Joint event: Enhancing quality of work and life through effective social dialogue in the Western Balkans

The event focused on the role of social dialogue in addressing socio-economic challenges, presented relevant survey findings on living and working conditions and discussed the future of skills in the Western Balkan region. It also identified actionable initiatives for improvement, drawing on examples from EU Member States that joined in 2004.

In addition to leading representatives of the three organising institutions, the event brought together government representatives, employers' organisations, and trade unions from the region, with the goal of sharing knowledge, making suggestions and recommendations as to how to improve living and working conditions, enhance skills and support social dialogue.

Working sessions enabled participants to identify challenges, opportunities and concrete steps social partners and governments can take in order to improve the quality of jobs, increase the opportunities for young people to get good jobs, and ensure that the workforce in the region has the skills required for meeting the needs of the economy.

The event took place in the context of the critical stage the Western Balkan region is at in relation to its EU accession process, having made substantial progress in recent years and recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Social dialogue in the region is supported by the Employment and Social Affairs Platform (ESAP), the European Training Foundation (ETF), and Eurofound, which facilitate communication between EU and Western Balkan stakeholders. Strengthening social dialogue is crucial for addressing socio-economic challenges and preparing for EU membership.

A selection of photos from the event are available on our Flickr page.