The need for further improvement of the support system for fit-to-work financial social assistance users was the focus of the conference "Towards sustainable social inclusion - shaping work activation: integrated policies for social inclusion and economic resilience," which gathered key decision-makers, representatives of institutions, and the professional public today. The meeting provided an opportunity to open a constructive dialogue on how to utilize Serbia's human resources better, aiming to strengthen the economy, social cohesion, and demographic resilience.

Participants highlighted that investing in the activation of fit-to-work financial social assistance users should be regarded not as an expense, but as a strategic investment in sustainable development. It was observed that the current scope and accessibility of social assistance may not fully support users in achieving sustainable economic independence, which in some cases can lead to reliance on informal income sources and contribute to the growth of the gray economy.

In response to these challenges, proposals were presented across four priority areas:

• Enhancing the financial social assistance system to provide more effective protection against poverty while encouraging employment;
   
• Strengthening the capacity of centers for social work through the recruitment of additional professional staff;
   
• Establishing a binding framework for cooperation between centers for social work and the National Employment Service;
   
• Expanding the role of local self-government units in designing and implementing labor activation measures tailored to local needs.

While comprehensive improvements to the social protection system are expected to take at least three years to implement fully, the conference emphasized that several measures can be applied immediately. Among these is the adoption of the Rulebook on Cooperation between Centers for Social Work and the National Employment Service, developed within the PRO Program in collaboration with the Republic Institute for Social Protection. The document aims to formalize cooperation between these institutions, ensuring that beneficiaries receive integrated support in finding employment and developing skills that enhance both their economic and social independence.

Participants agreed that a coordinated, multisectoral approach is essential. The recommendations presented provide a strong foundation for further action and continued improvement in this vital area of social policy.

The conference was organized under the “PRO – Local Governance for People and Nature” Program, jointly implemented by UN agencies in Serbia – UNOPS, UNICEF, UNFPA, and UNEP, in cooperation with the Government of Serbia and with financial support from the Government of Switzerland. The activity was carried out in partnership with the Center for Research and Development IDEAS.