Montenegro is set to persist in its reform efforts designed to enhance youth employability and improve conditions in the labor market, confirmed Minister of Labor, Employment and Social Dialogue Naida Nišić.

She took part in the event titled “Improving the quality of life and work through effective social dialogue in the Western Balkans” in Tirana, which was organized by Eurofound, the European Training Foundation (ETF), and the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), in partnership with the Office of the Prime Minister and the Ministry of Economy, Culture and Innovation of Albania.

During the event, Minister Nišić held a bilateral discussion with Pilvi Torsti, the President of the European Training Foundation, emphasizing the enhancement of collaboration in youth employment, social inclusion, and the strengthening of institutional capacities to implement reforms in alignment with European standards, as stated by the Ministry.

Nišić underscored the significant role of ETF support in the development of the Youth Guarantee program in Montenegro, which is regarded as “one of the Government’s primary strategies in combating youth unemployment.”

“The ETF has significantly contributed to the planning and strategic formulation of the Youth Guarantee initiative, particularly through assistance in crafting a strategy for the active inclusion of young individuals not engaged in education, employment, or training (NEET). Montenegro continues to be strongly committed to creating integrated policies that connect education, the labor market, and social inclusion, identifying the ETF as a vital strategic ally in this endeavor,” the Minister remarked.

The meeting also explored opportunities for further collaboration with the academic sector and international partners, particularly concerning professional orientation and career counseling.

“The gathering in Tirana assembled representatives from governments, employer organizations, and trade unions within the Western Balkans to discuss enhancing living and working conditions, future skills requirements, and the importance of social dialogue in tackling the region’s main challenges,” the statement added.

News