Employment week welcomes keynote speakers from the European Commission

Employment Week 2006, taking place in Brussels on 16-18 May 2006, is delighted to announce two high-profile keynote speakers from the European Commission. Vladimir Spidla, Commissioner responsible for Employment, Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities and Nikolaus Van Der Pas, Director-General, will be opening and closing the three-day conference. Their presentations will provide a unique opportunity for delegates to hear about the progress being made on the European agenda for jobs and social inclusion, from the very top.

As Commissioner, Vladimir Spidla is at the heart of the political efforts to help Europe ëmove into higherí gear to create jobs and tackle the challenges of globalisation and the ageing EU population. Van der Pas will focus on the EUís ëProspects for Employment and Growthí.

Employment Week, now in its 13th year, is an integral part of the EU employment calendar, providing practitioners and European decision-makers with a platform to connect and discuss the latest policies and employment trends affecting national governments, commercial businesses and European citizens. The event is expecting over 1,200 participants.

There will be over 25 conference presentations with a range of hot topics including: Europe in the global economy; the Lisbon strategy; employability through diversity; social inclusion; work life balance; EU enlargement; and the future of European employment. The Employment Week conference will create debate, generate ideas and deliver creative solutions to employment challenges. Panel sessions include speakers representing global perspectives and sometimes-conflicting views or interests.

An exhibition will be running alongside the conference, creating a perfect opportunity for delegates to network. Over 60 exhibitors are expected to take part including: Ministries of Labour; training and education organisations; public employment offices; NGOs; and EU project partners ñ all keen to share their knowledge and experience with others involved in job creation and regeneration within the EU.

Stephanie Pothier, Employment Week 2006 Event Manager, said, ìWeíre very much looking forward to hearing from our prestigious speakers about the latest developments that are directly driving the EU employment agenda forward. The conference seminars will offer delegates the chance to hear expert views and case studies from senior representatives in both governmental organisations and private sector business, all gathered in one room.î

Employment Week 2006 will bring together European and global performers from regional bodies, businesses, employment services, research agencies, NGOs and social partners to debate current issues in new and interactive formats.