Concerning the theme of the seminar: Labour market shortages - 7 October 2008

Shortage of workers on the labour market is a current topic in policy discussions in the Netherlands and Flanders.
The current and future labour shortage has prompted a debate about how as many people as possible can be helped to find work. The labour market shortage is expected to increase substantially in the next few years as a result of the increasing demand for replacements due to demographic developments and the growth of employment opportunities (demand as a result of expansion). In order to avoid long-term labour market shortages, it is vital to use the available labour to best effect.

How can we ensure that people are and remain employable across a wide range of the labour market and for the long term? The importance of labour mobility also plays a role in this respect. Mobile employees who change jobs regularly ensure an improved staff turnover, a better match between supply and demand, an increased labour supply and higher productivity. A satisfactory link between training and work is important so that young people have the right qualifications when they enter the labour market.

During this seminar, all these aspects will be dealt with in a varied programme with plenary and parallel sessions.