This week, Brussels is hosting training organised by the European Trade Union Institute (ETUI) for young trade union leaders from across Europe. The Lithuanian Trade Union Confederation (LPSK) is represented by its International Relations Secretary, Jonas Januškevičius.

During the four-day programme, participants are not only attending presentations but are also actively engaged in practical exercises. They are deepening their knowledge of the European labour movement and Social Europe, workers’ participation and industrial relations, learning more about how the European Union institutions work, and exploring the role of trade unions at both European and national levels.

The programme includes a simulation of the European Parliament’s activity, discussions on the priorities of the European Trade Union Confederation, a meeting with the Youth Committee, a visit to the European Economic and Social Committee, and meetings with European trade union federations.

Participants are also developing their project management, cooperation and leadership skills, working in groups to identify topics for future projects.

“The training is really useful – there is a lot of practical work and the exercises are great. We gained a much clearer understanding of how the European Parliament, the Commission and the Council work. When you not only hear about these things but also try them out yourself, it is much easier to understand how decisions are made and how they affect workers’ situation,” says Jonas Januškevičius.

The training is part of a broader programme that will continue until May 2027, with two more training stages taking place in other European countries.