Helping regions adapt to demographic change

The Talent Booster Mechanism (TBM) is a European Commission (EC) initiative aimed at addressing demographic challenges in EU regions experiencing workforce decline, low tertiary education rates, and youth emigration. Operating through eight distinct pillars, it aims to support regions in mitigating the impact of the demographic transition and to maintain regional competitiveness and resilience. Pillar 2 within the TBM focuses on "Smart adaptation of regions to demographic transition." Within this pillar, ten EU regions across 8 member states were selected through an open call to receive technical assistance and expertise in developing tailored place-based policies for talent development and demographic adaptation.

As part of the activities under Pillar 2 of the TBM, the OECD Centre for Entrepreneurship, SMEs, Regions & Cities (CFE), in collaboration with the EC Directorate-General for Regional and Urban Policy (DG REGIO), hosted a launch event for the first five regional studies. 

The event kicked off with the launch of the five Wave 1 regional reports, including a high-level panel on how Cohesion Policy is supporting regions in responding to demographic change. The afternoon showcased cross-cutting findings from the five regions and provide a spotlight on each Wave 1 region, highlighting key challenges, policy responses, and recommendations. The second day shifted focus to the five Wave 2 regions, offering an opportunity to present initial perspectives, exchange with Wave 1 peers, and discuss good practices across key demographic themes. The session also helped identify shared priorities and support needs as Wave 2 regions prepare for the next steps in the project.

The launch event brought together stakeholders from all ten participating regions from wave 1 and wave 2, alongside representatives from the OECD and European Commission as well as additional invitees. 

Discover what the event is about.