Skopje, October 28, 2026
Occupational safety and health are a fundamental right of every worker, and creating a safe, healthy, and dignified working environment remains one of the priorities of the Ministry of Economy and Labour. This was emphasized by the Minister of Economy and Labour, Besar Durmishi, at today’s event marking the European Week for Safety and Health at Work, during which the National Awards for the best-implemented occupational safety and health system were also presented.
"Occupational health and safety are not merely a legal obligation or a matter of meeting prescribed standards. They are a fundamental right of every worker, a matter of human dignity, and a shared responsibility. Our goal is clear: for every worker to have a safe working environment, to be protected from risks, and to return home safe and sound at the end of the workday," stated Minister Durmishi.
In his address, the Minister pointed out that rapid technological development, digitalization, and new ways of organizing work—while offering opportunities for greater productivity and economic growth—also brings new challenges regarding the protection of workers. As he emphasized, particular attention must be paid to psychosocial risks, stress, and the impact of modern work processes on the mental health of employees.
"Our priority is the continuous improvement of the legal framework, the strengthening of prevention, and the creation of conditions in which economic and technological progress are accompanied by higher standards for the protection of workers. We are building a labor market in which safety and health are not an additional obligation, but an integral part of every work process," emphasized Durmishi.
The Minister also emphasized the shared responsibility of institutions, employers, trade unions, inspection services, and the workers themselves in establishing a culture of prevention, while specifically highlighting the role of companies.
"Investing in safe and healthy working conditions should not be viewed as a cost, but rather as a long-term investment in people, in the productivity of companies, and in the competitiveness of our economy. Only a healthy and protected worker can fully realize their potential, and companies that care for their employees lay the foundation for sustainable development," the Minister stated.
During the event, special attention was given to companies that, through their practices, contribute to advancing occupational health and safety standards.
Durmishi expressed satisfaction with the interest shown by companies that applied again this year for the National Award for the Best Implemented Occupational Health and Safety System, emphasizing that their commitment should serve as an encouragement and an example for other employers.
He extended congratulations to the awarded companies and expressed gratitude to the Council for Occupational Health and Safety, the social partners, and all stakeholders who contribute to improving working conditions.
The Ministry of Economy and Labour will continue with activities aimed at improving regulations, raising public awareness, strengthening preventive measures, and enhancing cooperation with social partners, with the goal of ensuring a higher level of protection for the workers.
"Our common goal is not only to fulfill legal obligations, but to create a working environment in which every person feels safe, protected and respected. Economic development has true value only when it goes hand in hand with the protection of the health, safety and dignity of workers," concluded Minister Durmishi.