On February 9 - 10 2024, an international seminar "Ensuring high-quality and sustainable employment in a changing world" was held in Vilnius / Lithuania, organized by the Education Centre of the Lithuanian Labour Federation (LDF) with the support of the European Centre for Workers Questions (EZA) and funded by the European Union.
The international seminar aimed at informing members of trade unions and other workers' organizations about European Parliament’s and European Commission’s initiatives focused on revitalizing the labour market, introducing new technologies and discussing citizens' expectations. The seminar covered important topics such as changing labour markets, reskilling and upskilling the workforce, the impact of new technologies on employees, and foresight on emerging evolving occupational safety and health risks associated with digitalization. Key speakers highlighted the challenges faced by different European countries in the labour market, such as workforce shortages, skills gaps, and the impact of digitalization on job roles and responsibilities. The seminar emphasized the importance of proactive measures to equip the workforce for the green and digital transitions and promote inclusive employment opportunities for all segments of society, including people with disabilities.
The presentations and discussions at the seminar provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities in today's labour market. They highlighted the pressing need for employees to acquire new skills to remain relevant in the digital economy, with trade unions playing a crucial role in advocating workers' interests amidst technological change. The seminar also emphasized the importance of proactive measures to ensure job security for workers, including reskilling and upskilling programs, lifelong learning initiatives, and policies promoting job creation in industries less susceptible to automation. Social dialogue was identified as essential in addressing the multifaceted challenges of the digital age, emphasizing the need for collaboration between stakeholders and trade unions to ensure a fair transition to the digital economy. Furthermore, the seminar underscored the imperative of promoting inclusive employment opportunities for all segments of society, with a specific focus on removing barriers to employment and empowering marginalized groups through targeted initiatives and support systems.
In conclusion, the seminar provided actionable recommendations for addressing the challenges in the labour market effectively. By enhancing collaboration between stakeholders, promoting skill development and social dialogue, and prioritizing inclusive employment initiatives, policymakers, employers, and trade unions can work together to ensure high-quality and sustainable employment for all in a rapidly changing world. The seminar laid the groundwork for further exploration and collaboration in addressing the evolving needs of the labour market, offering valuable perspectives on addressing these issues effectively.