2012-02-15

Both the European Commission and the Education, Youth, Culture and Sport Council focused on youth unemployment in Europe: Latest statistics show that an average of more than 20% of 15-24 year olds in the EU are unemployed – that are more than 5 million young people. In some countries, such as Spain, youth unemployment is edging close to 50%. The time has come to act on European level.
 

As a cause of the current high rate of youth unemployment in Europe Commissioner Androulla Vassliou identified not only the financial crisis but also weaknesses in the European education systems. As a response to the problem, the Minsters of Education called for a stronger cooperation between education and training providers, social partners and other relevant stakeholders to support a better transition from education to work. The Ministers also discussed the advantages of dual vocational education and training systems already installed in several Member States such as Germany and Austria.
Employability could also be enhanced by better recognition of skills and competences acquired through formal, non-formal and informal education and learning. Resources under EU funds and programmes should be mobilised in order to help more young people get into work or training and enhance their mobility.

Please find here a presentation with current figures on youth unemployment by President Barroso.