative and inclusive education and training systems, able to nurture, attract and retain talent, to keep up with the pace and scope of the ongoing societal, digital, environmental and economic transformations, respond to the demographic challenges and the society’s and economy’s skills needs, bridge skills gaps and satisfy industry needs in critical sectors.(1) The Union needs to support and prepare its people, starting from an early age, with the knowledge, skills and attitudes that together constitute the competences needed for success in learning, work, and life. To enable this, the Union and its Member States need to ensure that high quality and inclusive education and training systems support all students and learners, to keep up with the pace and scope of the ongoing societal, digital, environmental and economic transformations, respond to the demographic challenges, bridge skills gaps and support learners in developing the competences needed for personal and professional growth, active citizenship and lifelong learning, with all relevant stakeholders safeguarding quality and sustainable employment, decent working conditions, respect for labour rights and collective agreements, and long-term social and territorial cohesion. The report on the future of European competitiveness1a underlines, that, in order to significantly expand participation and reach all young people across the Union, the funding of the Erasmus+ Programme should be significantly increased.
1a https://commission.europa.eu/topics/competitiveness/draghi-report_en

Amendment 2

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 4

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(4) It is essential that all people, irrespective of their personal, social, economic or cultural background, have the opportunity to participate in a mobility experience abroad from an early age, when values and attitudes are formed and when individuals are most receptive to new experiences and influences. Early exposure to different environments, cultures, languages and ways of life can help to break down stereotypes, promote intercultural understanding, and instil values of respect, tolerance and solidarity, thereby contributing to a more united and harmonious Europe.(4) It is essential that all people, irrespective of their personal, social, economic or cultural background and place of residence and without reinforcing socio-economic inequalities or creating unequal access, are encouraged and have the opportunity to participate in a mobility experience abroad from an early age, when values and attitudes are formed and when individuals are most receptive to new experiences and influences. Early exposure to different environments, cultures, languages and ways of life can help to break down stereotypes, promote intercultural understanding, and instil values of respect, tolerance and solidarity, thereby contributing to a more united and harmonious Europe. To consolidate access to equal opportunities, learning mobility needs to be made accessible to learners of all ages so that a culture of lifelong learning is developed. In line with the Council Recommendation of 13 May 2024 entitled “‘Europe on the Move’ - Learning mobility opportunities for everyone” and its target for individuals with fewer opportunities, as well as its objectives to significantly increase the share of higher education graduates and vocational education and training learners benefiting from learning mobility, the allocation of financial resources and the introduction of funding mechanisms should ensure effective outreach to and the inclusion of people with fewer opportunities, particularly those not in education, employment or training (NEETs), who are often overlooked by generalised inclusion measures. Financial support for transport needs to be re-evaluated. It must be adjusted according to distance, but also according to financial and geographical accessibility, so that travel is accessible to everyone, regardless of their place of departure.

Amendment 3

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 5

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(5) Building inclusive, cohesive and resilient societies, and sustaining the competitiveness of the Union requires investing in learning opportunities for all, regardless of background and means, in cooperation between Member States and organisations active in the field, and in innovative policy development in the fields of education and training, youth and sport. Such an investment also contributes to strengthening European identity, fundamental rights and values and a more democratic Union.(5) Building inclusive, cohesive and resilient societies, and sustaining the prosperity of the Union requires investing in learning and training opportunities for all, regardless of background and means, in cooperation between Member States and organisations active in the field, and in innovative policy development in the fields of education and training, youth and sport as areas of public interest. Such an investment also contributes to strengthening European identity, fundamental rights and values and a more democratic Union.

Amendment 4

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 5 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(5a) As part of the Union of Equality, the Programme will address differences in relation to access and use by underrepresented groups, particularly those facing socio-economic, geographic, disability-related or other structural barriers, in line with Article 21 of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights, the Strategy for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the LGBTIQ+ Equality Strategy, the EU Anti-Racism Strategy 2026-2030, and the Roma Strategic Framework for equality, inclusion and participation and the EU Guidelines on Human Rights Defenders. In line with the Roadmap for Women’s Rights and the Gender Equality Strategy, the Programme will also contribute to promote equal opportunities across education and training fields.

Amendment 5

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 6

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(6) In line with the EU Preparedness Union Strategy3 , preparedness, resilience, participation in democratic life and civic engagement should be fostered through a bottom-up approach, encouraging organisations and institutions to play a key role in fostering digital and media literacy, critical thinking, promoting civic engagement, and learning about democracy and citizenship. People and communities across the EU must engage actively to prevent crises and to be sufficiently prepared to respond to them.(6) In line with the EU Preparedness Union Strategy3, preparedness, resilience, participation in democratic life and civic engagement should be fostered through a bottom-up approach, including through quality employment, occupational health and safety, and protection of workers and citizens involved in education, youth and sport activities encouraging organisations and institutions to play a key role in fostering digital media and democratic literacy and critical and ethical thinking, promoting civic engagement , and learning about democracy, European values and citizenship. People and communities across the EU must engage actively to prevent crises and to be sufficiently prepared to respond to them.
3 Joint Communication to the European Parliament, the European Council, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions on the European Preparedness Union Strategy (Join/2025/130 final)).3 Joint Communication to the European Parliament, the European Council, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions on the European Preparedness Union Strategy (Join/2025/130 final)).

Amendment 6

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 7

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(7) Common areas of action and objectives between the 2021-2027 European Solidarity Corps and Erasmus+ programmes highlight the potential for enhanced synergy and regulatory coherence. Bringing all learning mobility, volunteering, cooperation and active citizenship opportunities together provides a single-entry point to all opportunities offered by the Union for young people and organisations active in the field of youth, allowing for a more coordinated and effective approach, and easier access for potential participants and beneficiaries.(7) Common areas of action and objectives between the 2021-2027 European Solidarity Corps and Erasmus+ programmes highlight the potential for enhanced synergy and regulatory coherence. Bringing all learning mobility, volunteering, cooperation and active citizenship opportunities together provides a single-entry point to all opportunities offered by the Union for young people, relevant staff members and organisations active in the field of youth, allowing for a more coordinated and effective approach, while ensuring clarity of employment status, rights and protections for participants, volunteers and staff involved, and easier access for potential participants and beneficiaries.

Amendment 7

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 8

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(8) In this context, it is necessary to establish Erasmus+ 2028-2034, the Union Programme for education and training and also in the fields of youth and sport (the ‘Programme’), as the successor to the 2021-2027 Erasmus+4 and European Solidarity Corps5 Programmes, which encompasses actions in the field of education and training, youth and sport and sets up the European Voluntary Humanitarian Aid Corps.(8) In this context, it is necessary to establish Erasmus+ 2028-2034, the Union Programme for education and training and also in the fields of youth and sport (the ‘Programme’), as the successor to the 2021-2027 Erasmus+4 and European Solidarity Corps5 Programmes, which encompasses actions in the field of education and training, youth and sport and sets up the European Voluntary Humanitarian Aid Corps. The integration of the European Solidarity Corps into the Programme should not compromise on the principles of solidarity, volunteering and civic engagement that characterise it, and should ensure continuity, accessibility and quality, in particular for young people with fewer opportunities and for grassroots organisations implementing volunteering and solidarity activities. Volunteering and solidarity activities form a core part of civic engagement for people of all ages and should be recognised and supported as valuable learning and participation opportunities. Those activities should remain clearly distinct from formal employment and traineeships, while preserving the unique purpose and added value of volunteering.
4 Regulation (EU) 2021/817 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 May 2021 establishing Erasmus+: the Union Programme for education and training, youth and sport (OJ L 189, 28.5.2021).4 Regulation (EU) 2021/817 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 May 2021 establishing Erasmus+: the Union Programme for education and training, youth and sport (OJ L 189, 28.5.2021).
5 Regulation (EU) 2021/888 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 May 2021 establishing the European Solidarity Corps Programme (OJ L 202, 8.6.2021).5 Regulation (EU) 2021/888 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 May 2021 establishing the European Solidarity Corps Programme (OJ L 202, 8.6.2021).

Amendment 8

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 9

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(9) In a rapidly changing economic, social and geopolitical environment, experience has shown the need for a more flexible multiannual financial framework and Union spending programmes. To that effect, and in line with the objectives of the Erasmus+ programme, the funding should duly consider the evolving policy needs and Union’s priorities as identified in relevant documents published by the Commission, in Council conclusions and European Parliament resolutions, while ensuring sufficient predictability for the budget implementation.(9) Funding for the Erasmus+ programme should duly consider the evolving policy needs and Union’s priorities as identified in European Parliament resolutions, Council conclusions and relevant documents published by the Commission, and ensure predictability for the budget implementation. In order to ensure that the Programme effectively reaches those who face the greatest barriers to participation, a significant share of the financial envelope should be dedicated to supporting people with fewer opportunities, including through targeted financial support, adapted funding mechanisms and inclusive implementation measures. Such an approach is essential to address structural obstacles, prevent socio-economic disparities in access to mobility and ensure that the Programme contributes to social cohesion and equal opportunities across the Union.

Amendment 9

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 9 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(9a) Erasmus+ is a complementary Union investment and should not be construed as a substitute for sustainable public investment in education at national level. The Programme should be implemented in a way that reinforces efficient public education budgets and supports the full implementation of the European Pillar of Social Rights, in particular the right to education, training and lifelong learning.

