- The European Training Foundation (ETF) and the International Labour Organization (ILO) agreed to expand joint action on skills, lifelong learning, and employment policies, backing the green transition, competitiveness, and social inclusion.
TURIN, Italy, (ILO News) – The International Labour Organization (ILO) and the European Training Foundation (ETF) will work more closely to help countries improve skills systems, vocational education, apprenticeships and employment policies.
Under a cooperation agreement signed Monday 9 February by Pilvi Torsti, director of the ETF, and Sangheon Lee, director of the employment policy department of the ILO, the two organizations agreed to join forces to improve skills and labour market data, support education and training systems adapting to the green and digital transitions, strengthen vocational education and work-based learning, improve career guidance and recognise skills gained outside formal education.
The Declaration of Intent establishes a framework of maximum five years for closer coordination and knowledge sharing, in line with international labour standards, European Union policy priorities and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Pilvi Torsti, director of the European Training Foundation, said:
“Labour markets are being reshaped by digital, climate and demographic changes. Countries need skills and employment policies that not only respond to today’s demand but also prepare people for future transitions. By strengthening our cooperation with the ILO, we aim to support countries with forward-looking, evidence-based policy advice that helps build inclusive labour markets and secure decent work for all.”
Sangheon Lee, director of the ILO Employment Policy Department, said:
“By strengthening our cooperation with the ETF, we will support countries and ILO constituents in developing skills and employment policies that are evidence-based and respond to the realities of today’s changing world of work. Through social dialogue and stronger training systems, this cooperation will contribute to national strategies that effectively respond to and anticipate emerging skills needs and help workers and employers navigate increasingly complex labour markets.”
The cooperation agreement will focus on:
- Joint advice to governments on skills, vocational education, apprenticeships, lifelong learning and employment policies.
- Better data on skills and jobs to understand labour market needs and education-to-work transitions.
- Preparing for green and digital change by helping education, training and employment systems adapt while promoting inclusion and decent work.
- Stronger vocational education and apprenticeships that lead to real job opportunities.
- Career guidance and flexible learning, including recognition of skills gained outside formal education.
- Sharing expertise through joint publications, training and online resources.
