The European Commission on Monday presented the 2030 Strategy of EURES, the European network of employment services, in an announcement aimed at adapting its services to the changes affecting labour markets across Europe.
Why the strategy is being introduced
According to the announcement, digital developments, the green transition and the ageing of the population are reshaping labour markets throughout Europe. In response, EURES developed the 2030 Strategy so that it can continue to provide services to workers and employers and strengthen its role in supporting fair labour mobility. The strategy focuses on objectives concerning both workers and employers, as well as the operation of a more interconnected labour market in Europe.
What it means for workers
For those looking for work, the Commission says EURES aims to act as a reliable partner regardless of a jobseeker's background. Through improved, data-driven matching of skills and vacancies, and clear, multilingual information, the network is intended to help jobseekers identify opportunities that correspond to their skills and career goals.
The announcement adds that EURES also promotes fair working conditions and seeks to improve its services continually by drawing on user feedback. For workers considering moving to another region or country, access to up-to-date labour market information is intended to help them head towards areas where their skills are most needed, with respect for national systems and local particularities.
What it means for employers
For employers, the 2030 Strategy provides for a strengthened role for EURES as a partner in fair recruitment processes. The Commission notes that, through closer cooperation with employers and by taking their needs into account, the network aims to ensure its services remain practical and useful.
Improved skills matching is expected to contribute to more effective recruitment, while guidance on lawful and fair recruitment practices is intended to strengthen transparency and trust. Cooperation with sectoral organisations and chambers is intended to provide further targeted support to employers.
How the network operates
EURES connects people, jobs and labour markets, supporting fair recruitment and worker mobility across Europe. Its services are provided through a network of members and partners in 31 countries. The network includes the EURES Portal, which provides access to available vacancies, candidate profiles and information, and the European Job Daysplatform, which facilitates contact between employers and candidates.
What the strategy changes
According to the announcement, the 2030 Strategy builds on this basis and introduces a stronger emphasis on services that are more oriented to users' needs and more personalised for workers and employers. It also provides for the further development of a more advanced digital ecosystem to improve the matching of skills and jobs, as well as greater emphasis on delivering high-quality services consistently across all countries.
The strategy further includes broadening outreach to vulnerable groups, with the aim of improving their access to the services and opportunities offered by EURES, as well as strengthening cooperation between the European and national levels.