Amendment 10

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 10

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(10) The Programme should support the implementation of the Union of Skills6 and the overall strategic frameworks for Union policy cooperation in the fields of education and training, including the policy agendas for school education, higher education, vocational education and training and adult learning, including up-skilling and re-skilling, to allow citizens to develop competences and skills at all stages of their life to thrive in society.(10) The Programme should maintain a strong and explicit focus on learning mobility as the Programme’s core added value. The funding should ensure stable and predictable support for mobility actions, enabling broad participation. The Programme should also support the implementation of the European Education Area including the Union of Skills6 and the overall strategic frameworks for Union policy cooperation in the fields of education and training, including the policy agendas for school education, higher education, vocational education and training adult learning, and non-formal and informal learning, including up-skilling and re-skilling, to allow citizens to develop competences and skills at all stages of their life to thrive in society. The Programme should maintain an interdisciplinary approach. The Programme should explicitly support vocational education and training and work-based learning, as these pathways are essential to address skills shortages and strengthen competitiveness. To that aim, the Programme should support partnerships for cooperation that facilitate the participation of small and medium-sized enterprises as host organisations for work-based learning and mobility, while ensuring that financial support benefits the individuals undertaking mobility and that participating organisations contribute appropriately to the objectives and activities of the Programme.
6 Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the European Council, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions the Union of Skills (COM/2025/90 final).6 Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the European Council, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions the Union of Skills (COM/2025/90 final).

Amendment 11

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 11

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(11) In line with the EU Youth Strategy7 , the European Youth Work Agenda8 and the 2024 Communication on the legacy of the European Year of Youth 20229 , the Programme should support meaningful participation of young people and youth organisations in decision and policy making, youth mainstreaming across policy fields, the validation of non-formal and informal learning, high-quality youth work and competence development of youth workers. The programme will continue to support all young people to participate in learning mobility and non-formal learning mobility, including youth exchanges and youth participation activities, with the objective to engage and empower young people to acquire and develop competences for life and their professional future, to become active citizens and participate in economic, social, cultural, democratic and political life, and to connect them to the European project and contribute to building an inclusive, competitive and resilient Union.(11) In line with the EU Youth Strategy7, the European Youth Work Agenda8 and the 2024 Communication on the legacy of the European Year of Youth 20229, the Programme should support meaningful participation of young people and youth organisations in decision and policy making, youth mainstreaming across policy fields, the validation of non-formal and informal learning, high-quality youth work and competence development of youth workers. The programme will continue to support all young people, relevant staff members and organisations to participate in learning mobility and non-formal learning mobility, including youth exchanges and youth participation activities, with the objective to engage and empower young people to acquire and develop competences for life and their professional future, to become active citizens and participate in economic, social, cultural, democratic and political life, and to connect them to the European project and contribute to building an inclusive, prosperous and resilient Union. Youth organisations, particularly youth-led organisations, amplify that impact by fostering meaningful youth participation, acting as a bridge between young people and institutions, ensuring that their expert perspectives are reflected in the design, implementation and evaluation of the Programme.
7 Resolution of the Council of the European Union and the Representatives of the Governments of the Member States meeting within the Council on a framework for European cooperation in the youth field: The European Union Youth Strategy 2019-2027 (OJ C 456, ST/14944/2018/INIT, 18.12.2018).7 Resolution of the Council of the European Union and the Representatives of the Governments of the Member States meeting within the Council on a framework for European cooperation in the youth field: The European Union Youth Strategy 2019-2027 (OJ C 456, ST/14944/2018/INIT, 18.12.2018).
8 Resolution of the Council and of the Representatives of the Governments of the Member States meeting within the Council on the Framework for establishing a European Youth Work Agenda 2020/C 415/01 (OJ C 415, 1.12.2020).8 Resolution of the Council and of the Representatives of the Governments of the Member States meeting within the Council on the Framework for establishing a European Youth Work Agenda 2020/C 415/01 (OJ C 415, 1.12.2020).
9 Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions on the European Year of Youth 2022 (COM/2024/1 final, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/en/txt/?uri=celex:52024dc0001)9 Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions on the European Year of Youth 2022 (COM/2024/1 final, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/en/txt/?uri=celex:52024dc0001)

Amendment 12

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 11 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(11a) In line with the Herning Declaration on attractive and inclusive Vocational Education and Training for increased competitiveness and quality jobs 2026-2030 and the Council Recommendation of 13 May 2024 entitled “‘Europe on the Move’ - Learning mobility opportunities for everyone”, the Programme should contribute to enhancing the attractiveness of vocation education and training (VET) and parity of esteem with general academic education. In particular, the Programme should take into account the specific characteristics of VET in order to help achieve the 2030 VET mobility target of 12 %.

Amendment 13

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 11 b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(11b) The Programme should contribute to fostering a European dialogue on vocational education and training (VET) in the context of the upcoming European VET strategy, in particular with respect to social partners, with a view to developing a common understanding of quality in VET. Such a dialogue should address issues such as the duration of programmes, the role of initial VET as the foundation for further and continuing training, school-company cooperation and the legal status and remuneration of apprentices and learners.

Amendment 14

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 12

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(12) The Programme should support participation in sport and physical activity for all, in line with the EU Work Plan for Sport 2024-202710 . Therefore, there is a need to focus, in particular, on grassroots sport, taking into account the important role that sport plays in promoting healthy lifestyles, interpersonal relations, social inclusion and equality as well as building cohesive communities.(12) The Programme should contribute participation in sport and physical activity for all, in line with the EU Work Plan for Sport 2024-202710. The Programme shall prioritise grassroots sport projects contributing to social inclusion and employability, particularly through dual career pathways, taking into account the important role that sport plays in promoting healthy lifestyles, interpersonal relations, social inclusion and equality as well as building cohesive communities.
10 Resolution of the Council and of the Representatives of the Governments of the Member States meeting within the Council on the European Union Work Plan for Sport (1 July 2024 — 31 December 2027), (OJ C, C/2024/3527, 3.6.2024).10 Resolution of the Council and of the Representatives of the Governments of the Member States meeting within the Council on the European Union Work Plan for Sport (1 July 2024 — 31 December 2027), (OJ C, C/2024/3527, 3.6.2024).

Amendment 15

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 13

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(13) Digital transformation has changed society and the economy with an ever-deepening impact on everyday life and demonstrated the need for higher levels of digital readiness and capacity of education and training as well as the pressing need for digital skills development for all across the Union.(13) Digital transformation has changed society and the economy with an ever-deepening impact of digital technologies and Artificial Intelligence on everyday life and demonstrated the need for higher levels of digital readiness and capacity of education and training as well as the pressing need for digital skills development for all across the Union. The Programme should support the development of basic digital skills for the 44 % of the Union population that lacks them, while boosting the development of digital competences in formal, non-formal and informal learning environments. Basic digital skills are key for both employability and for personal development, democratic participation and social inclusion throughout life.

Amendment 16

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 15

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(15) The international dimension of the Programme should aim to offer opportunities for learning mobility, cooperation and policy dialogue with third countries not associated to the Programme, building on the experience of predecessor programmes, including to contribute to competitiveness of the Union, while ensuring protection of the Union’s economic security interests. To increase the impact of those activities, it is important to enhance synergies between the Programme and Global Europe, taking into account the enlargement of the Union, the Global Gateway Strategy and the education and training, youth and sport policy frameworks.(15) The international dimension of the Programme should aim to offer more opportunities for learning mobility, cooperation and policy dialogue with third countries not associated to the Programme, building on the experience of predecessor programmes, including to contribute to social progress and inclusive innovation, partnerships, citizenship engagement, global solidarity and competitiveness of the Union, while ensuring protection of the Union’s economic security and knowledge interests and the respect of its values. To increase the impact of those activities, it is important to enhance synergies between the Programme and Global Europe, taking into account the enlargement of the Union, the Global Gateway Strategy and the education and training, youth and sport policy frameworks. Such cooperation should also promote comprehensive lifelong learning systems globally, including mutual recognition of non-formal and informal learning, including prior learning.

Amendment 17

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 16

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(16) The Programme should bring candidate countries and potential candidates closer to their goal of acceding to the Union. The Programme should promote stability, partnerships and skills development, with countries in the wider neighbourhood including by enhancing ties with the Mediterranean region. Through cooperation with other countries across the globe, the Programme should as well attract talents worldwide, and shape partnerships notably to promote competitiveness of the Union. The Programme should support countries in modernising their institutions and organisations and, more generally, enhancing the quality and inclusiveness of education, training, youth and sport through international partnerships.(16) The Programme should bring candidate countries and potential candidates closer to their goal of acceding to the Union. The Programme should promote stability, partnerships and skills development, with countries in the wider neighbourhood including by enhancing ties with the Mediterranean region, in a manner that supports social cohesion, upward social convergence and the strengthening of public education and youth systems. Through cooperation with other countries across the globe, the Programme should shape partnerships, and the exchange of students, adult learners and staff working in education and training and the social progress and inclusive innovation of the Union, while promoting fair and circular mobility for learners and staff, avoiding social dumping and ensuring fair mobility and adequate social protection for learners, workers and volunteers. The Programme should support countries in modernising their institutions and organisations and, more generally, enhancing the quality and inclusiveness of education, training, youth and sport through international partnerships, in full respect of the Union's values, human rights, academic freedom and international labour standards. Policies aimed at attracting and retaining talent should avoid reinforcing employment insecurity, excessive competition or short-term contractualisation in education and research sectors. Substantive equality requires addressing inequalities in access to stable employment, training opportunities and career progression, particularly for women, persons with disabilities, migrants and young workers.

