Inclusion for all: the Commission Presents an Action Plan for Integration and Inclusion for the Period 2021-2027

The Commission presents the Action Plan for Integration and Inclusion for the Period 2021-2027. The Action Plan promotes the inclusion of all, recognizing the significant contribution of migrants to the EU and addressing the barriers that can hinder the participation and integration of people with migrant backgrounds, from newcomers to citizens, in European society. It is based on the principle that inclusive integration requires efforts from both the individual and the host community and defines new actions that build on the achievements of the previous 2016 Action Plan.
The Action Plan proposes targeted and tailored support that takes into account individual characteristics which may create specific challenges for people with migrant backgrounds, such as gender or religious background. Successful integration and inclusion depend on both timely action and long-term commitment.
While national governments are primarily responsible for developing and implementing social policies, the EU plays a crucial role in supporting member states through funding, developing guidelines, and promoting relevant partnerships. The main actions are as follows: Inclusive education and training, improving employment opportunities and skills recognition, promoting access to health services, access to adequate and affordable housing.
The action plan will be implemented by mobilizing EU funding and by creating partnerships with all stakeholders: migrants, host communities, social and economic partners, civil society, local and regional authorities, and private sector entities. It will empower host communities and support their role in designing and implementing integration measures and programs, while emphasizing the responsibility of those concerned to participate in the host society. It will seek to modernize access to services using digital tools. Finally, it will improve the evidence base to contribute to further policy development and ensure proper monitoring of results.
The Action Plan for Integration and Inclusion complements existing and upcoming EU strategies for promoting equality and social cohesion, in order to ensure full inclusion and the ability to participate in European societies. It will be implemented with the upcoming Action Plan for implementing the European Pillar of Social Rights and with the EU Action Plan Against Racism. It will also be closely linked to the EU Strategic Framework for Roma Equality, Inclusion and Participation, the Gender Equality Strategy 2020-2025, the LGBTQI Equality Strategy 2020-2025, the upcoming