The international seminar, titled "Equality and Discrimination in the Context of the Triple Crises," was held on 6-7 December 2024 in Vilnius / Lithuania, organised by LDF Education Center (VsI Lithuanian Labor Federation Education Center) in cooperation with the European Center for Workers Questions (EZA) and funded by the European Union. The seminar brought together experts, trade union leaders, and academics from across Europe to address the multifaceted impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the energy crisis, and the Ukraine war on labour markets and social justice.
The seminar aimed to foster discussions on the challenges faced by vulnerable groups during crises and to explore effective social dialogue, policy measures, and innovative solutions to build inclusive and resilient workplaces. Over 50 representatives of workers’ organisations from different European countries attended the seminar.
The interconnected crises of the pandemic, energy instability, and geopolitical conflict have significantly disrupted European labour markets. These challenges have exposed and exacerbated existing inequalities, particularly affecting vulnerable groups such as the elderly, youth, migrants, and workers in precarious employment. The seminar aimed to provide a platform for exchanging ideas, sharing best practices, and formulating strategies to address these issues in alignment with European Commission objectives for inclusive growth and social justice.
The seminar concluded with actionable recommendations:
Strengthen social dialogue to navigate future crises collaboratively;
Promote lifelong learning to prepare the workforce for evolving economic demands;
Expand targeted programs for older workers, youth, persons with disabilities, and refugees;
Address regional disparities and qualification mismatches to create a more equitable labour market;
Encourage innovation and entrepreneurship as pathways to resilience.
This seminar provided valuable perspectives and a platform for strategic planning, emphasising the importance of social protection measures in creating a resilient and inclusive labour market.