Amendment 18

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 17

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(17) The implementation of the Programme should be guided by the principles and values of respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality and the rule of law, and solidarity, as respectively enshrined in Article 2 of the Treaty of the European Union and referred to in the preamble of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union. It is thus essential that all parties involved in the Programme respect those principles and values. The Programme should as well respect the principles set out in the 2017 EU Guidelines for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of the Child and in Article 9 of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities as well as the Union of Equality strategies.(17) The implementation of the Programme should be guided by the principles and values of respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality and the rule of law, and solidarity, as respectively enshrined in Article 2 of the Treaty of the European Union and referred to in the preamble of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union. It is thus essential that all parties involved in the Programme respect those principles and values. The programme should contribute to the promotion and protection of rights enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Rights, in particular in its Article 8 (protection of personal data), Article 11 (freedom of expression and information), Article 13 (freedom of arts and sciences, including academic freedom), Article 14 (right to education), Article 15 (freedom to choose an occupation and right to engage in work), Articles 20 and 21 (equality and non-discrimination), Article 22 (cultural, religious and linguistic diversity), Article 23 (equality between women and men), Article 24 (rights of the child), Article 26 (rights of persons with disabilities), Article 31 (fair and just working conditions), Article 33 (family and professional life) and Articles 39 to 46 (citizens’ rights). The Programme should as well respect the principles set out in the 2017 EU Guidelines for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of the Child and in Article 9 of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities as well as the Union of Equality strategies. No Union funds should be allocated to entities or activities that undermine academic freedom, labour rights, non-discrimination, or the rights enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Rights (of persons with disabilities, migrants and refugees). Organisations and managing authorities should ensure the respect of the above-mentioned values by the participants and beneficiaries. The Programme should contribute to supporting (also support) the principle of democratic governance of education systems and education and training institutions by ensuring the right to organise for students and staff, and by respecting social dialogue and collective agreements. Access to the Programme should be conditioned on the respect of these rights, values and principles by the beneficiaries. Further, social partners and other stakeholders in the area of education and training policy should be closely involved in the implementation of the Programme.

Amendment 19

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 19

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(19) The Programme should offer accessible, inclusive and safe opportunities for young people and organisations to show solidarity, helping them support communities and address societal challenges, while gaining valuable experience and skills for their personal growth and employability.(19) The Programme should offer accessible, inclusive and safe opportunities for young people and organisations to show solidarity, helping them support communities and address societal challenges, while providing them with valuable experience and skills for their personal growth and professional development.

Amendment 20

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 19 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(19a) The programme should pay particular attention to young people living in rural areas, regions with structural disadvantages, cross-border areas, outermost regions and overseas countries and territories affected by depopulation. To that end, it shall encourage initiatives that promote skills development, entrepreneurship and the creation of economic opportunities in those regions, contributing to strengthening territorial cohesion and ensuring that young people can choose to stay and develop their life plans in their home communities.

Amendment 21

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 19 b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(19b) The programme should pay particular attention to young people living in rural areas, regions with structural disadvantages, cross-border areas, outermost regions and overseas countries and territories affected by depopulation. To that end, it shall encourage initiatives that promote skills development, entrepreneurship and the creation of economic opportunities in those regions, contributing to strengthening territorial cohesion and ensuring that young people can choose to stay and develop their life plans in their home communities.

Amendment 22

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 21 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(21a) Volunteering, including in civil protection and emergency response organisations, such as firefighting and rescue services, is an essential contribution to Europe’s resilience and social cohesion. The Programme should support accessible and accessible learning mobility and training opportunities for volunteers and organisations active in these areas, in particular to strengthen cross-border preparedness, solidarity, and community engagement.

Amendment 23

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 22

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(22) Young people, in particular those with fewer opportunities, should continue to be given the chance to have a first time, experience travelling throughout Europe as part of an informal and non-formal educational activity that aims to foster their sense of belonging to the Union and to enable them to discover its cultural and linguistic diversity.(22) Young people, in particular those with fewer opportunities should continue to be given the chance to have a first time, experience travelling throughout Europe as part of an informal and non-formal educational activity that aims to foster their sense of belonging to the Union and to enable them to discover its cultural and linguistic diversity. This should be facilitated through targeted financial support covering real living costs, including housing, transport, healthcare and accessibility needs. The Programme should be operated in a way that ensures equal opportunity for all eligible young people.

Amendment 24

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 23

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(23) In the field of sport, through mobility opportunities and capacity building, including cooperation, the Programme should foster common European values, volunteering as well as innovation and skills development in and through sport. The Programme should also promote good governance, safety and integrity in sport, sport diplomacy, support grassroots sports organisations, as well as offer young people across Europe the opportunity to participate in cross-border sports initiatives, fostering personal growth, cultural exchange, solidarity and community engagement.(23) In the field of sport, through mobility opportunities and capacity building, including cooperation, the Programme should foster common European values, volunteering as well as innovation and skills development in and through sport. The Programme should also promote good governance, safety and integrity in sport, sport diplomacy, support grassroots sports organisations, as well as offer young people across Europe the opportunity to participate in cross-border sports initiatives, fostering personal growth, cultural exchange, solidarity and community engagement. Special attention in that field should be paid to the inclusion of learners with fewer opportunities and learners with physical and mental disabilities.

Amendment 25

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 24

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(24) The Programme brings a key contribution to the Union of Skills and the European Education Area, laying the foundation to skills and competences formation throughout life and providing a genuine common space for quality education and lifelong learning across borders. The Union of skills aims to step up the efforts to achieve high quality education, training, and lifelong learning through delivering basic and advanced skills, providing opportunities for people to update regularly and acquire new and future-oriented skills, facilitating skills circulation and recruitment by businesses across the EU, and attracting, developing and retaining top talent in Europe. In line with the Union of Skills, the Programme should also reflect the importance of entrepreneurship education and financial literacy.(24) The Programme brings a key contribution to the European Education Area, including the Union of Skills, laying the foundation to skills and competences formation throughout life and providing a genuine common space for quality education and lifelong learning across borders. The Union of skills aims to step up the efforts to acquire knowledge and achieve high quality education, training, and lifelong learning through delivering basic and advanced skills, providing opportunities for people to update regularly and acquire new and future-oriented skills, facilitating skills circulation and recruitment by businesses across the EU, and attracting, developing and retaining top talent in Europe. It also aims to provide life skills essential for people’s resilience and their capacity to promote Union values such as democracy, human rights, solidarity, social inclusion and diversity. In line with the Union of Skills, the Programme should also reflect the importance of entrepreneurship education and financial literacy.

Amendment 26

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 24 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(24a) The Programme should adequately support education staff across all sectors, including teachers, trainers and youth workers, with particular attention to the teaching profession as a distinct target group, by promoting the attractiveness of these professions, strengthening long-term organisational capacity, ensuring the transfer of innovative educational practices across sectors, and contributing meaningfully to the implementation of the EU Teachers and Trainers Agenda, including by reinforcing the work of the Erasmus+ Teacher Academies and supporting policy development aimed at improving the recruitment and retention of educators and diversifying staff profiles in education and training; it should also contribute to improving the quality and inclusiveness of initial education and continuous professional development, ensure access to mobility as a recognised component of initial teacher education and continuing professional development, including through appropriate support measures such as replacement arrangements, guidance for participation and the transfer of salaries and social benefits in the case of long-term mobility, and ensure the involvement of teachers’ organisations and trade unions in the organisation of projects and the implementation of the Programme.

Amendment 27

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 25

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(25) It is important to stimulate and widen access to learning, teaching and research on EU, values and citizenship. Fostering a European sense of belonging and commitment is particularly important given the challenges faced today by the Union. The Programme should continue to contribute to learning on European integration matters, including the Union’s future challenges and opportunities, to promote debate on those matters and the development of excellence in European integration studies.(25) It is important to stimulate and widen access to learning, teaching and research on the European Union, its fundamental values and European citizenship. Fostering a European sense of belonging, based on respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and human rights, and commitment is particularly important in the context of the internal and external challenges faced by the Union. The Programme should continue to contribute to learning on European integration matters, including the Union’s future challenges and opportunities, to promote debate on those matters and the development of excellence in European integration studies, ensuring that teaching and research activities supported under the Programme are carried out under conditions that respect academic staff employment rights, contractual stability and academic freedom.

Amendment 28

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 26

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(26) The learning of languages contributes to mutual understanding between people and cultures, and fosters mobility within and outside the Union, as language competences are essential life and job skills. Therefore, the Programme should enhance the learning of languages, including, where relevant, national sign languages. To ensure broad and inclusive access to the Programme, it is important that multilingualism be a key principle in the implementation of the Programme.(26) The learning of languages contributes to mutual understanding between people and cultures, and fosters mobility within and outside the Union, as language competences are essential life and job skills. Therefore, the Programme should enhance the learning of languages, including national sign languages, easy-to-read formats and assistive technologies. To ensure broad and inclusive access to the Programme, it is important that multilingualism be a key principle in the implementation of the Programme. Linguistic diversity should also be promoted through fair working conditions and recognition of language teachers, trainers and cultural workers involved in multilingual education.

Amendment 29

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 27

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(27) Europe faces a growing challenge in meeting the demand for skilled talent in strategic and evolving sectors like clean and circular technologies, transport, energy, water resilience, healthcare, digital technologies, aerospace and defence. To address this key need, it is essential to develop, attract and retain talented individuals in these fields. In line with the Union of skills, the Programme should among other support EU students to pursue studies in such critical sectors and attract as well top talent to Europe by enhancing the attractiveness of education and training and offering scholarships to students, including through Erasmus Mundus scholarships. This would contribute to address the skills needs for the labour market, including for sectors suffering severe staff shortages.(27) Europe faces a growing challenge in meeting the demand for skilled labour in strategic and evolving sectors like clean and circular technologies, transport, energy, water resilience, healthcare, digital technologies and AI, aerospace, construction and defence. To address this key need, it is essential support access of individuals to education and training in these fields. In line with the Union of skills, the Programme should among other support EU students to pursue studies in all sectors as well as anyone wishing to study in Europe by enhancing the attractiveness of education and training and offering scholarships to students, including through Erasmus Mundus scholarships. This would contribute to address the skills needs for the labour market, including for sectors suffering severe staff shortages. Quality jobs, fair wages, fairly remunerated traineeships social protection and collective bargaining are essential elements to address skills shortages.

