Benelux, Economy, Mobility
Benelux-ITEM Conference: accelerating the recognition of professional qualifications in border regions
09 Oct. 2025
More than 80 experts, decision-makers, and cross-border partners gathered at the Benelux House for a conference organized by the General Secretariat of the Benelux Union and ITEM (Maastricht University), in partnership with the UniGR-Center for Border Studies.
At the heart of the discussions: the recognition of professional qualifications — a key issue for mobility and employment in border regions.
A strategic issue for the labour market
Benelux Secretary-General Frans Weekers emphasized the urgency of simplified recognition: “Removing barriers to mobility is no longer an ambition — it is a necessity for our economies, our regions, and above all, our citizens.”
The topic is central to the Luxembourg Presidency of the Benelux in 2025 and is part of the broader effort to create a true Benelux area for education and skills.
Mapping the challenges and solutions related to the recognition of professional qualifications
A recent cross-border impact assessment published by ITEM shows that despite the existing European framework (Directive 2005/36), the recognition of qualifications remains complex, especially in border regions. The study recommends accelerating procedures, mainstreaming best practices (such as joint degrees, cross-border training, and transparency of skills), and drawing inspiration from European tools like the Common Training Frameworks to broaden recognition.
Meaningful dialogue and concrete outlooks
The conference enabled open dialogue between policymakers, project leaders, and field experts. Several initiatives were highlighted, particularly around green skills and binational training programs.
Jean-Claude Meyer, Deputy Secretary-General of the Benelux Union, presented two key areas of Benelux action: simplifying recognition procedures for regulated professions and developing tailored solutions for key cross-border occupations such as nursing assistants and industrial electricians. Speakers also stressed the importance of creating synergies between initiatives from the European Union, the Benelux, and other regional cooperation frameworks.
A technical workshop concluded the day, laying the groundwork for an expanded community of practice in 2026, with the future participation of France and Germany.
Michel-Etienne Tilemans, Deputy Secretary-General of the Benelux, concluded: “Facilitating the recognition of professional qualifications in the Benelux+ area requires a collective effort. Today’s exchanges — both political and technical — reflect a shared commitment to cooperation, which remains essential to removing obstacles. With strong political will and concrete action on the ground, Benelux is ready to lead by example in cross-border mobility and deeper European integration — where it matters most: in our border regions.”
Conference on the Recognition of Professional Qualifications | Flickr
