ENHANCING COOPERATION BETWEEN
SOUTH BALTIC LABOUR MARKET ACTORS

The local and regional labour markets of the South Baltic area are characterised by different socio-economic developments. In all European regions populations are ageing, but the southern rim of the Baltic Sea Region faces additional challenges: high overall unemployment and an outflow of young, qualified people who seek better education and job opportunities in urban areas ("brain drain"). This brings forth a shrinking qualified labour force and reduced economic competitiveness in the long run. Joint cross-border actions are needed to match the labour market demands by promoting the South Baltic area as an attractive place to live and work in.

Nine partners from Poland, Lithuania and Germany tackle these challenges within the "South Baltic Professionals" project by conducting an analysis of the labour market situation and of barriers to labour force mobility. Furthermore, South Baltic Professionals will implement pilot actions regarding job promotion and qualification. The partnership will cooperate with 15 associated organisations.