Amendment 30

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 28

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(28) Cooperation enables exchange of practices and capacity building and thereby leads to better outcomes and performance as well as efficiency gains by pooling resources and knowledge. The Programme should therefore support capacity building measures that enhance cooperation at different levels between institutions and organisations that are active in the fields of education and training, youth and sport. This recognises the fundamental role of institutions and organisations in equipping individuals with the knowledge, skills and competences needed in a changing world and helping institutions and organisations active in the field to adequately fulfil their potential for innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship, in particular within the digital economy.(28) Cooperation enables exchange of practices, innovation and capacity building and thereby leads to better outcomes and performance as well as efficiency gains by pooling resources and knowledge. The Programme should therefore support capacity building measures that enhance cooperation at different levels between institutions and organisations that are active in the fields of education and training, youth and sport. This recognises the fundamental role of institutions and organisations in equipping individuals with the knowledge, skills, attitudes and competences needed in a changing world and helping institutions and organisations active in the field to adequately fulfil their potential for innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship, in particular within the digital economy. Aligned with the Union of Skills objectives, the Programme should contribute to piloting community learning spaces, thereby fostering collaboration between the diverse range of stakeholders needed to achieve the aim of piloting community learning spaces.

Amendment 31

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 29

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(29) The Programme should support long-term strategic cooperation at institutional level to build excellence, competitiveness and attractiveness and generate sustainable and systemic transformation of education and training, youth and sport organisations and institutions, in line with the EU’s priorities, including by acting as testbeds for innovative education, training and skills development instruments, supporting cooperation with business and industry. The Programme should continue to support the work of education and training institutions and Member States towards removing remaining barriers to transnational cooperation and multiplying the offer of transnational joint study programmes, contributing towards a joint European Degree11 .(29) The Programme should support long-term strategic cooperation at institutional level to build excellence and attractiveness and generate sustainable and systemic transformation of education and training, youth and sport organisations and institutions, in line with the EU’s priorities, including by acting as testbeds for innovative education, training and skills development instruments, supporting cooperation with business and industry. The Programme should continue to support the work of education and training institutions and Member States towards removing remaining barriers to transnational cooperation, especially for VET curricula and VET students mobility, and multiplying the offer of transnational joint study programmes, contributing towards a joint European Degree11.
11 Council Resolution on a joint European degree label and the next steps towards a possible joint European degree: boosting Europe’s competitiveness and the attractiveness of European higher education. (J C, C/2025/2939, 22.5.2025).11 Council Resolution on a joint European degree label and the next steps towards a possible joint European degree: boosting Europe’s competitiveness and the attractiveness of European higher education. (J C, C/2025/2939, 22.5.2025).

Amendment 32

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 30

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(30) The Programme should support the core education mission of the European Universities Alliances to enable systemic impact achieved more efficiently through long-term Union level action, notably to reinforce excellence, reduce fragmentation and increase the attractiveness and inclusiveness of EU higher education systems, develop innovative instruments to increase quality of learning and teaching, develop future oriented skills and competences (such as AI, cybersecurity, sustainability, STEM), including the sectors already identified in the Union of Skills, through relevant and future-proof curricula, pedagogical innovation, joint degrees, lifelong learning, micro-credentials, to nurture and attract talent and facilitate transnational cooperation in education, including with business and industry.(30) The Programme should support the core education mission of the European Universities Alliances, Centres of Vocational Excellence and Erasmus+ Teacher Academies to enable systemic impact achieved more efficiently through long-term Union level action, notably to reinforce excellence, reduce fragmentation and increase the attractiveness and inclusiveness of EU higher education and VET systems, develop innovative instruments to increase quality of learning and teaching, develop future oriented skills and competences (such as AI, cybersecurity, sustainability, STEAM), including the sectors already identified in the Union of Skills, through relevant and future-proof curricula, pedagogical innovation, joint degrees, lifelong learning, micro-credentials and individual learning accounts, to nurture and attract talent and facilitate transnational cooperation in education, including with business and industry.

Amendment 33

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 30 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(30a) The Programme should continue to support Jean Monnet actions, which promote excellence in teaching and research on European integration, foster knowledge about the Union and its functioning, and contribute to strengthening European identity, active citizenship and democratic participation. The Commission should set up adequate, transparent and simple monitoring and reporting requirements to monitor the activities, progress, performance goals and added value of the Jean Monnet Designated Institutions, which should maintain their non-profit status and outlook and remain accountable and transparent. Such monitoring and reporting should take place while the programme is ongoing and ex-post.

Amendment 34

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 32

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(32) User-friendly online platforms and tools for virtual cooperation can play an important role in supporting the delivery of education and training and youth policy in Europe and beyond. To increase the use of virtual cooperation activities, the Programme should support more systematic and coherent use of online platforms. It should as well facilitate and support mobility processes through digitalisation.(32) User-friendly online platforms and tools for virtual cooperation can play an important role in supporting the delivery of education and training and youth policy in Europe and beyond. To increase the use of virtual cooperation activities, the Programme should support more systematic and coherent use of online platforms. It should as well facilitate and support mobility processes through digitalisation while ensuring accessibility of these processes for applicants with disabilities. It should also continuously support the development of online platforms and tools by incorporating a structural mechanism for user feedback, so that they are tailored to meet the realities on the ground and the needs for simplification.

Amendment 35

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 33

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(33) The Programme should be designed to promote inclusion, diversity and equal opportunities by widening access to mobility, volunteering and learning across the Union and beyond, thereby enabling all people to fully benefit from a transformative experience.(33) The Programme should be designed to promote inclusion, diversity and equal opportunities by widening access to sustainable mobility, volunteering and learning across the Union and beyond, thereby enabling all people to fully benefit from a transformative experience, regardless of socio-economic background, employment status, disability, place of residence or other structural barriers that may limit participation.

Amendment 36

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 34

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(34) The Programme should provide for a set of measures to facilitate and increase the access for people with fewer opportunities, to remove the obstacles that may prevent such access, including financial ones, and to serve as a basis for further implementation guidance. Those measures include, among other, targeted financial support, accessible learning formats, housing support, preparatory activities and support for participants with fewer opportunities before, during and after their participation within the Programme, user-friendly and accessible documents available in different languages, support activities for staff dealing specifically with inclusion and diversity in organisations and raising awareness activities among potential participants with fewer opportunities, including in rural and remote areas. In addition, the Programme should allow to give priority in the grant awarding process to quality projects that actively address the inclusion and involvement of participants with fewer opportunities.(34) The Programme should provide for a set of measures to facilitate and increase the access for people with fewer opportunities, to remove the obstacles that may prevent such access, including financial ones, and to serve as a basis for further implementation guidance. Those measures include, among other, targeted financial support, taking into account the difference of actual living and subsistence costs, accessible learning formats, housing support, preparatory activities and support for participants with fewer opportunities before, during and after their participation within the Programme, user-friendly and accessible documents available in different languages, support activities for staff dealing specifically with inclusion and diversity in organisations and raising awareness activities among potential participants with fewer opportunities, including in rural, island and remote areas. In addition, the Programme should give priority in the grant awarding process to quality projects that actively address the inclusion and involvement of participants with fewer opportunities, ensuring adequate funding and stability of such measures.

Amendment 37

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 35

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(35) In order to make the Programme more accessible for newcomer organisations and for organisations with smaller administrative capacity and to make the Programme more manageable for beneficiaries, the Programme should reinforce the measures to simplify procedures at all stages.(35) In order to make the Programme more accessible for newcomer organisations and for organisations with smaller administrative capacity and to make the Programme more manageable for beneficiaries, the Programme should reinforce the measures to simplify and digitalise procedures at all stages, while ensuring support that enables all eligible organisations, regardless of size, to participate effectively in the Programme’s actions, while ensuring that simplification does not reduce accessibility for informal and non-formal, community-based and adult education providers.

Amendment 38

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 37

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(37) In view of the diversity of the fields covered by the Programme, the ambition for youth and sport to contribute meaningfully to the Programme’s objectives and to reach its target groups, should be maintained.(37) In view of the diversity of the fields covered by the Programme, the ambition for youth and sport to contribute meaningfully to the Programme’s objectives and to reach its target groups, should be maintained and made operational through clear budgetary transparency and dedicated Union budget lines for (1) education and training, (2) youth and (3) sports. Such budgetary visibility strengthens transparency, accountability and planning security for beneficiaries, reflects the distinct policy frameworks and target groups of each sector, and supports the effective implementation of relevant Union strategies, including the EU Youth Strategy and the European dimension in sport. It also helps avoid counterproductive competition between sectors, ensures that the Programme remains balanced and accessible, and safeguards the social and educational character of youth work and grassroots sport, as well as decent working conditions for staff and volunteers involved.

Amendment 39

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 38

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(38) Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 of the European Parliament and of the Council12 applies to this Programme. It lays down the rules on the establishment and the implementation of the general budget of the Union, including the rules on grants, prizes, non-financial donations, procurement, indirect management, financial assistance, financial instruments, budgetary guarantees and protection of the financial interests of the Union.(38) Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 of the European Parliament and of the Council12 applies to this Programme. It lays down the rules on the establishment and the implementation of the general budget of the Union, including the rules on grants, prizes, non-financial donations, procurement, indirect management, financial assistance, financial instruments, budgetary guarantees and protection of the financial interests of the Union, which should be applied in a proportionate manner and in full compatibility with the Programme’s social and inclusion objectives.
12 Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 September 2024 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union. (OJ L, 2024/2509, 26.9.2024).12 Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 September 2024 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union. (OJ L, 2024/2509, 26.9.2024).

