About the Programme
Exchanging good practice and experience is one of the core objectives of the European Employment Strategy. As acknowledged by the Member States, better use should be made of the many examples of good practice that exist. In relation to the three priority areas of the renewed Lisbon Strategy for Growth and Jobs (2008-2010), these priority areas are as follows:
- Attract and retain more people in employment, increase labour supply and modernise social protection systems.
- Improve the adaptability of workers and enterprises.
- Increase investment in human capital through better education and skills.
The Mutual Learning Programme helps the Member States to learn from each others' experiences and enhances the transferability of good practice. While sharing common objectives and targets, Member States nevertheless take different policy approaches and choices. A deeper understanding of the conditions for successful policy implementation with proven results is sought through conducting evidence-based reviews of good practice in other Member States. This facilitates the assessment of whether and how good practices can be effectively transferred to other Member States. The Mutual Learning Programme focuses on specific relevant labour market themes which are treated in the framework of three strands of activities:
- Twice-yearly EU-wide 'Thematic Review Seminars' on key challenges or policy priorities
- 'Peer Review' in individual Member States, focusing on specific policies and measures within the broad policy priority
- 'Follow-up and Dissemination Activities' to involve a broader group of national stakeholders and further the co-operation and exchange of good practices between Member States
