The EU–ILO Youth Employment Expert Network is advancing youth employment policies in Rwanda, Malawi and the Philippines through research, collaboration and country-level action in 2026.
Background and Overview
The European Union (EU) and the International Labour Organization (ILO) are strengthening efforts to improve youth employment policies in Rwanda, Malawi and the Philippines through the EU–ILO Youth Employment Expert Network.
The initiative brings together policymakers, researchers, social partners, young people and development partners to translate evidence and experience into practical employment solutions.
The programme aims to strengthen partnerships, improve employment policy development and create more opportunities for young people to access decent work.
The initiative is co-funded by the European Union and implemented by the ILO. It forms part of broader efforts to promote youth employment and strengthen collaboration between countries, institutions and development partners.
Activities in Rwanda, Malawi and the Philippines
Rwanda: Youth Participation in National Employment Policy
The first event took place in Kigali, Rwanda, from 7 to 9 October 2026, supporting the validation process for the country’s National Employment Policy 2026–2036.
Participants discussed youth employment programmes, effective policy implementation and partnerships to expand employment opportunities.
Young representatives also developed a Call to Action outlining recommendations for implementing and monitoring the policy. The recommendations were presented to Rwanda’s Ministry of Public Service and Labour.
Malawi: Developing a New Employment and Labour Policy
From 3 to 5 November 2026, the network is scheduled to support a government-led review of Malawi’s National Employment and Labour Policy.
The three-day workshop in Salima will focus on identifying priorities for youth employment, including skills development, entrepreneurship, transitions into work and productive employment opportunities.
Agriculture and agribusiness will receive particular attention, alongside opportunities in tourism, the digital economy and other economic sectors.
Participants are expected to develop policy recommendations and practical solutions that can inform the country’s employment and labour policy.
Philippines: Regional Learning on Youth Employment Policies
From 24 to 26 November 2026, a regional technical workshop in the Philippines will bring together policymakers, experts and practitioners from Cambodia, the Philippines and Uzbekistan.
The workshop will examine active labour market policies and their role in promoting inclusive employment, particularly for young people.
Discussions will address employment services, skills development and links with social protection. Participants will also develop practical recommendations to inform national policy discussions and future technical cooperation.
Key Objectives of the EU–ILO Youth Employment Expert Network
The initiative focuses on translating research, expertise and collaboration into practical employment solutions.
Its main objectives include strengthening national employment policies, promoting knowledge exchange, supporting meaningful youth participation and encouraging partnerships between governments, employers, workers and development organisations.
Through collaborative workshops and co-ideation sessions, participants identify employment challenges and develop ideas for potential interventions. These proposals may be consolidated into concept notes shared with network members and development partners to support further collaboration.
The network also provides a digital space for experts and institutions to exchange knowledge and work together on youth employment priorities.
How to Participate
Professionals and institutions interested in contributing to youth employment policy can explore the network through the ILO’s official website.
Learn more: EU–ILO Youth Employment Expert Network
Join the network’s digital space: Visit the project page above for information on participation and opportunities to connect with other youth employment experts.
The initiative is a knowledge-sharing and policy collaboration programme, not a job vacancy or individual funding opportunity.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the EU–ILO Youth Employment Expert Network?
It is an initiative co-funded by the European Union and implemented by the International Labour Organization to strengthen youth employment policies, knowledge exchange and collaboration.
2. Which countries are involved in the 2026 activities?
The national activities focus on Rwanda, Malawi and the Philippines. A regional workshop in the Philippines will also involve participants from Cambodia and Uzbekistan.
3. What happened in Rwanda?
An event held in Kigali from 7 to 9 October 2026 supported the validation of Rwanda’s National Employment Policy 2026–2036 and included youth-led recommendations for policy implementation.
4. When will the Malawi workshop take place?
The scheduled workshop in Salima is from 3 to 5 November 2026 and will support the development of Malawi’s National Employment and Labour Policy.
5. What will the Philippines workshop cover?
The 24–26 November 2026 workshop will focus on active labour market policies, employment services, skills development and social protection linkages.
6. Can individuals join the network?
The ILO invites people interested in youth employment expertise and collaboration to explore its official project page and digital network space for participation information.
7. Does the initiative offer jobs or grants?
The supplied announcement does not advertise individual jobs, scholarships or grants. It describes policy workshops, knowledge exchange and collaboration opportunities.
Conclusion
The EU–ILO Youth Employment Expert Network is supporting efforts to turn evidence and shared expertise into practical employment policy action across Rwanda, Malawi and the Philippines. By involving governments, development partners, experts and young people, the initiative seeks to strengthen national priorities and improve the prospects for decent work.
Disclaimer: This article summarises an ILO news announcement published on 9 October 2026. For official updates and participation details, consult the International Labour Organization’s website.
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