The African region continues to be faced with challenges ranging from poverty and unemployment, lack of integration into the world economy, armed conflict and poor governance. In all of these aspects the HIV/AIDS pandemic impacts significantly. The IOE works with a multitude of agencies in responding to the needs and challenges of employers in the region.


The IOE works to try and tighten links between the EU and African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) countries from a trade perspective and, consequently, works closely with the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC). This collaboration is aimed at enabling IOE members from ACP countries to participate in the economic and social development of their countries as outlined in the ACP-EU Cotonou Partnership Agreement signed in 2000.