On 7th September 2020, the European Commission renewed the cooperation with trade unions, chambers of commerce and employers’ organisation to enhance to integration of migrants and refugees into the labour market.
Commissioner for Jobs and Social Rights, Nicolas Schmit, stated that the European Pillar of Social Rights makes no distinction where people come from, and that everyone has the right to equal treatment and opportunities regarding employment. Commission for Home Affairs, Ylva Johansson, renewed the commitment of the Commission to support employers’ organisations and other stakeholders in their engagement with refugees.
In a joint statement, the Commission and the stakeholders involved expressed their interest in cooperating further in the area of labour migration under the European Partnership on Integration. The statement recognises the key role of economic and social partners in the functioning of the labour market, the economy and the protection and welfare of all workers.
Since its launch in 2017, in the framework of the European Partnership on Integration the Commission has financed projects implemented by social and economic partners’ organisations to promote the integration of refugees into the labour market. One of the core features is the promotion of a multi-stakeholder approach, involving public authorities, employment services, economic and social partners etc.
The signatories of the statement will extend their dialogue and cooperation in line with the new European Skills Agenda and the upcoming Pact on Migration and Asylum.