The programme evaluation addressed issues of large systems learning, and transferability of learning across 25 member states’ policy and practice actors in relation to multi-dimensional aspects of social exclusion through six instruments or actions.
In addition the evaluation considered the extent to which the delivery of the programme supported this learning and what else could be done to strengthen learning and knowledge management in relation to social exclusion across the EU. Programme delivery was seen as a vehicle for learning between Member States and different levels of actors.
Methodology
The evaluation developed a typology of learning, through awareness raising, knowledge sharing and the generation of new knowledge, to embedding in policy and practice. A wide range of learning occurred through this programme, of different kinds, at different levels and on a wide range of topics. Examples of increased programme learning include more programme focus and stronger linkages between different programme actions, for example participation in different actions on the same or related topics, a recommendation for the follow-on programme, PROGRESS. Programme impact in some member states was increased through linkages developed by national policy and practice actors.Impact
Programme actions included EU SILC, a survey of living and working conditions across 24 of the 25 member states; thematic and other studies; a programme of peer review for member states policy actors and others; a programme of transnational exchange projects; reports from non-governmental experts relating to member states National Action plans; activities of European (Key) Networks; and Round Table events, in co-operation with the presidency.This programme was intended to facilitate the EU Open Method of Co-ordination for its social inclusion policy and process including: the Common Objectives, Common Indicators, National Action Plans, and EU Joint Reports on Social Inclusion through the following objectives:- Improving the understanding of social exclusion and poverty with the help in particular of comparable indicators;
- Organizing exchanges on policies being implemented and promoting mutual learning, inter alia in the context of National Action Plans with the help in particular of comparable indicators;
- Developing the capacity of actors to address social exclusion and poverty effectively, and to promote innovative approaches, in particular through networking at European level, and by promoting dialogue with all those involved, including at national and regional levels.