Promoting Labor Markets and Employment

Challenges

High and persisting unemployment and underemployment are both cause for and effect of slow economic and social development, poverty and social unrest. Hence, full and productive employment is an explicit target under the Millennium Development Goal 1, aiming at the eradication of extreme poverty and hunger. Employment and the creation of more and better jobs is also one of the main EU strategic development goals for its member and accession countries.But the functioning of labor markets is not only hampered by a lack of employment opportunities. The mismatch in the skills profiles demanded by employers and the skills job seekers actually have poses a problem. This, in turn, is often a result of insufficient labor market information.


GFA Concept and Services

GFA applies a systemic approach to address the functioning of labor markets and promotion of decent employment. We offer support in developing systems and tools making it easier for potential employees and employers to find one another in an efficient and effective manner. We work with clients to design the required strategies and programs that equip job seekers with skills, competencies and the flexibility needed in today’s labor markets.

  
  

Labor Market Analysis    
Understanding the labor market and the availability of related information is an important prerequisite for designing adequate policies. Therefore, GFA teams support the establishment of labor market information systems (LMIS). Such LMIS need to be adapted to the clients’ needs and capacities within their specific country context, in particular when it comes to data quality and accessibility. Our services focus on the design of information systems and capacity development for systematic collection and use of labor market information. If necessary, this will be complemented by appropriate information technology solutions.

Active Labor Market Policies     
With labor markets becoming more competitive, mobile and flexible, it is increasingly important to facilitate the entry into employment and to shorten transition phases. We assist governments and other stakeholders in the development and implementation of job search and career guidance systems, training and retraining programs and job creation programs. Moreover, GFA aims at increasing the employability of target groups with specific needs through customized approaches, e.g. youth employment programs, or measures to integrate people with disabilities in the labor market.

Support to Employment Agencies      
GFA experts offer their expertise to public and private employment agencies. The spectrum of services covers formulating active and passive labor market programs, developing social security services and improving unemployment insurance systems. Also, we offer the design of specific tools such as job matching or brokering services.