Government Education Expenditure in the European Union during the Economic Crisis (2008-2011)

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Investment in education and training is essential for sustained economic growth and competitiveness in Europe. Acquiring the right skills is key to increase employment and productivity. Europe needs well-educated and highly-skilled staff in order to drive innovation and R&D. A forward-looking and pro-active management of skills supply can help shape the future labour market and support Europe's Strategy on smart, sustainable and inclusive growth ('Europe 2020'). The crucial role of education, training and skills as drivers for growth and jobs was set out in Commission Communication 'Rethinking Education: Investing in skills for better socio-economic outcomes' of November 2012. Against the background of tight public budgets, the Commission has repeatedly called on Member States not to cut the spending for growth-friendly policies, such as education.