This discussion paper is based on secondary data, accessed from two key sources. Firstly, the internet was explored, with the starting point being the CEDEFOP site (http://www.cedefop.gr) and the Careers Europe site (http://www.careerseurope.co.uk). These sites acted as portals to numerous linked sites. Secondly, an examination was undertaken of paper-based resources which acted as information sources reporting evidence of research and careers activities relevant to international perspectives. These resources are held by the National Learning Resource Centre for Guidance by the Centre for Guidance Studies (CeGS) at the University of Derby. The works included conference papers, journals, occasional papers, visit reports, briefings, guidance materials and pamphlets with an international dimension. The majority of materials sourced and examined relate to the European Union (E.U.), including both current and candidate members, but a wider global perspective was evident, through work in Canada, U.S.A., Australia, India and Hong Kong. Literature relating to the continents of Africa and South America are notable by their absence.