Amendment 40

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 40

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(40) In order to simplify requirements for beneficiaries, simplified cost options in the form of lump sums, unit costs and flat rates should be used to the maximum possible extent. Simplified cost options to support learning mobility under the Programme should take into account the living and subsistence costs in the host country. In accordance with national law, Member States should be encouraged to exempt those grants from any taxes and social levies; grants awarded to individuals by public or private legal entities should be treated in the same manner.(40) In order to simplify requirements for beneficiaries, simplified cost options in the form of lump sums, unit costs and flat rates should be used to the maximum possible extent, provided that they are based on clear, transparent and evidence-based methodologies. Simplified cost options to support learning mobility under the Programme should take into account the real cost of mobility when defining the travel, living and subsistence allowances in the host country, in order to prevent financial hardship, in-work poverty or unequal access based on socio-economic background. , Member States are encouraged to exempt those grants from any taxes or social levies, in order to promote equal access, social inclusion or decent living conditions for participants; grants awarded to individuals by public or private legal entities should be treated in the same manner. In addition to travel, living and subsistence allowances, the Programme should support the transferability or compensation of salaries and social benefits of participants where applicable. This is particularly relevant in case of long-term mobility.

Amendment 41

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 42

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(42) In line with Article 349 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU), the Programme should take into account the specific situation of the outermost regions referred to in that Article, including measures to facilitate their participation to the Programme.(42) In line with Article 349 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU), the Programme should take into account the specific situation of the outermost regions referred to in that Article, including measures to financially facilitate their participation in the Programme and to address additional social, employment-related and cost-of-living challenges faced by participants and beneficiaries in those regions.

Amendment 42

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 45

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(45) In view to optimise the added value, increase scale and impact of investments, synergies should be sought in particular between the Programme and other Union funding instruments, including through enabling mechanisms. The Programme should seek as well synergies that strengthen collaboration between education and the private sector.(45) In view to optimise the added value, increase scale and impact of investments, synergies should be sought in particular between the Programme and other Union funding instruments, such as the European Social Fund (ESF), the European Competitiveness Fund, Horizon Europe, AgoraEU, and the National and Regional Partnership Plans, including through enabling mechanisms. The Programme should also seek synergies that strengthen collaboration between education and training systems, and other stakeholders active in the private sector, within the communities where education and training institutions operate and the third sector, provided that such collaboration respects the public interest, academic freedom and labour standards, and does not lead to undue commercial influence or precarious employment.

Amendment 43

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 47 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(47a) Local and regional authorities play a fundamental role in the implementation and success of the Programme. Decentralised management through one or more national agencies is a major strength of Erasmus+, enabling proximity to beneficiaries, outreach to newcomers and small organisations, and effective consideration of regional, cultural and linguistic diversity, including in border regions. In Member States whose constitutional or governance structures require it, the possibility to designate more than one national agency should be maintained, as it supports efficient programme delivery, reinforces inclusion and local impact, and preserves the Programme’s grassroots character.

Amendment 44

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 48

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(48) The Programme should mobilise the potential of former participants in the Erasmus+ Programme and support related activities by encouraging them to promote the Programme.(48) The Programme should mobilise the potential of former participants in the Erasmus+ Programme and support related activities by encouraging them to promote the Programme, without replacing paid staff or professional outreach activities.

Amendment 45

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 49

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(49) Measures should be taken to streamline the management of the Programme and achieve economies of scale including by limiting and reducing the number of national agencies.(49) Measures should be taken to streamline the management of the Programme and achieve economies of scale including by providing technical support, resources, training and coordination to ensure a consistent and coherent implementation of the Programme by all national and executive agencies and provided that such measures do not result in the deterioration of service quality, reduced proximity to beneficiaries, job losses or precarious employment conditions. Such measures shall not undermine the accessibility, outreach or operational capacity of national agencies, nor the support provided at any level to organisations and beneficiaries, including grassroots organisations.

Amendment 46

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 51

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(51) In order to ensure continuity in providing support in the relevant policy area and to allow implementation to start from the beginning of the 2028-2034 MFF, this Regulation should enter into force on and apply from 1 January 2028.(51) In order to ensure continuity in providing support in the relevant policy area, to avoid disruptions that could negatively affect participants or beneficiaries and their staff, as well as to allow implementation to start from the beginning of the 2028-2034 MFF, this Regulation should enter into force on and apply from 1 January 2028. The transition should prioritise continuity of support to beneficiaries and participants, particularly those with fewer opportunities, should not lead to delays in funding and should avoid negative consequences for employment, contractual continuity and working conditions in organisations implementing the Programme.

Amendment 47

Proposal for a regulation

Article 1 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
This Regulation establishes Erasmus+, the Union programme for action in the fields of education and training and also in the fields of youth and sport (the ‘Programme’) and lays down the objectives of the Programme, its budget for the period 2028-2034, the forms of Union funding and the rules for providing such funding. This Regulation also sets up the European Voluntary Humanitarian Aid Corps.This Regulation establishes Erasmus+, the Union programme for action in the fields of education and training and also in the fields of youth and sport (the ‘Programme’) and lays down the objectives of the Programme, its budget for the period 2028-2034, the forms of Union funding and the rules for providing such funding. This Regulation also sets up the European Voluntary Humanitarian Aid Corps. The Programme shall contribute to education, training, youth, sport and volunteering as areas of public interest and shall be implemented in a manner that promotes social justice, equality, decent work and democratic participation.

Amendment 48

Proposal for a regulation

Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(1) ‘adult learner’ means a person who has left or finished initial education and training and engages in formal, non-formal or informal learning, including NEET;(1) ‘adult learner’ means a person, including those not in education, employment or training (NEET), who has left or finished initial education and training and engages in formal, non-formal or informal learning, with the aim of supporting among others, personal development, active citizenship, social inclusion and access to quality and sustainable employment;

Amendment 49

Proposal for a regulation

Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(2) ‘adult learning’ means any form of formal, non-formal or informal learning for adults, encompassing opportunities for skills development, upskilling and reskilling for competitiveness, enhancing social cohesion and supporting active participation in society;(2) ‘adult learning’ means any form of formal, non-formal or informal learning for adults, encompassing opportunities for skills development, including social skills, as well as upskilling and reskilling, for enhancing personal and social progress and inclusive innovation, social cohesion and supporting active participation in society, including access to quality and sustainable employment, career progression and the promotion of labour market transitions;

Amendment 50

Proposal for a regulation

Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 5 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(5a) ‘European Solidarity Corps’ means the Union initiative providing young people with opportunities to participate in solidarity, volunteering and community engagement activities, both in the Union and beyond, that address societal, environmental or humanitarian challenges, whereby such activities shall be non-profit, voluntary, include a strong learning and civic dimension, and contribute to strengthening solidarity, democracy, citizenship, social cohesion and inclusion, and European values;

Amendment 51

Proposal for a regulation

Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 6

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(6) ‘European Voluntary Humanitarian Aid Corps’ refers to volunteering activities that support post-crisis long-term humanitarian aid and development cooperation operations in third countries not associated to the Programme, that are intended to provide needs-based assistance aimed at preventing and alleviating human suffering, and maintaining durable human dignity in the face of crises, and that include actions that aim to reinforce disaster preparedness and disaster risk reduction, link relief, rehabilitation and development and contribute towards strengthening the resilience and capacity of vulnerable or disaster-affected communities to cope with and recover from crises;(6) ‘European Voluntary Humanitarian Aid Corps’ means the Union initiative providing people with opportunities to volunteering activities that support post-crisis long-term humanitarian aid and development cooperation operations in third countries not associated to the Programme, that are intended to provide needs-based assistance aimed at preventing and alleviating human suffering, and maintaining durable human dignity in the face of crises, and that include actions that aim to reinforce disaster preparedness and disaster risk reduction, link relief, rehabilitation and development and contribute towards strengthening the resilience and capacity of vulnerable or disaster-affected communities to cope with and recover from crises;

Amendment 52

Proposal for a regulation

Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 12

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(12) ‘people with fewer opportunities’ means people who, for economic, social, cultural, geographical or health reasons or due to their migrant background, or for reasons such as disability or educational difficulties or for any other reason, including a reason that could constitute discrimination under Article 21 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, face obstacles that prevent them from having effective access to opportunities under the Programme;(12) ‘people with fewer opportunities’ means eligible participants to the programme who face structural or situational barriers that prevent them from having effective access to opportunities under the Programme, including barriers linked to low income or poverty, residence in rural, remote, outermost regions, and overseas countries and territories, cultural or migrant background, legal refugee status , disability, long-term health issues, homelessness or precarious housing, educational disadvantage, unemployment, gender, ethnic or racial discrimination, or other grounds that could constitute discrimination under Article 21 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union;

Amendment 53

Proposal for a regulation

Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 16

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(16) ‘vocational education and training learner’ means a person enrolled in an initial or continuous vocational education and training programme at any level from secondary to post-secondary level or a person who has recently graduated or obtained a qualification from such a programme;(16) ‘vocational education and training learner’ means a person enrolled in an initial or continuous vocational education and training programme at any level from secondary to post-secondary level aimed at equipping individuals with the knowledge, skills, and competences required for specific occupations or more broadly for the labour market, in order to obtain a professional degree or a person who has recently graduated or obtained a qualification from such a programme, or a person participating in an apprenticeship for young or adult learners or a training for workers and job seekers;

Amendment 54

Proposal for a regulation

Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 17

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(17) ‘volunteering’ means an unpaid activity that addresses societal or humanitarian challenges and has a strong learning component;(17) ‘volunteering’ means an unpaid activity for a period of up to twelve months that addresses societal or humanitarian challenges, contributes to solidarity, strengthening communities and civic participation, and includes a strong learning component,

Amendment 55

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
The general objective of the Programme is to contribute to a resilient, competitive, and cohesive Europe by promoting high quality lifelong learning, enhancing skills and competences for life and for jobs for all, while fostering Union values, democratic and societal participation, solidarity, social inclusion and equal opportunities, in the EU and beyond. The Programme shall be a key instrument for building the Union of Skills, developing the European Education Area and supporting the implementation of European strategic cooperation in the fields of education and training, including its underlying sectoral agendas.The general objective of the Programme is to contribute to a resilient, socially just, sustainable, prosperous, cohesive and competitive Europe by promoting high quality lifelong learning, and personal, education, and professional development by enhancing skills and competences for life, work, and active citizenship for all, while fostering a sense of European identity and values, democratic and societal participation, intercultural dialogue, respect for diversity, solidarity, social inclusion and equal opportunities, in the EU and beyond. The Programme shall promote equivalence, permeability and smooth transitions between different areas of education and training throughout the course of life. While placing a strong emphasis on learning mobility, the Programme shall also be a key instrument for developing the European Education Area, including the Union of Skills, and supporting the implementation of European strategic cooperation in the fields of education and training, including its underlying sectoral agendas. The Programme shall ensure balanced opportunities across all age groups and learning settings, enabling early-childhood, youth, and adult learners to participate in formal, non-formal and informal education and training, and supporting the organisations that serve them. The Programme shall promote competence development and leverage existing learning opportunities across the Union.

