The Mediterranean region has one of the highest rates of unemployment in the world. In this context, the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) is engaged in the implementation of specific projects and initiatives focused on the development of business, employment opportunities and employability skills.
There is particularly emphasis on youth and women, thus addressing cross-cutting issues such as the promotion of women’s socio-economic empowerment and the enhancement of youth employability.
Particular attention is devoted to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), vectors for innovation and economic growth in the Mediterranean region.
Foster job creation and support the development of SMEs through the UfM Mediterranean Initiative for Jobs (Med4Jobs)
Support creative industries, digital economy and social and solidarity economy in the region
Develop a strategy for private sector development, advancing industrial cooperation, trade and investments in the region
80%
of jobs
are created by SMEs in the Euro- Mediterranean region
By 2050 more than 300 milion young people
will be entering the job market in mena region
Trade flow distribution in the Euro-Mediterranean region indicate that
90% happen within the EU while only 1%
of trade flows are made among the Southern Mediterranean neighbours