EU–ILO network to inform youth employment policy in three countries
The EU–ILO Youth Employment Expert Network is holding national events in Rwanda, Malawi and the Philippines between October and November 2026 to inform employment policies.
The story in focus
A series of EU–ILO Youth Employment Expert Network events in Rwanda, Malawi and the Philippines is intended to inform national employment policies and translate evidence into practical action for youth employment between October and November 2026.
- The EU–ILO Youth Employment Expert Network is holding events in Rwanda, Malawi and the Philippines between October and November 2026.
- Rwanda's event supported validation of the National Employment Policy 2026–2036, with youth representatives drafting a Call to Action.
- Malawi will review its National Employment and Labour Policy, while the Philippines will host a regional workshop on active labour market policies.
Rwanda: youth input into national employment policy
The first event took place in Kigali from 7 to 8 October 2026 as part of validation for Rwanda's National Employment Policy 2026–2036, convened with the Ministry of Public Service and Labour (MIFOTRA) and supported by an ILO project funded by Luxembourg. The final day, 9 October, was dedicated to youth participation: representatives reviewed policy priorities and drafted a Call to Action with recommendations presented to MIFOTRA.
Malawi and the Philippines: policy review and regional learning
In Salima from 3 to 5 November, the Network will support a government-led review of Malawi's National Employment and Labour Policy with the Ministry of Labour, the EU Delegation and development partners. Discussions are to focus on skills, labour market transitions, entrepreneurship and sectors including agriculture, agribusiness and the digital economy.
From 24 to 26 November, a regional workshop in the Philippines will bring policymakers and practitioners from Cambodia, the Philippines and Uzbekistan together on active labour market policies, employment services, skills development and social protection linkages.
From exchange to concept notes
The Network said co-ideation sessions will produce short concept notes for members and development partners, with a digital space continuing knowledge exchange beyond the events.
What will the EU–ILO Youth Employment Expert Network do in Malawi?
It will support a government-led review of Malawi's National Employment and Labour Policy through a three-day workshop in Salima from 3 to 5 November 2026, identifying youth employment priorities and developing policy recommendations.
Sources & further reading
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