Future Skill Needs in Europe: Medium-Term Forecast : Background Technical Report

This publication provides a detailed technical background and an overview ofthe results of the Cedefop Skillsnet project on developing a medium-termforecast of occupational skill needs in Europe, carried out in 2007. It outlinesthe approach that has been adopted and presents the final results. It alsohighlights the many data and technical problems that had to be untangled andsets out the solutions that have been adopted. The overall aim of the project has been to develop a new system forproducing detailed and consistent, quantitative projections of future skill needsacross Europe. Given the difficulties faced, a certain amount of pragmatismhas been required, but this set of results provides a sound foundation to takethe debate about the changing pattern of demand for skills in Europe to a newlevel.