A recently-finalised Ex Post Evaluation of Cohesion Policy interventions in 2007 – 2013 has shown the extent to which EU investments have helped create jobs and growth over the past seven years. The evaluation, carried out by independent experts, focused on the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the Cohesion Fund.

The 2007-2013 period has been one of crisis and a shrinking labour market. Cohesion Policy managed to halt this trend: the investments implemented during that period created nearly one million jobs, corresponding to one third of all net job creation across the EU. Moreover, 400,000 SMEs were supported to modernise and invest in research and innovation, further consolidating the job market. According to the evaluation, every Euro invested during 2007 – 2013 will generate 2.74 Euro of additional GDP - or nearly one trillion Euro - by 2023, thus showing the real added value of Cohesion Policy. What is more important is that each and every Member State gained from the policy.

A range of publications have been produced which provide additional information with respect to the specific benefits created by Cohesion Policy in each Member State. Here you will find factsheets, infographics and a PowerPoint presentation, in the languages of each respective Member State. (http://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/en/policy/evaluations/ec/2007-2013/).

The policy will continue to show its added value during the 2014-2020 period, by supporting two million enterprises so as to increase their competitiveness, develop products, find new markets and create new jobs. More than 40 million people are expected to benefit from improved health services and over 7,500 km railway lines to be constructed or upgraded.  Cohesion Policy will continue to contribute towards the EU's goals of growth and jobs, in line with the Commission's priorities for the future.