Swedish Minister for Employment Sven Otto Littorin visited Amsterdam and The Hague on Monday 9 November to learn of the Dutch experiences of working for youth employment. In The Hague Mr Littorin met among others representatives of the Association of Netherlands Municipalities (VNG).

They described the principles they work with to reduce youth unemployment.

”It was particularly interesting to hear about the major focus in the Netherlands on apprenticeships and job placements. They have suceeded in making a clear link between education and the labour market, which I believe we can learn from,” said Minister for Employment Sven Otto Littorin.

The visit was one of several with a focus on measures aimed at facilitating young people’s entry into the labour market. In Amsterdam Mr Littorin also met the Dutch Minister of Social Affairs and Employment, Piet Hein Donner, to discuss youth unemployment and the next informal meeting of the EPSCO Council, to be held on 30 November–1 December in Brussels.