How to eradicate skills poverty among the most vulnerable?

As we move towards greener and more digital economies, we are experiencing changes in the demand for skills. While this requires investment in training and reskilling, it is crucial that these measures also reach the most vulnerable, including people who are already experiencing poverty and social exclusion.

What is the link between skills gaps and poverty? How can upskilling and reskilling opportunities be designed in order to reach those who need it?

On 10 July, the EESC's Civil Society Organisations' Group will hold a thematic debate that explores these questions. The debate will see the launch of an exploratory study on How to eradicate skills poverty among the most vulnerable?, which was requested by the Group in the framework of the European Year of Skills. The study examines the novel concept of skills poverty, proposing a definition, investigating possible drivers and solutions, thus opening the way for further research into this topic in the future.

Speakers will include:

• Agnieszka Maj, co-author of the study and economist at CASE – Center for Social and Economic Research
• Juliana Wahlgren, Director of the European Anti-Poverty Network (EAPN)

The debate is organised within the context of the overriding priority of the Civil Society Organisations' Group on the fight against poverty and the role of civil society organisations in combatting poverty.

The debate will start at 12.00 and end at 13.00 CEST. It will be webstreamed in English, French and Spanish. Prior registration for the webstreaming is not necessary. It will be available on this website on the day of the event.

The study will be available for download shortly.