Issue 118
June 2023
ISSN 2315-0017
Spotlight on the European Year of Skills
The need for a rapid shift towards a climate neutral Europe along with Europe’s digital transformation is having a direct impact on the way we work, learn, take part in society, and lead our everyday lives. Europe can only address the enormous challenges of this twin transition and seize the emerging opportunities related to it if its people develop the right skills. That is why the EU places skill development at the top of its priorities, and brings it into focus with the launch of the European Year of Skills
The European Year of Skills, which was launched on 9 May 2023, is a 12-month initiative aiming to assist people in acquiring the right skills for quality jobs and to help businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises, to address their skills needs. The initiative is directly related to the EU Skills Agenda, a five-year plan that seeks to develop more and better skills for the benefit of individuals and businesses in the European Union, and to support Europe’s green and digital transition.
Throughout the European Year of Skills, various stakeholders will collaborate to promote skills development, including the European Commission, the European Parliament, Member States, social partners, public and private employment services, chambers of commerce and industry, education and training providers, workers, and businesses. This collaborative effort encompasses digital skills, entrepreneurial skills, and transversal skills that are essential for the 21st-century. Across Europe, nearly 600 skill-related activities and events will take place. You can explore the interactive map on the European Year of Skills website to find activities and events close to you.
In this edition of our newsletter, we present a selection of EU publications on skills development, along with publications on other important topics, such as the stability of the banking sector, projects to help foster energy efficiency, and technology-enabled law enforcement.
Skills shortages and structural changes in the labour market during COVID 19 and in the context of the digital and green transitions PDF
Thematic review 2023: synthesis report
This study examines skills shortages in the EU Member States as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic in the face of digitalisation and the green transition. Using wage premiums and vacancy data, it identifies sectors and occupations experiencing shortages. Digitalisation is found to be a significant driver of skills shortages, with an ageing population and education mismatches contributing to the phenomenon. The publication highlights policy responses and employer practices to address skills shortages. It emphasises the importance of developing digital and green skills.
Available in English
Green deal industrial plan PDF
Plugging the skills gap
As Europe moves towards a greener future, up to 40% of workers are involved in the green transition, with potential for 1 million additional jobs by 2030. This publication outlines labour shortages, training investments, and sector-specific initiatives, such as apprenticeships and vocational excellence centres. Explore upcoming actions, including Net-Zero Industry Academies and the New European Bauhaus Academy, supporting the development of crucial skills for the green transition.
Available in English
Strengthening skills systems in times of transition PDF
Insights from Cedefop’s 2022 European skills index
Skills lie at the core of well-functioning economies and inclusive societies. Skills systems support and shape transitions and play a crucial role in developing skills, in using talent and in matching skills to jobs. This policy brief uses the 2022 European skills index developed by the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (Cedefop) to take stock of trends, to identify potential for improvement and to locate best practices.
Available in English
Setting Europe on course for a human digital transition PDF
New evidence from Cedefop’s second European skills and jobs survey
This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the impact of digitalisation on European jobs and workers. It emphasises that the digital transition is primarily a skills transition, and seeks to debunk fears of widespread job destruction. Furthermore, the publication highlights the importance of innovative approaches to skills utilisation, job redesign, and work organisation in maximising the benefits of digitalisation.
Available in English
Entrepreneurial literacy and skills PDF
This research paper delves into the significance of entrepreneurship for societal well-being and the transition towards sustainable economic growth. It explores the concept of entrepreneurial literacy and skills as crucial competences for fostering equal opportunities, resilience, and innovative problem-solving. Examining empirical indicators and drawing on academic literature, the publication highlights disparities among EU Member States and identifies challenges faced by underrepresented groups. It concludes with recommendations for future policy actions in the context of the ongoing green and digital transitions.
Available in English
The EU legal migration package PDF
Towards a rights-based approach to attracting skills and talent to the EU
This publication examines the European Commission's proposals for improving legal migration in the EU. It highlights the need for a clear and sustainable rights-based migration policy, coherence within the policy and with other fields of EU law. By doing so, it offers valuable insights into the ongoing debate about skills and talent in the EU.
Available in English
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The EU blue economy report 2023 PDF
This annual report offers a comprehensive analysis of sustainable development in oceans and coastal resources to inform decision-making and investment strategies in the blue economy. It examines established sectors like marine resources, renewable energy, and port activities, as well as emerging sectors such as blue biotechnology and ocean energy. Moreover, it delves into the impacts of geopolitical events, energy transition, and climate change on coastal areas.
Available in English
Regional impact of climate change on European tourism demand PDF
Analysing data from 269 European regions over a 20-year period, this comprehensive study examines the regional impact of climate change on European tourism demand and simulates the future effect. Findings reveal a north-south pattern, with northern regions benefiting from climate change while southern regions experience significant reductions in tourism demand. This publication helps to gain insights into the changing seasonality patterns and understand the implications for sustainable tourism strategies. A valuable resource for policymakers and stakeholders in the tourism industry.
