Tackling Unemployment in the EU through Social Inclusion and Training Programmes23 February 2010

Event overview

One of the European Commission's main stated aims is to develop a competitive and world-class workforce - this requires effective training and the development of demand and market driven skills and mechanisms. However, a key barrier to tackling unemployment and promoting employability is the high levels of social exclusion of various groups within society from education, skills training and, inevitably, the labour market. According to the latest EU statistics, 16% of European citizens were at high risk of poverty in 2006. Despite some progress over the years in labour markets, 9.3% of working age adults still live in jobless households and 8% of the employed live below the poverty line. The employment rate of older workers reached 45% in 2007 against 37% in 2001. More recently, with the globalised world stranded in a financial crisis, workers as well as enterprises are facing mutual challenges and changes in working patterns.

There are root causes which can be identified and tackled through long term employment strategies, social cohesion and more effective training systems at national and local levels. These processes could lead to an increase in employability across Europe but requires the engagement of all governance structures and stakeholders at regional, national and local levels in Europe.

This special International Symposium provides a timely opportunity for stakeholders across the EU to discuss the root causes behind current unemployment trends, exchange best practices and consider mechanisms for overcoming existing employment gaps in the labour market. The Symposium will also facilitate mind mapping for comprehensive EU and national action plans for promoting social inclusion, better access to education and training and examine their contribution towards building a sustainable lifestyle model for European Citizens.

The Centre for Parliamentary Studies welcomes the participation of all key partners, responsible authorities and stakeholders. The Symposium will support the exchange of ideas and encourage delegates to engage in thought-provoking topical debate.