Finland to host WorldSkills Europe General Assembly 2026

Photo: Jussi Hellsten / MyHelsinki

Press release by WorldSkills Europe, 10 September 2025

Helsinki has been chosen as the host city of the WorldSkills Europe General Assembly 2026.

Skills Finland presented its bid to WorldSkills Europe Delegates at the 2025 General Assembly in Herning, Denmark, after which Member countries voted unanimously in favour.

Ben Blackledge, Chair of the WorldSkills Europe Board, congratulated Skills Finland on their successful bid: “Hosting the General Assembly in Helsinki highlights Finland’s ongoing commitment to collaboration across Europe, and to enhancing the attractiveness, growth, and development of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) for young people through the provision of world-class training and standards in professional skills. We look forward to gathering with colleagues in Helsinki next year.”

Maria Ekroth, CEO of Skills Finland, added: “We are thrilled to receive the unanimous support of all Members. It is a great honour to host the WorldSkills Europe General Assembly 2026 in Helsinki. We look forward to welcoming all delegates to Finland’s capital — the happiest city in the happiest country in the world — and to exploring innovative approaches to skills development together.”

The proposed programme for the General Assembly will focus on creating opportunities for dialogue and exchange on competition-based learning and other innovative approaches to TVET among all 34 WorldSkills Europe Member countries.

The General Assembly 2026 will be held in central Helsinki, a city known for its modern architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and easy connectivity across Europe. Possible side activities may include guided tours of Helsinki’s historic sites, the Design District, and nearby attractions such as Suomenlinna Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

As the highest authority of WorldSkills Europe, the General Assembly 2026 will include meetings of the WorldSkills Europe Strategy and Competitions Committees, Marketing and Communications Officers, as well as Sponsors and Partners.

Skills Finland has experience in hosting a successful WorldSkills Europe General Assembly, having previously hosted the General Assembly in Helsinki in 2015.

Learn more about Finland

Finland, located in Northern Europe, is renowned for its high-quality education system, innovation in vocational training, and commitment to sustainability. Helsinki, the capital, is a hub for business, culture, and international cooperation, and is easily accessible via rail, road, and air connections.

With a strong tradition of collaboration and a focus on skills excellence, Finland offers an inspiring and productive setting for the WorldSkills Europe General Assembly 2026.