The European Commission has launched the Union of Skills, a flagship initiative within its first 100 days, designed to strengthen the EU’s human capital and global competitiveness—particularly in the technology and innovation sectors.
A key focus is attracting and retaining top tech and digital talent. The “Choose Europe” initiative will position the EU as a leading destination for global talent, with a €22.5 million Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions pilot offering world-class research and career opportunities. The Commission also plans to establish an EU Talent Pool to streamline recruitment from outside the bloc, particularly in fields facing acute skill shortages.
The initiative will also equip Europeans with the digital and STEM skills needed for the future, through a Basic Skills Support Scheme and a Skills Guarantee pilot for lifelong upskilling and reskilling. New 2030 targets include increasing STEM and ICT PhD enrolments, with a focus on boosting female participation.
By fostering skills portability and enhancing skills intelligence, the Union of Skills aims to ensure a dynamic, tech-ready workforce that will drive Europe’s digital and clean-tech transitions, strengthening its position in the global economy.
