“Europe’s future depends on the skills of its people, in every region and every community. Cities and regions are essential partners in shaping skills policies. Investing in adult learning is not only about jobs, but also about inclusion, social cohesion, and civic participation — building a true Union of Skills.” Tanya Hristova, Mayor of Gabrovo and 1st Vice-Chair of the SEDEC Commission of the CoR made these remarks during a conference at the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) during which the CoR, in collaboration with the OECD Centre for Entrepreneurship, SMEs, Regions and Cities, officially launched the OECD policy paper on the role of subnational governments in adult skills systems.
The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders from across the EU and OECD, including representatives from local, regional, national, and multinational levels, as well as from public and private sectors. With high-level speakers and broad participation, the discussion focused on the key findings of the paper, its policy implications, and how these insights can guide the implementation of the European Union of Skills initiative.
The OECD’s analysis highlights the crucial contribution of regions and cities in shaping skills strategies, ensuring adult learning opportunities, and tailoring policies to local labour market needs. Conducted as part of the OECD’s Local Economic and Employment Development (LEED) Programme and supported by JPMorganChase, the study reinforces the importance of place-based approaches to skills development.
Looking ahead, the CoR will continue to feed into this debate. Emil Boc, Mayor of Cluj-Napoca and 1st Vice-Chair of the COTER Commission, is currently preparing a CoR opinion on the Union of Skills Strategy, ensuring that the perspective of cities and regions is reflected in shaping Europe’s long-term skills agenda.
The CoR and OECD will continue to collaborate in supporting regions and cities across Europe to strengthen adult learning systems, empowering citizens, boosting competitiveness, and reinforcing social cohesion.