The JER does cite certain areas where progress has been made as well as areas where it has been limited or insufficient. It looks at gaps and weaknesses as well as the differences from country to country.
This year, the report highlights the strong employment expansion which has taken place over the last year. It also points to the encouraging trend that about half of the Member States have developed or are developing comprehensive flexicurity approaches.
Finally the report addresses the lack of progress within youth unemployment and investment in training.
The JER is the employment analysis and reporting part of the Jobs and Growth strategy. As it is jointly adopted by the Commission and Member States, it is an important step in delivering the Lisbon objectives.