Fostering social cohesion in Serbia

Abstract

This chapter provides key policy priorities and suggestions for actions to foster social cohesion in Serbia. The labour market has recovered from the crises of the past decade, which presents opportunities for inclusive growth. Labour market and social protection policies, together, are key tools to address the remaining challenges of high long-term unemployment, low labour market participation among citizens from vulnerable groups and low coverage of social safety nets. Active labour market policies (ALMPs) should play a greater role in supporting youth and persons from vulnerable backgrounds. To that end, ALMPs require adequate funding, increased capacities in the National Employment Service, and greater co-ordination across public and private actors. Fostering integration of citizens from vulnerable groups is a priority objective for Serbia and can be pursued through well-targeted and accessible social assistance support and mechanisms to improve children’s education outcomes in a targeted manner. Ongoing efforts to sustain the integration and coherence of social services are an important step towards more effective provision of the services citizens need to thrive.