EU support to Ukrainian refugees
The Commision outlined the actions being taken to support Member States in meeting the needs of those fleeing the war against Ukraine and its people. Among them, access to education and jobs is vital. Relevant actions include:
- the Commission has added the Ukrainian language to the EU Skills Profile Tool for third country nationals, to help Ukrainian job seekers and those who wish to continue their studies.
- the ESCO classification of occupations and skills will also be translated into Ukrainian, to allow organisations facilitate the job-matching and career guidance for Ukrainian refugees.
- The Commission is developing new guidelines to facilitate the recognition of professional qualifications obtained in Ukraine, and work will continue with the European Training Foundation to compare European Qualifications Framework and the Ukrainian national qualifications framework.
- In addition, the Commission is exploring the potential of European Digital Credentials for Learning to reissue diplomas in digital format for those who do not have the necessary documents, having fled the war.
- The European Training Foundation is setting up a resource site to help both Ukrainians seeking assistance in having their qualifications recognised, and others who need help in interpreting them.
- Among the rights offered under the Temporary Protection Directive is the right to educational opportunities for adults, and vocational training. Support for those arriving from Ukraine in re-skilling can also help to meet EU labour market needs and skills gaps. The European Labour Authority has identified 28 occupations, making up 14% of EU jobs, which are facing shortages.