Belgrade, Serbia – A second round table meeting was held on September 14, 2023, at the Moskva Hotel, under the aegis of the “New partnerships and opportunities for innovative and sustainable approaches to the social integration of vulnerable groups on the labor market (NoVA)” project.

The meeting focused on two crucial aspects: presenting a comprehensive study on the activation of Financial Social Assistance (FSA) beneficiaries in relation to the European Pillar of Social Rights and bringing to the forefront the firsthand experiences of mentors working in the field.

Žarko Šunderić, from the Center for Social Policy, elucidated the study’s findings, emphasizing the necessity for a comprehensive and innovative approach in empowering vulnerable groups. The study highlighted the need for an inclusive labor market, individualized support, and addressed the challenges posed by the gray economy and informal employment in Serbia.

Mentors from Belgrade, Novi Sad, and Niš shared their ground realities, discussing the challenges in motivating beneficiaries and the success stories that have emerged despite these hurdles. These narratives underscored the importance of personalized support and the potential for positive change in the lives of FSA beneficiaries.

This meeting marked a significant step in understanding the complex landscape of social and labor market integration for vulnerable groups in Serbia. The insights gathered will be instrumental in shaping future strategies and actions under the NoVA project, aligning with the European Pillar of Social Rights’ objectives.