Skills supply and demographic challenges on agenda for informal EU meeting

At the meeting, participants will discuss how skills mismatch between available skills and employers’ needs can be prevented in times of transition and how to provide sustainable social protection in light of demographic developments with ageing populations.

“Skills supply is key to European growth and prosperity in times of the green and digital transitions in the economy. Education and training are essential to create good matching between employers and workers”, says Mr Pehrson.

“The Swedish Presidency is putting issues concerning the older and ageing populations of the EU Member States at the top of the agenda. We are leading more active and healthier lives later in life, which is a very positive development that creates numerous opportunities. This, in turn, requires sustainable social security systems. I am therefore happy that the ministers in the Council have the opportunity to discuss these issues with the Commission and the Parliament, as well as the social partners and civil society,” says Ms Tenje.

The ministers from the EU Member States will be joined by European commissioners, the European Parliament, ministers from the European Free Trade Association countries and representatives of the social partners and civil society.

During the meeting, Sweden’s model for transition and security – the transition package – will be presented to the participants. Sweden’s social partners will also organise an exhibition adjacent to the meeting venue.