Speech by RCC Secretary General at the Conference on Labour Migration: Supporting Economic Growth in the Western Balkans

15 May 2025 | SPEECH

RCC Secretary General opened Amer Kapetanovic opened High-level Conference on Labour Migration: Supporting Economic Growth in the Western Balkans, held in Budva, Montenegro on 15 May 2025.

Addressing the urgent need for a collaborative transition and the Western Balkans' need to shift from fragmented, reactive migration policies to a coordinated, strategic framework for labour mobility that effectively balances retaining local talent with attracting ethical, well-managed labour immigration to tackle workforce shortages and drive regional growth and EU integration, Kapetanovic said: “Labour migration is no longer something we can plan for tomorrow, it is already reshaping our societies today. In just five years, the number of work permits issued to foreign workers in the Western Balkans has more than doubled, from 46,000 in 2018 to over 100,000 in 2023. At the same time, employers across the region are struggling to fill vacancies, while our own citizens remain in demand abroad. This dual reality calls for smart, inclusive, and human-centred policies. At RCC, we believe migration done right can bridge skills gaps, energise our economies, and restore dignity to work. That’s why we are investing in regional frameworks that align with EU standards, protect workers’ rights, and give people, whether they were born here or just arrived, a fair chance to build a life."

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