The value of the Union for the Mediterranean is that they create a platform, events where can you meet people from the North and the South, and as well to cooperate between the companies and countries in the South. There are a lot of programmes and initiatives coming up through UfM and I think that’s very important, not only to talk, but to do.”
Rainier Ptok
Head of Foreign Relations at BVMW, the German Association for Small and Medium-sized Businesses
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.
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80% | of jobs |
are created by SMEs in the Euro-Mediterranean region
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70% | of the working-age population |
In the Southern Mediterranean countries is under 30 years old
 |
€20+ | billion by 2018: |
Potential increase in the region’s Gross Domestic Product if youth unemployment is cut in half
Foster job creation and support the development of SMEs through the UfM Mediterranean Initiative for Jobs (Med4Jobs).
Support creative industries and Social and Solidarity Economy in the region.
Develop a strategy for private sector development, advancing Industrial cooperation, trade and investments in the region.
