The conference, titled “Enhancing Quality of Life and Work through Effective Social Dialogue,” organized by the Eurofound, the European Training Foundation (ETF), and the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), brought together government officials, trade union representatives, employer organizations, and European Union institutions to explore how stronger social dialogue mechanisms can address the region’s evolving socio-economic challenges. 

Highlighting the transformative potential of structured and inclusive dialogue, Mr. Sibbel from the ILO noted that “Tripartite social dialogue promotes participatory democracy by ensuring the involvement of employers’ and workers’ organizations in socio-economic development decisions that directly affect them. The tripartite partners need to constantly ensure though that social dialogue is inclusive, that they are well-informed, and take responsibility for the implementation of social dialogue outcomes.”

The Employment and Social Affairs Platform 3 (ESAP 3) project funded by the EU and implemented by the ILO is an example of work to strengthen social dialogue. ESAP 3 works directly with national social dialogue institutions—such as Economic and Social Councils,—and workers’ and employers’ organizations ensuring that the voices of workers, employers, and governments are systematically involved in shaping labour market and socio-economic policies. The project provides technical assistance to strengthen the rules, procedures, and mandates of tripartite bodies; and support for aligning national frameworks with EU social acquis, promoting democratic standards of participation and transparency. This reinforces participatory democracy by embedding structured consultation mechanisms into national governance.

Additionally, the project delivers targeted training and capacity-building to trade unions and employers’ organizations in the region. This ensures that social partners are well-informed about national, regional and international policy developments; equipped to analyze legislative proposals and contribute meaningfully to public debates; skilled in negotiation, data interpretation, and policy advocacy. By investing in social partners’ capabilities, ESAP 3 helps them take responsibility for constructive participation and implementation of dialogue outcomes.

Finally, through regional conferences, cross-border workshops, and policy dialogues, the ESAP 3 facilitates  exchange of good practices across Western Balkan countries and European Unions member states; peer learning from EU member states; and joint commitments to reform and modernization of social dialogue. This contributes to a regional culture of participatory governance, aligned with EU accession goals and international labour standards.