Giampiero Zito

In the medium to long term, this standardisation work can enable a more open, interoperable and trusted European ecosystem for micro-credentials, lifelong learning and workforce data. Common governance requirements can reduce fragmentation and integration costs, allowing credentials, learning records and trust evidence to operate across platforms, institutions and borders. For European SMEs, this can lower technical and market-entry barriers, reduce dependence on proprietary ecosystems, and create opportunities for interoperable EdTech, HRTech, identity and DLT-based services. Trusted and machine-readable skills data can also strengthen innovation in AI-enabled workforce services. By aligning global standardisation with European approaches to digital identity, skills, data governance and human-centric trust, the work can enhance EU competitiveness while supporting scalable cross-border solutions and greater technological sovereignty.