Programme description
Since joining the European Union, Małopolska has experienced significant economic growth, with its GDP per capita rising from 46% of the EU average in 2004 to 69% in 2020. The region boasts a high employment rate and lower-than-average rates of youth not in employment, education, or training (NEET), as well as at risk of poverty and social exclusion (AROPE). However, one pressing issue is the high gender employment gap in the region, necessitating measures to ensure equal opportunities for women in the labor market. Małopolska faces demographic challenges, with a growing population of post-working age individuals, highlighting the importance of adaptability and active aging programs.
The primary aim of the program is to strengthen and leverage the region's economic and social potential for integrated, sustainable, and intelligent development. This includes ensuring a high quality of life and security for its residents and addressing the just transition in the Western Małopolska subregion. The program outlines 11 priorities across 5 Policy Objectives, aligning with the EU legislative package and the Just Transition Fund.
Under Policy Objective 1 (PO1), efforts are directed toward boosting research and development, innovation, and digitalization in the public sector and SMEs, along with skills development. Policy Objective 2 (PO2) focuses on environmental and climate initiatives, including water management, biodiversity protection, and renewable energy adoption. Policy Objective 3 (PO3) aims to enhance mobility by improving public transport, road safety, and infrastructure for zero-emission vehicles.
Policy Objective 4 (PO4) targets inclusive education, childcare, vocational training, and social and health services. It also emphasizes support for women in the labor market, gender equality, and work-life balance. The program is committed to promoting inclusive education for individuals with disabilities, enhancing language competences, and leveraging cultural and training infrastructure. Additionally, support will be provided to migrants and the Roma minority.
The program allocates significant funds to various initiatives, including the European Youth Guarantee, gender equality, and skills development. It also addresses adaptation and restructuring difficulties in certain areas and supports the transition to a green, smart, and digital economy, with a focus on energy efficiency, renewable energy, and environmental remediation. Sustainable urban development and financial instruments are key components, contributing to EU priorities like green growth, digitalization, and innovation.
The program identifies eight projects of strategic importance, including the expansion of a regional cycling network, knowledge transfer centers for innovation, and a Telecare Centre for dependent residents. However, Poland acknowledges shortcomings in fulfilling certain enabling conditions related to fundamental rights, transport planning, social inclusion, and healthcare policy frameworks.
Financial information
Breakdown of finances by priority axis
| Priority Axis | EU Investment | National Public Contribution | Total Public Contribution |
|---|---|---|---|
| ERDF | 1.738.609.486,00 | 306.813.450,00 | 2.045.422.936,00 |
| ESF+ | 687.130.160,00 | 121.258.268,00 | 808.388.428,00 |
| JTF | 264.558.697,00 | 46.686.832,00 | 311.245.529,00 |
| Total | 2.690.298.343,00 | 474.758.550,00 | 3.165.056.893,00 |
Priorities and Specific Objectives
Social Europe
Access to employment and activation measures for all
Intergration of marginalised communities such as Roma
Equal access to quality social and healthcare services
Social integration of people at risk
Gender balanced labour market participation
Adaptation of workers and enterprises to change
Quality and inclusive education and training systems
Lifelong learning and career transitions
Active inclusion and employability
Integration of third country nationals
JTF specific objective
Just Transition Fund
Smarter Europe
Enhancing research and innovation
Reaping the benefits of digitisation
Growth and competitiveness of SMEs
Greener Europe
Energy efficiency
Renewable energy
Climate change adaptation
Sustainable water
Circular economy
Nature protection and biodiversity
Sustainable urban mobility
Connected Europe
Sustainable transport
Social Europe
Education and training infrastructure
Integration of marginalised communities
Access to health care
Culture and sustainable tourism
Europe closer to citizens
Integrated development in urban areas
Integrated development in rural and coastal areas