Newsletter 06/2026

Newsletter 06/2026

In this edition of the EESPN Newsletter, we are delighted to introduce the first two features in our new EESPN Spotlight series. Oleg Barcari from the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of Moldova shares insights on building more inclusive social protection systems, while Yevgine Vardanyan from Armenia’s National Institute of Labour and Social Protection discusses the ongoing social protection reform…

EESPN Spotlight: Oleg Barcari on Building More Inclusive Social Protection in Moldova

EESPN Spotlight: Oleg Barcari on Building More Inclusive Social Protection in Moldova

The latest EESPN Spotlight Series features Oleg Barcari from the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of the Republic of Moldova, whose work is helping drive reforms aimed at strengthening social assistance, reducing poverty, and improving support for vulnerable populations. In the interview, Barcari reflects on Moldova’s efforts to modernise minimum income schemes, develop stronger…

EESPN Spotlight: Yevgine Vardanyan on Driving Social Protection Reform in Armenia

EESPN Spotlight: Yevgine Vardanyan on Driving Social Protection Reform in Armenia

In the latest edition of the EESPN Spotlight Series, we feature Yevgine Vardanyan, Deputy Director of Armenia’s National Institute of Labour and Social Research, whose work is helping shape some of the country’s most significant social protection reforms. From tackling extreme poverty and advancing integrated social services to supporting evidence-based policymaking and regional cooperation, Vardanyan…

BB Policy Review Report: Supporting the provision of affordable and high-quality professional home care for later life

BB Policy Review Report: Supporting the provision of affordable and high-quality professional home care for later life

The European Centre has released the report from the online BB policy review, “Supporting the provision of affordable and high-quality professional home care for later life” hosted by the European Centre for Social Welfare Policy and Research (European Centre) in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs of the Republic of Moldova on…

Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Montenegro

Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Montenegro

The European Centre and the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Dialogue of Montenegro have signed a new Memorandum of Understanding covering the period 2026–2031. The agreement sets out the framework for continued cooperation in social policy development, research collaboration, and knowledge exchange. It reinforces the shared commitment to supporting evidence-based policymaking and advancing innovative…

12th BBinar: Employment Policy in the Western Balkans: the way forward
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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…

Newsletter 03/2026

Newsletter 03/2026

In the March issue of the EESPN newsletter, we are pleased to announce the appointment of Anette Scoppetta as the new Executive Director, effective 1 March 2026. In her new role, she will continue to strengthen the European Centre’s bridge building activities together with colleagues working on BB and further advance collaboration across the network. You…

Change in Management

Change in Management

As of 1 March, the Board of Directors has appointed Anette Scoppetta as the new Executive Director, following a public international tender. She succeeds Kai Leichsenring, who led the Centre with great dedication and vision over the past ten years. With many years of experience at the Centre as Deputy Director, Anette Scoppetta now takes…

Memorandum of Understanding with the Employment Agency of the Republic of Kosovo

Memorandum of Understanding with the Employment Agency of the Republic of Kosovo

The European Centre and the Employment Agency of the Republic of Kosovo signed a new Memorandum of Understanding covering the period 2026–2031. The agreement sets out the framework for continued cooperation in social policy development, research collaboration, and knowledge exchange. It reinforces the shared commitment to supporting evidence-based policymaking and advancing innovative approaches within Uzbekistan’s…

Memorandum of Understanding with the National Agency for Social Protection of Uzbekistan

Memorandum of Understanding with the National Agency for Social Protection of Uzbekistan

The European Centre and the National Agency for Social Protection in Uzbekistan signed a new Memorandum of Understanding covering the period 2026–2031. The agreement sets out the framework for continued cooperation in social policy development, research collaboration, and knowledge exchange. It reinforces the shared commitment to supporting evidence-based policymaking and advancing innovative approaches within Uzbekistan’s…