The session is the 23rd board meeting of the European Network of Public Employment Services (PES) and brings together directors of labor agencies, European Commission representatives and policy experts from all 27 member states. It was opened by Poland’s family and labor minister Agnieszka Dziemianowicz-Bąk and network chair Caroline Mancel.
“Europe faces a complex global reality,” Dziemianowicz-Bąk told delegates. “Public employment services are a pillar of security on the labor market, supporting skills development and activation.”
Discussions focus on how AI is reshaping recruitment, the need for digital and green competences, implementation of the EU’s Pillar of Social Rights, and reforms to unemployment-benefit systems.
Poland highlights low unemployment
The host country said it remains near the top of the EU league table for low joblessness despite demographic and technological headwinds. According to Eurostat, Poland’s unemployment rate was 3.3 % in April 2025, the second-lowest in the bloc.
The employment rate for 20- to 64-year-olds reached 78.4 % in 2024, already exceeding Poland’s 2030 target under the Pillar of Social Rights, the ministry added.
Officials also briefed participants on an overhaul of Poland’s local labor offices aimed at faster digital services, improved cyber-security and crisis response. “Employment offices must now cope with shocks from pandemics, wars or natural disasters while embracing digitization,” Dziemianowicz-Bąk said.
Denmark up next
Denmark, which takes over the rotating EU Council presidency on July 1, outlined its priorities for the next six months at the close of the first day’s talks.
The PES board meeting runs through Friday, with conclusions to be forwarded to EU employment ministers later this year.
(jh)
Source: PAP