Geneva, 4 June 2026
The Minister of Economy and Labor, Besar Durmishi, addressed the 114th Session of the International Labor Conference today, where he emphasized the Government's commitment to labor market reforms, the modernization of labor legislation, and the strengthening of social dialogue.
"Today, the world of work is facing profound and rapid changes. Demographic trends, technological developments, artificial intelligence, climate challenges and geopolitical developments create new opportunities, but also new risks for workers, employers and national economies," Minister emphasized.
He stressed that the Government remains firmly committed to creating an economy that provides a better standard of living for citizens.
"Our task as policymakers is to ensure that no one is left behind. Therefore, the Government remains committed to creating an economy that generates quality jobs, provides decent working conditions and guarantees a better standard of living for all citizens," said the Minister.
The address emphasized that active employment measures remain among the key policies of the Government.
Referring to the reforms in labor legislation, the Minister pointed out that the goal is to establish a modern and European legal framework that will ensure a balance between the interests of workers and employers.
"We are working on a comprehensive reform of labor legislation. Our goal is to create a modern and European legal system that will protect workers' rights, promote collective bargaining and ensure safe and healthy working conditions," the Minister emphasized.
He also confirmed the country's commitment to international labor standards.
“We are proud that North Macedonia is among the few countries that have ratified all the conventions of the International Labor Organization related to freedom of association and collective bargaining. We see these principles not only as an international obligation, but as the foundation of a democratic and just society,” he said.
The Minister particularly emphasized the role of social dialogue in the creation of economic and social policies.
"We are convinced that no successful reform can be implemented without a strong and sincere social dialogue. As President of the Economic and Social Council, I firmly believe that dialogue is the most effective path to sustainable and balanced solutions," the Minister stressed.
In his address, he also announced the imminent signing of the new Decent Work Programme for the period 2026–2030.
"We are confident that the new Decent Work Programme will be an important tool for supporting reforms, creating more and better jobs and further harmonization with European standards," the Minister said.
At the end of his address, the Minister expressed gratitude to the International Labor Organization for its long-standing support and partnership, emphasizing that North Macedonia will continue to actively contribute to building a fairer, more inclusive and more dignified world of work.
