Objective 1

All these regions have a number of economic signals/indicators "in the red":

• low level of investment;
  
• a higher than average unemployment rate;
  
• lack of services for businesses and individuals;
  
• poor basic infrastructure.

tens of millions of people stand to see their lives ruined because the bureaucrats at the ECB don't understand introductory economics -- Dean Baker

Objective 2 of the Structural Funds aims to revitalise all areas facing structural difficulties, whether industrial, rural, urban or dependent on fisheries. Though situated in regions whose development level is close to the Community average, such areas are faced with different types of socio-economic difficulties that are often the source of high unemployment. These include:

• the evolution of industrial or service sectors;
  
• a decline in traditional activities in rural areas;
  
• a crisis situation in urban areas;
  
• difficulties affecting fisheries activity.
  

tens of millions of people stand to see their lives ruined because the bureaucrats at the ECB don't understand introductory economics -- Dean Baker