Long-term unemployment (LTU) is a pressing problem, with serious consequences for those concerned and society as a whole. Although the current employment recovery contributed to a modest decrease, in 2016 almost 10 million people in the European Union (EU) were still long-term unemployed. Since the economic crisis, it has become harder to escape from LTU. Recovery alone cannot reverse this. Skill deficits and mismatches--linked to lacking skill development opportunities--make the long-unemployed less attractive job candidates for potential employers. Engaging the long-term unemployed and providing vocational training lies at the heart of activation practice. Critical success factors include tailoring training content and provision to the skill gaps of job seekers and to employer needs. At Cedefop's policy learning forum, "Vocational Training for the Long-Term Unemployed: Learning from Inspiring Practices" (Thessaloniki, 15 and 16 June 2017), practitioners and experts from across Europe shared practices and experiences. This report blends the case studies they presented, annexed as summaries to this report, with Cedefop's earlier work and other evidence. Forum participants also discussed what they see as promising areas for further development. The result is an overview of innovative approaches, principles, methods and tools at the different stages of activation. Five sections are: (1) Recent trends in long-term unemployment and integration challenges; (2) Engaging the long-term unemployed; (3) Identifying suitable interventions; (4) Making matching more sustainable; and (5) Ideas for ways forward.