Amendment 56

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
The Programme will advance youth policy cooperation and further develop the European dimension in sport. The objective is to foster a more inclusive, united, and robust Europe by empowering young people, strengthening community ties, and promoting solidarity through meaningful engagement and cooperation. Sport plays a vital role as a driver for social inclusion, health, education, and community development. By investing in youth, volunteering, and sport, the Programme aims to build stronger, more connected societies, encourage civic and democratic engagement, and contribute to social cohesion at all levels.The Programme will advance youth policy cooperation and further develop the European dimension in sport. The objective is to foster a more inclusive, united, and robust Europe by empowering young people, strengthening community ties, and promoting active citizenship and solidarity through meaningful engagement and cooperation. Sport plays a vital role as a driver for social inclusion, health, education, and community development. By investing in youth, volunteering, and sport, the Programme aims to build stronger, more connected societies, encourage civic and democratic engagement, and contribute to social cohesion at all levels. All relevant stakeholders implementing the Programme shall safeguard fair, safe and decent working conditions for staff, youth workers, trainers and volunteers involved in Programme-supported activities and shall fully respect labour law, workers’ rights and collective agreements.

Amendment 57

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
The Programme shall ensure civil society cooperation in both its design and implementation. Fostering Union values, promoting equity and inclusion, requires robust support to all organisations facilitating the actions in education, training, youth, and sport, ensuring that the organisational capacity allows support to be provided to all Europeans so that they can benefit from the Programme.

Amendment 58

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) support the improvement of education, skills and competences with particular regard to their relevance for the labour market as well as to the professional development and personal growth of the individual and to their contribution to a competitive, sustainable and cohesive society;(a) support the improvement of education, skills and competences with particular regard to the holistic development of each individual, ensuring personal and professional growth and contributing to a cohesive society, while also supporting employability, entrepreneurship and professional mobility and helping respond to the evolving needs of the European economy, as well as to sustainable growth and competitiveness;

Amendment 59

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point a a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(aa) promote learning mobility as a key instrument for personal and professional development, ensuring broad and access to mobility opportunities for all learners;

Amendment 60

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) foster a sense of European identity and active citizenship, enhance solidarity and active participation in society and democracy, inducing a positive societal impact, greater resilience and better preparedness to anticipate, prevent and respond to risks of different nature;(b) foster a sense of European identity and active citizenship, enhance solidarity and active participation in society and democracy, inducing a positive societal impact, greater resilience and better preparedness to anticipate, prevent and respond to risks of different nature, recognising social cohesion, employment security and reduced inequalities as means to achieve those objectives;

Amendment 61

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point c

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(c) foster quality, inclusion, equity, sustainability, creativity, innovation, excellence and cross-border collaboration, strengthening Europe’s attractiveness and competitiveness globally, across all fields of education and training, youth and sport;(c) foster quality, inclusion, equity, sustainability, creativity, innovation, excellence and cross-border collaboration, strengthening Europe’s global attractiveness , across all fields of education and training, youth and sport;

Amendment 62

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point d

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(d) engage and empower young people to acquire and develop professional and personal competences, to participate actively in society and democracy and connect them to the European project;(d) engage and empower young people to acquire and develop professional and personal competences through formal, non-formal and informal learning, to participate actively in society and democracy and connect them to the European project, while supporting their access to quality and sustainable employment and decent working condition, and while facilitating and supporting the implementation of the EU Youth Strategy, the European Youth Work Agenda and other Union initiatives in the field of youth;

Amendment 63

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point e

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(e) support policy development, including for circulation of skills, accelerating reforms and modernisation at systems' level, across all fields of education and training, youth and sport, ensuring that they are more effective, resilient and inclusive;(e) support policy development and facilitate cross-border collaboration and upscaling initiatives including for strengthening Europe’s lifelong learning area and contribute to excellence in education and training, accelerating reforms and modernisation at systems' level, across all fields of education and training, youth and sport, ensuring that they are more effective, resilient and inclusive;

Amendment 64

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point e a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(ea) boost the validation and recognition of qualifications and prior learning across all learning environments, whether formal, non-formal or informal, while also contributing to the automatic recognition of qualifications and learning periods abroad, provided they meet equivalent quality standards as comparable qualifications acquired within the Union;

Amendment 65

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point f

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(f) provide young people with easily accessible opportunities for engagement in solidarity and humanitarian activities that induce positive societal changes in the Union and beyond (the latter through setting up the European Voluntary Humanitarian Aid Corps), while improving and properly validating their competences, as well as facilitating their continuous engagement as active citizens;(f) provide young people with easily accessible opportunities for engagement in solidarity, volunteering and humanitarian activities that induce positive societal changes in the Union and beyond (the latter through setting up the European Voluntary Humanitarian Aid Corps), while improving and properly validating their competences, including soft skills and competences, as well as facilitating their continuous engagement as active citizens;

Amendment 66

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point g

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(g) promote the European Sport Model by investing in grassroots sport, especially voluntary activities, ensuring accessibility, promoting participation, protecting integrity, supporting good governance, and reinforcing sport’s social, educational, and community role, through actions that focus on building a fair, inclusive, and sustainable sport system across Europe.(g) promote the European Sport Model by investing in grassroots sport, especially voluntary activities, ensuring accessibility, promoting participation, protecting integrity, supporting good governance, and reinforcing sport’s social, educational, and community role, through actions that focus on building a fair, inclusive, and sustainable sport system across Europe, while safeguarding fair, safe and decent working conditions for workers, coaches, trainers, athletes and volunteers in the sport sector;

Amendment 67

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2a. Member States and third countries associated to the programme shall demonstrate that they comply to the rule of law and respect the principles, values and fundamental rights referred to in this Regulation. The Commission shall establish proportionate quality-assurance and monitoring arrangements to verify that institutions and organisations receiving Programme support respect and promote democratic values, human rights and non-discrimination, and shall provide for appropriate follow-up measures in case of failure to comply;

Amendment 68

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 3 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) Capacity building support.(b) Cooperation among organisations and institutions and capacity building support.

Amendment 69

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Article 3a
Target groups and participating organisations
1. The potential target groups and participating organisations of the Programme include:
(a) For projects relevant to the field of higher education: higher education students (short cycle, first, second or third cycle), higher education teachers and professors, staff of higher education institutions, trainers and professionals in enterprises;
(b) For projects relevant to the field of vocational education and training: apprentices and students in vocational education and training, professionals and trainers in vocational education and training, staff of initial vocational education and training organisations, trainers and professionals in enterprises;
(c) For projects relevant to the field of school education: school leaders, school teachers and school staff, pupils in pre-primary, primary and secondary education;
(d) For projects relevant to the field of adult education: members of non-vocational adult education organisations, trainers, staff and learners in non-vocational adult education;
(e) For projects relevant to field of youth: young people, youth workers, staff and members of organisations active in the youth field;
(f) For projects relevant to the field of sport: professionals and volunteers in the field of sport, athletes and coaches;
2. A participating organisation involved in an Erasmus+ project, as either coordinator or partner, can be any organisation which is active in the fields of education, training, youth or sport and established in an EU Member State or third country associated to the Programme.
3. The European Commission may, if necessary, expand the list of potential target groups and participating organisations.

Amendment 70

Proposal for a regulation

Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) Learning mobility of vocational education and training learners and staff;(b) Learning mobility of vocational education and training learners and staff, including apprentices and work-based learning placements;

Amendment 71

Proposal for a regulation

Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point d

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(d) Learning mobility of adult learners and staff in adult learning.(d) Learning mobility of adult learners and staff in formal and non-formal adult learning settings.

Amendment 72

Proposal for a regulation

Article 4 – paragraph 2 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) ‘European Solidarity Corps’ volunteering, including the European Voluntary Humanitarian Aid Corps.(b) ‘European Solidarity Corps’ activities, divided in two strands:
(i) the participation of young people in solidarity activities, including volunteering activities, solidarity projects networking activities, quality and support measures;
(ii) the participation of people in humanitarian-aid-related solidarity activities (the ‘European Voluntary Humanitarian Aid Corps’), including, where relevant, volunteering-related learning and training activities with civil protection and emergency response organisations, such as firefighting, emergency medical and rescue organisations, including in cross-border contexts.
Volunteering might take place either in a country other than the country of residence of the participant or in the country of residence of the participant. Volunteering activities shall ensure full respect for international humanitarian law, human rights and international labour standards, guaranteeing the safety, dignity and appropriate preparation of volunteers, and ensuring that such activities complement, and do not replace, paid humanitarian work, local employment or professional public services in host communities. Volunteering shall not be a substitute for traineeships or jobs, nor equated with employment. It shall be based on a written volunteering agreement and shall be implemented in full respect of labour standards, human dignity and adequate preparation and protection of volunteers, in line with the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union.

