Workers' Organisations and Social Dialogue in the Western Balkans on the Road to Europe

Social dialogue in the region of Western Balkans is characterised by profound upheavals – societal, political, economic and social, taking place against the backdrop of rapid and far-reaching historical developments. The social partners moreover find themselves continually challenged in their role and self-image, leading to a redefinition of it. The countries in the focus of this research report have for several years now been poised to accede to the EU – at varying degrees of intensity and speed – and this too poses major challenges for workers’ organizations and social dialogue. With the help of authentic experiences and insights from the region, and expertise both academic and practical, this paper sheds light on the numerous facets of social dialogue, reflects on the manifold transformations and provides comprehensive insights into the challenges faced by workers’ organizations in the Western Balkans, past and future. However, it also reflects on the findings from the EZA Special Project in place since 2012 for workers' organizations in the Western Balkans entitled Strengthening Social Dialogue – Shaping European Integration. In addition, the study provides a wealth of suggestions, tips and recommendations for action for workers’ organizations.