The latest episode of PESPod – the podcast of the European Network of Public Employment Services (PES Network) – explores how Public Employment Services (PES) can promote fair and ethical recruitment of workers from outside the European Union.

With skill shortages growing across Europe and many employers turning to third-country nationals (TCNs) to fill vacancies, this episode focuses on how PES can support recruitment that is transparent, rights-based and beneficial for both workers and employers.

In this episode, host David Poyser is joined by Regina Konle-Seidl, Senior Researcher at the Institute for Employment Research (IAB) in Nuremberg, Germany, and Metka Barbo Škerbinc, Director-General of the Employment Service of Slovenia. Together, they discuss how Public Employment Services (PES) can strengthen their role as trusted intermediaries in international recruitment, working with employers, social partners and public authorities to prevent exploitation and ensure fair treatment of migrant workers.

Regina and Metka also share insights from the PES Network Thematic Review Workshop on fair recruitment of third country nationals held in Ljubljana, Slovenia, in June 2025, as well as examples from various PES on how they promote fair recruitment.

The episode also explores how Slovenia is applying this in practice, from validating employment contracts before work permits are issued, to organising ‘Living and Working in Slovenia’ events in nearby countries such as Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia and Serbia.

Key topics discussed include:

The growing importance of fair recruitment: With skill shortages across Europe, PES are taking a more active role in ensuring ethical international recruitment.

PES as trusted intermediaries: From assessing working conditions to coordinating with labour inspectorates, PES can help guarantee fairness throughout the recruitment process.

Innovative practices from Slovenia: Bilateral cooperation with neighbouring countries and information events abroad are helping protect workers from misinformation or exploitation whilst providing comprehensive information on living conditions, rights and obligations under Slovenian legislation.

Future opportunities: How the EU Talent Pool could provide a transparent platform for international recruitment, making it easier for employers to connect with jobseekers in third countries while promoting fair working conditions.

If you have any comments about this episode or would like to suggest future topics, write to: [email protected]