Amendment 73

Proposal for a regulation

Article 4 – paragraph 3

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
3. In the field of sport, the Programme shall support learning mobility of athletes and people active in grassroots sport and learning mobility of sport staff.3. In the field of sport, the Programme shall support learning mobility of athletes and people active in grassroots sport and learning mobility of sport staff, while safeguarding the social and non-commercial character of grassroots sport.

Amendment 74

Proposal for a regulation

Article 4 – paragraph 4 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) measures such as language support, preparatory visits, training and virtual cooperation.(b) measures such as language support, preparatory visits, training and virtual cooperation, ensuring accessibility by design.

Amendment 75

Proposal for a regulation

Article 4 – paragraph 4 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
4a. Learning mobility of staff shall include teachers, trainers and other education personnel in all sectors. Member States and participating countries shall ensure that staff mobility is recognised as working time and as part of continuing professional development, and that appropriate replacement, language and accessibility support measures are provided to enable participation.

Amendment 76

Proposal for a regulation

Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) Erasmus+ scholarships in strategic educational fields, including in joint study programmes;(a) Erasmus+ scholarships in strategic educational and training fields, including in joint study programmes and vocational education and training, ensuring that access is based on inclusion and social equity principles;

Amendment 77

Proposal for a regulation

Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) Erasmus Mundus scholarships;(b) Erasmus Mundus scholarships, while promoting fair and circular mobility for participating students and staff;

Amendment 78

Proposal for a regulation

Article 5 – paragraph 1 – point d a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(da) Targeted learning mobility and cooperation schemes for teachers, trainers and other education personnel, including through Erasmus+ Teacher Academies and similar initiatives, as part of their initial and continuing professional development, with appropriate recognition and validation at national level;

Amendment 79

Proposal for a regulation

Chapter II – Section 2 – title

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Capacity building supportCooperation among organisations and institutions and capacity building in Europe

Amendment 80

Proposal for a regulation

Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) Partnerships for cooperation, including small-scale partnerships to foster wider and more inclusive access to the Programme;(a) Partnerships for cooperation, including small-scale partnerships to foster wider and more inclusive access to the Programme with particular attention to grassroots organisations, public institutions and organisations with limited administrative capacity;

Amendment 81

Proposal for a regulation

Article 6 – paragraph 1 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) Partnerships for excellence and innovation, building on the European Universities Alliances, Centres of Vocational Excellence, European Teacher Academies, European School Alliances, Joint study programmes, European Youth Together and Sport Collaborative Alliances.(b) Partnerships for excellence and innovation and exchange of best practices, with continued support to the European Universities Alliances, Centres of Vocational Excellence, European Teacher Academies, Joint study programmes, European Youth Together building on those initiatives to create new ones such as the European Schools Alliances and European Sport Collaborative Alliances, including cooperation projects aimed at promoting vocational excellence, participation in skills competitions, and peer learning among training providers, as well as cooperation with enterprises in the framework of VET excellence initiatives.

Amendment 82

Proposal for a regulation

Article 7 – paragraph 1 – point a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) Experimentation, preparation and implementation of the Union’s policy agendas and tools covering skills, education and training, youth and sport21 ;(a) Experimentation, preparation and implementation of the Union’s policy agendas and tools covering skills, education and training, youth and sport21, including initiatives addressing skills and labour shortages, work-based learning, apprenticeships and mobility pathways, notably in SMEs;
21 In particular: the European Qualifications Framework (EQF); the European Quality Assurance Reference Framework for Vocational Education and Training (EQAVET); the European Quality Assurance Register for Higher Education (EQAR);, the ENIC (European Network of Information Centres in the European Region) and NARIC (National Academic Recognition Information Centres in the European Union) Networks, the Euroguidance network, the common framework and tools for the provision of better services for skills and qualifications (Europass), the Eurydice Network, National Coordinators for Adult Learning, the Central and National Support Services for online platforms, the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) and the National Reference Points on graduate tracking, Youth wiki network, the Eurodesk network, the European Youth Forum, Youthpass, the National Working Groups implementing the EU Youth Dialogue and the National Coordinating Bodies implementing the European Week of Sport at national level.21 In particular: the European Qualifications Framework (EQF); the European Quality Assurance Reference Framework for Vocational Education and Training (EQAVET); the European Quality Assurance Register for Higher Education (EQAR);, the ENIC (European Network of Information Centres in the European Region) and NARIC (National Academic Recognition Information Centres in the European Union) Networks, the Euroguidance network, the common framework and tools for the provision of better services for skills and qualifications (Europass), the Eurydice Network, National Coordinators for Adult Learning, the Central and National Support Services for online platforms, the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) and the National Reference Points on graduate tracking, Youth wiki network, the Eurodesk network, the European Youth Forum, Youthpass, the National Working Groups implementing the EU Youth Dialogue and the National Coordinating Bodies implementing the European Week of Sport at national level.

Amendment 83

Proposal for a regulation

Article 7 – paragraph 1 – point b a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(ba) Policy dialogue in the fields of education and training, youth, sport and volunteering and cooperation with relevant stakeholders, including a diverse range of activities such as conferences and other types of events, support for cooperation with international organisations and support to the functioning of the EU Youth Dialogue, Union-wide networks and European organisations;

Amendment 84

Proposal for a regulation

Article 7 – paragraph 1 – point c

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(c) Dissemination and communication.(c) Dissemination and communication ensuring transparency, accessibility and pluralism.

Amendment 85

Proposal for a regulation

Article 8 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. When implementing this Regulation, the Commission, Member States and third countries associated to the Programme shall ensure an inclusive approach across all activities.1. When implementing this Regulation, the Commission, Member States and third countries associated to the Programme shall ensure an inclusive approach across all activities, including by addressing structural inequalities linked to socio-economic background, disability, gender, migration status, employment situation, territorial disadvantage and other forms of discrimination, and by creating the conditions for participation to not depend on financial capacity.

Amendment 86

Proposal for a regulation

Article 8 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2. The Commission, Member States and third countries associated to the Programme shall take effective measures to promote inclusion, diversity and fairness, solidarity, and equal opportunities, in particular to ensure participation of people with fewer opportunities in the Programme.2. The Commission, Member States and third countries associated to the Programme shall take effective measures to promote inclusion, diversity and fairness, solidarity, to provide equal opportunities, in particular to ensure participation of people with fewer opportunities in the Programme, and to take all appropriate measures to prevent that participation does not, result in financial hardship or in-work poverty.

Amendment 87

Proposal for a regulation

Article 8 – paragraph 3

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
3. The Commission shall support access to the Programme from an early age and independent of socio-economic background. To achieve that, it shall ensure the provision of measures to facilitate the participation of people with fewer opportunities, including financial support mechanisms, where relevant.3. The Commission shall support access to the Programme from an early age and for all target groups and independent of socio-economic background. To achieve that, it shall ensure the provision of measures to facilitate the participation of people with fewer opportunities. Those measures shall include, among others, financial support and pre-financing mechanisms, adequate coverage of mobility costs, housing support, preparatory activities, and compensation for additional costs linked to disability or socio-economic disadvantage, in order to facilitate, in particular, the participation of people with fewer opportunities whose participation is impeded for financial reasons. Those measures shall also include digital-by default processes, including electronic signatures and streamlined and accessible documentation requirements, as well as clear and consistent workflows, in order to reduce disproportionate administrative requirements for participants. This benefits also SMEs, VET providers and intermediaries supporting mobility.

Amendment 88

Proposal for a regulation

Article 8 – paragraph 4

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
4. The Commission may adjust or may authorise the national agencies referred to in Article 19 to adjust, on the basis of objective criteria, the financial support mechanisms to improve access to people with fewer opportunities.4. The Commission may adjust or may authorise the national agencies referred to in Article 19 to adjust, on the basis of objective criteria, the financial support mechanisms to improve access to people with fewer opportunities, while ensuring adequate coverage of additional mobility costs faced by beneficiaries, from and to, remote, insular, mountainous, underserved and outermost regions as well as the overseas countries and territories associated with the Union.

Amendment 89

Proposal for a regulation

Article 8 – paragraph 4 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
4a. The Commission shall ensure that the Programme contributes to lifelong learning by providing mobility opportunities to learners later in their life.

Amendment 90

Proposal for a regulation

Article 8 – paragraph 5

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
5. The costs of measures to facilitate or support the participation of people with fewer opportunities shall not justify the rejection of an application under the Programme.5. The costs of measures to facilitate or support the participation of people with fewer opportunities shall not justify the rejection of an application under the Programme, nor shall they negatively affect the quality assessment or ranking of the application.

Amendment 91

Proposal for a regulation

Article 8 – paragraph 7

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
7. The Commission shall monitor on a regular basis the implementation of the inclusion and diversity measures, including the national inclusion and diversity plans.7. The Commission shall monitor on a regular basis the implementation of the inclusion and diversity measures, including the national inclusion and diversity plans, including through indicators related to social impact, equal access, employment quality.

Amendment 92

Proposal for a regulation

Article 9 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. The indicative financial envelope for the implementation of the Programme for the period 2028-2034 is set at EUR 40 827 000 000 in current prices.1. The indicative financial envelope for the implementation of the Programme for the period 2028-2034 is set at EUR 47.39 billion in current prices.

Amendment 93

Proposal for a regulation

Article 9 – paragraph 1 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1a. The indicative distribution of the amount set out in paragraph 1 shall be:
(a) EUR XXX, representing X % of the amount set out in paragraph 1 of this Article, to actions in the field of education and training, including VET, higher education, school education, early childhood education and care and adult education;
(b) EUR XXX, representing X % of the amount set out in paragraph 1 of this Article, to actions in the field of youth;
(c) X% sports.

