The 29th EAPM Congress was held in Lake Bled (4-5 April). Attended by over 500 delegates from 29 European countries, “LoveHR” provided a unifying theme to the Congress. The sight of all participants holding up their “Love HR” cards was an impressive and inspiring picture. It helped set the tone for an upbeat, engaging event both within the Conference Hall, and indeed outside with various social events.
Lucas van Wees, EAPM President (2018-2020), opened the Congress. He argued that HR had to credible, relevant and with a key eye for impact. But, critically, the context in which HR operated today, had to be understood. The big questions of our time were technology energy and climate, demographics and politics (for example, the rise of populism) Lucas was clear “HR can help shape the future workforce”. With over 12 main presentations, two round table discussions, and a series of parallel sessions organised by the Slovenian HR Association, a rich landscape was on offer to delegates. In the forum a variety of sponsor stands generated additional interest. Delegates could even win a brightly coloured gecko at one of the stands. And there was even a fun run for charity around Lake Bled!
Three interrelated themes are highlighted here in order to relay some of the presentation content and main messages of the Congress.
The title of the 29th EAPM Congress in Bled (Slovenia) was “#LoveHR”. The structure of the Congress proved its title – with a wide range of topics: from Future HR trends till practical business cases from Slovenia and abroad; with interesting and engaging speakers and a big variation of events: practical sessions, discussions, exposition, networking opportunities and a charity run around the lake. Organizers succeeded to create a truly international HR event with deep professional view and warm atmosphere in the very beautiful place of Slovenia.
The next EAPM Congress will be held in Lithuania in October 2021. It shows that EAPM has become a real partnership-based organization, where all members can have their input and equal influence.
Solveiga Grudienė, CMC
PRIMUM ESSE direktorė
