Europe is facing huge upheavals on the labor market. The baby boomer generation is gradually retiring, leaving a big gap.
At the same time, birth rates have been falling in many European countries for years.
A massive shortage of skilled workers is emerging. Professions in the care sector, healthcare, IT and technology are particularly affected.
External specialists
To counteract this, Europe is increasingly relying on immigration. Special campaigns such as Make it in Germany are used to attract skilled workers from abroad.
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However, there is a major problem here: the recognition of qualifications and degrees acquired abroad is extremely difficult.
One reason for this is the different education systems and training standards within Europe. On the other hand, there is a lack of transparency and harmonization of procedures. Language barriers do the rest. It can sometimes take years for academic or professional qualifications to be finally recognized. The process is even more complex for jobseekers from non-EU countries.
How do others do it?
Other countries show that things can be done differently: in the USA and Canada, for example, immigrants are actively supported in having their qualifications recognized. There are clear processes, contact persons and deadlines. In Austria, on the other hand, a central authority checks foreign qualifications on behalf of all the federal states. Such an unbureaucratic and service-oriented approach would also be a benefit for Europe.
EU Directive 2005/36/EC is intended to ensure greater transparency and facilitate the mutual recognition of professional qualifications. But this approach falls short. Concrete steps are needed to bridge the gap between European and non-European qualifications. This is the only way that Europe can truly utilize the potential of international skilled workers.
The education system of the future
At the same time, we need to make our education systems fit for the working world of tomorrow. Digitalization and artificial intelligence are rapidly changing qualification requirements. Rigid curricula and qualifications are of little use here. Instead, we need modular and adaptable educational opportunities – lifelong learning for all.
Let us work together to shape a Europe that welcomes talents from all over the world and offers them opportunities. A Europe that sees diversity as a strength. A Europe that courageously faces up to the challenges of an ageing society and a globalized labour market. The future is in our hands.
Discuss with us and have your say!
With our FITskilling roundtable, we would like to draw attention to shortened professional recognition procedures.