Forthcoming policy developments

According to the Decree on the legislative framework for the full-scale implementation of dual learning, the system of dual learning will replace the old system of learning and working (see section, 3.5 Traineeships and Apprenticeships). The system of learning and working is currently phased out and will end in 2026.

Ongoing debates

The following debates are relevant when it comes to youth employment:

• The role of lifelong learning and internships and traineeships to reduce the quantitative and qualitative mismatch between the skills of workers and the needs of the labour market en to integrate youth in the labour market (Policy Paper Education and Training (2024-2029) and Policy Paper on Employment (2024-2029))

• The further development of skills forecasts as a cornerstone of training and lifelong learning policy, at macro, meso and micro levels. The intention is to better identify current and future competence needs for the labour market and to encourage educational actors to (continue to) incorporate these (Policy Paper Education and Training (2024-2029) and Policy Paper on Employment (2024-2029)).