The regional context

All European and Central Asian countries are increasingly confronted with the challenges arising out of globalization. Their responses must focus on improving economic efficiency and social inclusion. For countries in Central and Eastern Europe and Central Asia, the establishment or consolidation of a functional market economy with a strong social component remains a key priority.

The ILO places particular emphasis, in EU countries, on promoting awareness and support for the Organization's work, and maintaining policy dialogue and cooperation on labour and social issues in Europe. In May 2004, ten countries became EU Members, joined by Bulgaria and Romania in January 2007. Other countries from South Eastern Europe are seeking to become members of the European Union, aiming at more and better employment and social justice in the enlargement process. An ILO priority is to help these countries bring their national law and practice into conformity with ILO principles and European standards. With regard to the countries of the former Soviet Union, the success achieved in strengthening their democracies will be crucial for the consolidation of political, economic and social reforms in the subregion.

A major milestone for the ILO, in 2005, was the Seventh European Regional Meeting in Budapest, which brought high visibility to ILO achievements and partnerships. The conference brought together over 700 delegates from member States in Europe and Central Asia and established future priorities for the region. These included: combating youth unemployment, addressing the impact of ageing societies and pension financing, combining the flexibilization of the labour market with employability and social protection measures for workers, and managing migration. The Eigth European Regional Meeting is scheduled to be held in 2009.

In many cases, ILO programmes in the Region benefit from the expertise of new EU member States in reforming their labour markets and in using good practices for inspiration of policy makers from governments and social partners in other countries and from the mobilization of a considerable amount of extra-budgetary resources mainly coming from OECD countries. A practical, flexible approach is necessary to respond to changing political climates and emerging needs. Work in the coming years will be guided by the conclusions of the Seventh European Regional Meeting (pdf) and a more concentrated approach that will focus on agreeing on Decent Work Country programmes with the aim of achieving a number of goals in priority countries.
Increased cooperation with the European Commission and, in particular, countries holding the EU Presidency takes place.