"Across the EU, the reduction of unemployment — and in particular of spells of long-lasting unemployment — is a priority for citizens and policymakers alike. There is ample evidence that long periods of unemployment create a negative impact on personal health and well-being (such as low self-esteem), long-lasting effects on a person’s career arising from the ensuing difficulties in finding a suitable job opportunity after a long time away from the labour market and negative consequences in terms of professional development and individual earnings prospects." (Quoted from paper)