Eurostat estimates that approximately 23 million people in the EU-27 were unemployed in October 2011, an increase of 440,000 since October 2010 with the highest rates in Spain, Greece and Latvia, respectively. However, according to a review carried out by the European Commission, the EU labour market is recovering slowly and unevenly with the unemployment rate falling in twelve Member States, compared with a year ago. Long-term unemployment is one of the main concerns of policy makers. Apart from its financial and social effects on personal life, long-term unemployment negatively affects social cohesion and, ultimately, will stifle economic growth. Educational qualifications are still the best insurance against unemployment, and figures show that almost every Member State experienced upward trends in the general level of educational attainment in 2010.Within the context of the European Employment Strategy, there are a number of measures that are designed to help encourage people to remain in work or find a new job, including: the promotion of a life-cycle to work, life-long learning, improving support for those seeking a job, as well as ensuring equal opportunities. In line with the Europe 2020 Strategy, the European Employment Strategy seeks to create more and better jobs throughout the EU. The strategy provides a framework for EU countries to share information, discuss issues and coordinate their employment policies.This special International Symposium provides a timely opportunity for stakeholders and civil societies across the EU to discuss the root challenges behind current unemployment trends, exchange best practices and consider mechanisms for overcoming existing employment gaps in the labour market. The Symposium will highlight some latest developments and initiatives for promoting social inclusion, better access to education and training and examine their contribution to building a sustainable lifestyle model for all European citizens.