Republic of Northern Macedonia government, employers’ organisations, unions and the International Labour Organisation ( Today, ONP signed the Denje National Work Programme for 20262030, confirming their common commitment to comprehensive economic growth, quality and productive jobs, as well as the most powerful institutions in the labour market.
With the signing of the National Labor Programme 20262030, we confirm our commitment to creating better quality, paid and safer jobs. Our priorities are advancing labor rights, developing skills in line with labour market needs, greater involvement of young people and women, and reducing the informal economy. In partnership with the International Labour Organisation and social partners, we continue with reforms for better working conditions and a stronger economy. The success of this programme will be measured through concrete improvements that workers and companies will feel, because our goal is to make the job a reality for every citizen, said Economy and Labour Minister Besar Durmish.
Designed through trilateral consultations, the programme provides a framework of co-operation between ONP and its trilateral representatives in northern Macedonia. From the Economy Ministry say it is in line with the United Nations Co-operation Framework for Sustainable Development ( U n NSDCF 2026;2030, contributing to the realisation of its strategic priority for stable economy and decent work.
The programme also links labour market reforms with the country’s broader development agenda and with European integration goals.
With mutual commitment and commitment, we can build a more comprehensive, productive and sustainable job market. By working together, we can create quality jobs, strengthen labour market institutions, support the development of stable enterprises and realise fundamental principles and rights at work, said Claire Harasty, director of ONP for Central and Eastern Europe.
The working world in northern Macedonia is changing. Although the country marks continued progress in socioeconomic development, lack of labour, demographic changes and migration, noncompliance between supply and capacity demand, low participation of women and youth in the labour market, informal work and limited productivity continue to pose significant challenges.
The new National Day Labor Program responds to these challenges and focuses on three priority areas: Establishing a potential economic environment through harmonisation of labour legislation and labour safety and health legislation, advancing social dialogue and collective negotiations, as well as supporting small and medium-sized enterprises productive, competitive, innovative and sustainable.
Advancing professional education and skills development by improving professional education systems, training and learning throughout life in order to better respond to the needs of the labour market.
The economic empowerment of women by promoting equal opportunities and eliminating barriers to participation in the job market, including the responsibilities of caring for other people, the gender gap in wages, as well as violence and workplace harassment.