Eesmärkimaks

Eesmärkimaks, also known as the European Economic and Social Fund (EESF), is a European Union (EU) funding instrument aimed at promoting economic and social cohesion within the EU. It is one of the key funds under the European Structural and Investment Funds (ESIF) framework, which also includes the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the Cohesion Fund.

The primary objective of the EESF is to support the development of human resources and the modernization of the economy in the less developed regions of the EU. This is achieved through various measures such as vocational training, education, research and development, and support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

The EESF operates on a competitive basis, with funding allocated to projects that have been selected through a competitive process. The funds are disbursed to the Member States, which then implement the projects in cooperation with the European Commission and other relevant bodies.

The EESF is financed through the EU budget and is subject to the same financial rules and procedures as other EU funds. It is designed to be flexible and adaptable, allowing for the funding of a wide range of projects that can help to reduce regional disparities and promote sustainable development.

The EESF has been a significant factor in the economic and social development of many EU regions, contributing to job creation, skills development, and innovation. It plays a crucial role in the EU's strategy to achieve a more competitive and sustainable economy, as outlined in the Europe 2020 strategy.