Available in English
Combatting the illegal killing, taking of and trade in birds in the EU PDF
Review of good practices on prevention
Illegal killing, taking of, and trade in birds are crimes against nature. This review of good practices in addressing such practices examines the complexities of the problem and highlights the wide array of measures needed to address it effectively. Drawing on collaborative efforts and expert input, it provides valuable guidance for various stakeholders involved in combating this illegal activity, including authorities, inspectors, and NGOs.
Available in English
In your language
Stand up for democracy PDF
Speak up for Europe
This political manifesto highlights the priorities of the President of the European Economic and Social Committee Oliver Röpke for his mandate 2023-2025. It outlines the work pillars and initiatives aimed at contributing towards a more resilient, more inclusive, and more democratic EU.
Available in all official languages of the EU
EU supervision of banks’ credit risk PDF
This special report by the European Court of Auditors assesses the European Central Bank's (ECB) role in supervising banks' credit risk within the EU. It provides valuable insights into the ECB's ongoing efforts to enhance credit risk management and coverage, with a particular focus on non-performing loans. While acknowledging the ECB's increased vigilance, the report highlights the need for further improvements to ensure proper risk management and coverage. An essential read for those interested in the stability and resilience of the European banking sector.
Available in all official languages of the EU
The amazing adventures of Syrgo and BC PDF
Vol-2, Human papilloma virus vaccine
Welcome to the second comic in the series of Syrgo and BC, two superheroes who battle against bacteria and viruses and fight against misleading information about the safety and effectiveness of vaccines. Read on as Syrgo and BC meet real life superheroes - scientists Prof. zur Hausen, Prof. Frazer, and many other researchers who were key figures in the development of an effective human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccine. These scientists’ efforts made the elimination of HPV-related cancer possible and highlight the benefits of safe and effective vaccination.
Available in all official languages of the EU
Research and innovation
Promoting clean and energy-efficient solutions for households PDF
CORDIS results pack on reducing energy bills
Discover a collection of EU-funded projects dedicated to promoting clean and energy-efficient solutions for households. From efficient appliance replacements to collective purchase schemes and community energy actions, these transformative initiatives enable individuals to make informed choices, reduce their energy bills, and contribute to a greener future.
Available in English (Individual article also available in English, French, German, Italian, Polish and Spanish on the CORDIS website)
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ChatGPT: the impact of large language models on law enforcement PDF
Explore the findings of expert workshops organised by the Europol Innovation Lab, examining the potential misuse of ChatGPT, a widely-used large language model based on artificial intelligence. The report sheds light on both the positive and negative implications of ChatGPT's capabilities, including its role in assisting investigators and its potential exploitation by criminals. An essential resource for staying ahead in the rapidly progressing field of technology-enabled law enforcement.
Available in English
Preventing radicalisation in the European Union PDF
How EU policy has evolved: in-depth analysis
This report explores the evolution of the EU's counter-radicalisation policy, tracing its origins in 2004 and its subsequent expansion beyond the fight against jihadist terrorism to address various forms of violent extremism. It examines the legal, institutional, and financial frameworks, highlighting the EU's coordination efforts and the Radicalisation Awareness Network. It also addresses new or emerging challenges for preventing radicalisation such as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the increased online presence of extremists.
Available in English
What can schools do about bullying? PDF
This factsheet provides valuable insights on how schools can effectively address the issue of bullying. It offers a range of evidence-based interventions and strategies that can be implemented, such as anti-bullying programs, restorative practices, and peer mediation. The factsheet emphasises the importance of creating an inclusive and positive school environment through policies that celebrate diversity and encourage students to make their voice heard.
Available in English
Our news
Would you like to delve deeper into the topic of the European Year of Skills? Take a look at our new dedicated bundle.
We hope you enjoyed our selection of publications on the European Year of Skills featured in this newsletter. If you're eager to read more, please visit our dedicated bundle on the EU publications website, which will be regularly updated with new content. Explore a wide selection of resources and stay informed about the latest studies and reports on skills development in the EU.
We are excited to present the spring 2023 edition of the Key Publications of the European Union catalogue to you! The catalogue offers a diverse selection of titles published in the last few months on the EU publications website, where they remain available for you to view, download or order in various formats. These publications cover a variety of political, economic, and scientific topics. The spring 2023 edition of the catalogue includes titles related to the specific challenges Europe and the world are facing today – the impact of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, the continued presence of COVID-19, the effects of climate change on our environment and societies – and what the EU is doing to address these challenges. Explore our catalogue and find publications that cater to your specific interests.
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