12th BBinar: Employment Policy in the Western Balkans: the way forward
The 12th BBinar will explore current approaches to labour market development and the future direction of employment strategies across the six Western Balkan economies. Particular attention will be given to skills development, the green and digital transitions, labour market resilience, and the employment-related aspects of the EU accession process. Furthermore, the discussion will focus on the process of designing new employment strategies for the future, especially consultation processes and any related challenges. The BBinar will examine how evidence-based policymaking and long-term strategic frameworks can support inclusive growth, improve workforce adaptability, and address demographic and structural challenges in the countries of the region. Bringing together policymakers, researchers, social partners, and civil society representatives, the event aims to foster dialogue, share regional experiences and good practices, and identify priorities for building more sustainable, competitive, and inclusive labour markets in the Western Balkans.
Time & Date: 2 July 2026, 10:00 – 11:30 (CEST); online (via Zoom), English.
Agenda:
10:00 – 10:10: Introductory input (Welcome)
- Sonila Danaj, Deputy Director, Employment and Labour Mobility Research Team Lead, European Centre (Austria)
10:10 – 10:30: Input presentation from
- Armin Fetahovic, Independent Advisor, Ministry of Labor, Employment and Social Dialogue (Montenegro)
- Vanja Filipovic, Affiliation, Ministry of Labor, Employment and Social Dialogue (Montenegro)
10:30 – 10:50: Comments to the presentation from
- Ratka Babic, Team Lead, ESAP: Employment and Social Affairs Platform 3 (Regional Cooperation Council)
- Muhamet Klinaku, Head of Department for Labour Market (National Employment Agency (Kosovo)
11:50 – 11:30: Q&A and discussion with audience
Moderator: Sonila Danaj, European Centre (Austria)
If you have any questions, please contact Sabina Gjylsheni (gjylsheni@euro.centre.org).