Amendment 94

Proposal for a regulation

Article 9 – paragraph 1 b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1b. At least 20 % of the total financial envelope shall be allocated to support the participation of people with fewer opportunities, including through targeted financial support, adapted funding mechanisms and inclusive implementation measures.

Amendment 95

Proposal for a regulation

Article 9 – paragraph 1 c (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1c. The Commission shall ensure full transparency on annual commitments and payments per strand referred to in paragraph 1a and shall present this information in the annual reporting and performance information relating to the Programme.

Amendment 96

Proposal for a regulation

Article 11 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. The Programme shall be implemented in synergy with other Union programmes. An action that has received a Union contribution from another programme may also receive a contribution under the Programme. The rules of the relevant Union programme shall apply to the corresponding contribution, or a single set of rules may be applied to all contributions and a single legal commitment may be concluded. If the Union contribution is based on eligible costs, the cumulative support from the Union budget shall not exceed the total eligible costs of the action and may be calculated on a pro-rata basis in accordance with the documents setting out the conditions for support.1. The Programme shall be implemented in synergy with other Union programmes. An action that has received a Union contribution from another programme may also receive a contribution under the Programme. The rules of the relevant Union programme shall apply to the corresponding contribution, or a single set of rules may be applied to all contributions and a single legal commitment may be concluded. If the Union contribution is based on eligible costs, the cumulative support from the Union budget shall not exceed the total eligible costs of the action and may be calculated on a pro-rata basis in accordance with the documents setting out the conditions for support, while ensuring transparency, equal treatment of applicants and preventing disproportionate concentration of funding in large or structurally advantaged organisations.

Amendment 97

Proposal for a regulation

Article 12 – paragraph 2 – point c

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(c) performance, calculated based on the most recent data available.(c) performance, calculated based on the most recent data available, while ensuring that allocation criteria do not reinforce structural disparities between Member States and regions by promoting mobility opportunities coupled with upward social convergence and that particular consideration is given to socio-economic challenges, regional inequalities and the need for upward social convergence.

Amendment 98

Proposal for a regulation

Article 14 – paragraph 2 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2a. Entities participating in the Programme shall comply with applicable labour, social and anti-discrimination legislation, and shall not be subject to final decisions establishing serious breaches of labour standards or social standards.

Amendment 99

Proposal for a regulation

Article 15 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
The Programme shall be implemented by work programmes referred to in Article 110 Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509.The Programme shall be implemented by work programmes referred to in Article 110 Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509. The work programmes shall give an indication of the amount allocated to each action and the distribution of funds between Member States and third country associated to the Programme for the actions to be managed by the national agency, as well as explicit budget attributions.

Amendment 100

Proposal for a regulation

Article 16 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. In cooperation with the Commission, the national agencies referred to in Article 19 shall develop a consistent communication strategy with regard to effective outreach and to the dissemination and exploitation of the results of activities supported under the actions they manage within the Programme. The national authorities referred to in Article 18 shall support the national agencies in exploiting the results of projects with high potential for impact.1. In cooperation with the Commission, the national agencies referred to in Article 19 shall develop a consistent communication strategy with regard to effective outreach and to the dissemination and exploitation of the results of activities supported under the actions they manage within the Programme. In addition to informing the general public priority shall be given to reaching people with fewer opportunities, about the wide array of activities that can be supported by the Programme beyond the learning mobility of higher education students. The national authorities referred to in Article 18 shall support the national agencies in exploiting the results of projects with high potential for impact, and shall l work in partnership with participants and beneficiaries and multiplier networks to adapt the dissemination to the specific context.

Amendment 101

Proposal for a regulation

Article 16 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2. The national agencies referred to in Article 19 shall assist the Commission in its general task of disseminating information concerning the Programme, including information in respect of actions and activities managed at national and Union level, and its results. National agencies shall inform relevant target groups about the actions and activities undertaken in their respective countries.2. The national agencies referred to in Article 19 shall assist the Commission in its general task of disseminating information concerning the Programme, including information in respect of actions and activities managed at national and Union level, and its results. National agencies shall inform relevant target groups about the actions and activities undertaken in their respective countries. Career guidance services, training institutions, employment services and other relevant stakeholders shall actively inform about the programme.

Amendment 102

Proposal for a regulation

Article 16 – paragraph 2 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2a. The information of the Programme shall be provided in all official languages of the European Union.

Amendment 103

Proposal for a regulation

Article 18 – paragraph 2 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2a. A Member State or a third country associated to the Programme may designate more than one national agency, in particular to reflect constitutional, federal or regional structures, or to ensure effective delivery of the Programme across linguistically or culturally diverse territories. Where a Member State or a third country associated to the Programme designates more than one national agency, the national authority shall ensure overall coordination, consistency of implementation, and a single coherent framework for supervision and assurance vis-à-vis the Commission, including by setting up appropriate coordination arrangements among the national agencies.

Amendment 104

Proposal for a regulation

Article 18 – paragraph 8 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
8a. In order to ensure broad social participation, the national authority shall, through a structured dialogue, regularly consult and cooperate with social partners and other stakeholders active in the fields relevant to this Directive, including inter alia education and training institutions, youth and student organisations, SMEs hosting VET learners, as well as relevant local and regional authorities.

Amendment 105

Proposal for a regulation

Article 19 – paragraph 1 – point e a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(ea) demonstrate capacity to ensure transparent and socially equitable grant allocation, including targeted outreach, support for participants with fewer opportunity, accessible procedures, non-discrimination and support for small-scale, grassroots and non-profit organisations.

Amendment 106

Proposal for a regulation

Article 19 – paragraph 7 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
7a. The national agency shall be closely involved in the structured dialogue referred to in article 18.

Amendment 107

Proposal for a regulation

Article 22 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2. The national agency shall be responsible for the primary controls of grant beneficiaries for the actions it manages as set out in the work programmes referred to in Article 15. Those controls shall give reasonable assurance that the grants awarded are used as intended and in compliance with the applicable Union rules.2. The national agency shall be responsible for the primary controls of grant beneficiaries for the actions it manages as set out in the work programmes referred to in Article 15. Those controls shall give reasonable assurance that the grants awarded are used as intended and in compliance with the applicable Union rules. Controls shall be risk-based and proportionate, and shall not create barriers for organisations with smaller administrative capacity or participants with fewer opportunities through excessive administrative requirements. The national authority shall be responsible for equal access, transparency, non-discrimination and the effective implementation of inclusion measures in the allocation and management of Union funds, including the prevention of conflicts of interest and undue influence.
Annex: declaration of input 4 paragraphs

Pursuant to Article 8 of Annex I to the Rules of Procedure, the rapporteur for opinion declares that she included in her opinion input on matters pertaining to the subject of the file that she received, in the preparation of the opinion, prior to the adoption thereof in committee, from the following interest representatives falling within the scope of the Interinstitutional Agreement on a mandatory transparency register, or from the following representatives of public authorities of third countries, including their diplomatic missions and embassies:

1. Interest representatives falling within the scope of the Interinstitutional Agreement on a mandatory transparency register
Life Long Learning Platform
Youth Forum
Bundesvereinigung der Deutschen Arbeitgeberverbände
Erasmus Students Network
Unimed
European Olympic Committee
European Council of Young Farmers
2. Representatives of public authorities of third countries, including their diplomatic missions and embassies
None

The list above is drawn up under the exclusive responsibility of the rapporteur for opinion.

Where natural persons are identified in the list by their name, by their function or by both, the rapporteur for opinion declares that she has submitted to the natural persons concerned the European Parliament's Data Protection Notice No 484 (https://www.europarl.europa.eu/data-protect/index.do), which sets out the conditions applicable to the processing of their personal data and the rights linked to that processing.

Procedure pages

How the committees handled the text, and how their members voted on it.

Procedure – committee asked for opinion 1 paragraph
TitleEstablishing the Erasmus+ programme for the period 2028-2034, and repealing Regulations (EU) 2021/817 and (EU) 2021/888
ReferencesCOM(2025)0549 – C10-0170/2025 – 2025/0222(COD)
Committee(s) responsible Date announced in plenaryCULT 23.10.2025
Opinion by Date announced in plenaryEMPL 23.10.2025
Rapporteur for opinion Date appointedNela Riehl 9.12.2025
Discussed in committee17.3.2026
Date adopted6.5.2026
Result of final vote+: –: 0:41 1 11
Final vote by roll call by the committee asked for opinion 3 paragraphs

41 · For

ECR
Chiara Gemma, Georgiana Teodorescu
No group
Jan-Peter Warnke
EPP
Maravillas Abadía Jover, Pascal Arimont, Andrzej Buła, David Casa, Salvatore De Meo, Loucas Fourlas, Niels Geuking, Sérgio Humberto, Martine Kemp, Jagna Marczułajtis-Walczak, Dennis Radtke, Liesbet Sommen, Axel Voss, Angelika Winzig
Renew
Grégory Allione, Valérie Devaux, Elisabetta Gualmini, Michael McNamara, Hristo Petrov
S&D
Gabriele Bischoff, Vilija Blinkevičiūtė, Estelle Ceulemans, Johan Danielsson, Isilda Gomes, Alicia Homs Ginel, Marit Maij, Idoia Mendia, Aodhán Ó Ríordáin, Birgit Sippel, Marianne Vind
The Left
Li Andersson, Leila Chaibi, Rudi Kennes, João Oliveira
Greens
Katrin Langensiepen, Maria Ohisalo, Nela Riehl, Benedetta Scuderi

1 · Against

Patriots
Margarita de la Pisa Carrión

11 · Abstained

ECR
Elena Donazzan, Francesco Torselli, Mariateresa Vivaldini, Kosma Złotowski
ESN
Petar Volgin
EPP
Miriam Lexmann, Romana Tomc
Patriots
Mélanie Disdier, Angéline Furet, Pál Szekeres, Séverine Werbrouck