Skill shortages in the European Union

The European Skills and Jobs (ESJ) survey, undertaken by the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (Cedefop), is the first survey on skill mismatch carried out in the [European Union] EU28 Member States, examines drivers of skill development and the dynamic evolution of skill mismatch in relation to the changing complexity of the tasks and skills required in people's jobs. ESJ research shows that genuine skill shortages are only present in specific sectors and occupations and affect dynamic enterprises, while many firms face recruitment difficulties due to job offers of poor quality.

In this survey insight paper, the author notes that mitigating skill shortages is a joint responsibility of private and public actors since 'countries with more responsive education and training systems have seen fewer companies faced with recruitment bottlenecks in the last decade'.

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