These guidelines focus on individuals who have lost or are in danger of losing their jobs as a result of economic factors, the evolution of technological processes, the relocation of production units or any other cause except illness or injury. The latter is covered in the ISSA Guidelines on Return to Work and Reintegration. These guidelines are also directed at young jobseekers who do not find work immediately after the completion of their studies. Special attention is given to the more marginalized and vulnerable populations, such as the long-term unemployed, low-skilled workers, the disabled, migrants and foreign workers.

In view of the range of institutions involved, the term “competent institutions” is used in the following guidelines to designate the institutions that have one or several public service roles in the provision of benefits, employment or training. When both the board and the management are involved, the term “institution” is used.