BusinessEurope has responded to the launch of the Union of Skills initiative, highlighting its significance in tackling skills and labor shortages within the European Union. Markus J. Beyrer, Director General of BusinessEurope, stated: "Addressing the skills and labour shortages that are holding companies back is central to a successful industrial strategy and creating quality jobs."
The Union of Skills was introduced alongside the signing of the European Social Dialogue Pact. It aims to aid Member States and social partners in aligning education and training with market needs more effectively. Beyrer noted that "actions to develop peoples’ skills are most efficiently taken at grassroots level."
The initiative emphasizes enhancing skill acquisition across all educational levels, including basic skills and STEM subjects—science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Currently, 30% of 15-year-olds in the EU lack minimum proficiency in math, while around 25% face challenges with reading and science.
An important aspect of the initiative is promoting digital credentials for mutual recognition of skills and qualifications across EU borders, thereby facilitating mobility.
Beyrer expressed optimism about contributing employers' perspectives to make the Union of Skills a success: "BusinessEurope looks forward to bringing the employers’ contribution to making the Union of Skills a reality and ensuring that companies across the EU have access to the skilled workforce they need to thrive."