Strong institutional support for EMPOWERED: Ministry of labour backs inclusion and employment of persons with disabilities
The EMPOWERED project continues to gain strong institutional recognition and support at the national level. The Ministry of Labour, Employment, Veteran and Social Affairs of the Republic of Serbia has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the inclusion and employment of persons with disabilities, recognizing the importance of regional cooperation and knowledge exchange within the Western Balkans. This support comes at a key moment, during the EMPOWERED Study Visit Croatia – Slovenia 2026, which brought together representatives of institutions, civil society, and other stakeholders from across the region. The study visit serves as a platform for sharing experiences, learning from good practices, and strengthening cooperation aimed at improving the quality of life and opportunities for persons with disabilities. Čedomila Đurić from the Ministry emphasized the significance of this initiative: “Today we are in Slovenia, where a study visit is taking place within the framework of the EMPOWERED project. Following yesterday’s activities in Croatia, we are returning to Zagreb, completing a two-day regional exchange of experiences. During this study visit, we had the opportunity to explore different approaches and practices from across the region, with the aim of improving the position of persons with disabilities. The focus is on further strengthening their employment opportunities, promoting full social inclusion, and contributing to the reduction of prejudice. This study visit is particularly important as it enables direct exchange of experiences and the identification of good practices that can be applied in the Republic of Serbia. As the Ministry of Labour, Employment, Veteran and Social Affairs of the Republic of Serbia, we will continue to provide ongoing support through employment measures, subsidies, upskilling and reskilling programs, as well as other forms of assistance. Our doors remain open for cooperation – through partnership and dialogue, you can always count on our support in improving the position of persons with disabilities and ensuring their full inclusion in society.” The EMPOWERED project, implemented by ASB South East Europe in partnership with organizations across the Western Balkans, and supported by Bundesministerium für wirtschaftliche Zusammenarbeit und Entwicklung (BMZ), continues to create opportunities for meaningful exchange, policy improvement, and concrete actions that contribute to more inclusive societies across the region.