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23. February 2026.
Through the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes, two proceedings initiated on the grounds of workplace harassment have been successfully concluded. In both cases, the parties opted for a peaceful resolution and concluded agreements, thereby creating the conditions for regulating their mutual relations and continuing their professional cooperation.
The proceedings were conducted by arbitrator Živko Kulić, whose professional and impartial management of the process, through several hearings, enabled constructive dialogue between the parties and contributed to reaching an amicable settlement, with the aim of normalizing relations and ensuring the smooth functioning of the work process.
In the case concerning the company Alma Quattro d.o.o. Belgrade, after three hearings the parties concluded an agreement by which they committed themselves to responsible and professional conduct in an atmosphere of mutual respect and cooperation. The employer undertook to organize work in a manner that ensures conditions for the uninterrupted performance of duties, as well as to contribute to eliminating the causes of misunderstandings that led to the initiation of the proceedings.
In the second case, conducted within a state authority, the Administration for the Enforcement of Criminal Sanctions, after four hearings the parties reached an agreement regulating the manner of mutual communication, respect for professional standards, and the rules of conduct within the work process, with the aim of preserving stable and functional relations within the service.
Both the private company and the state authority demonstrated a high level of responsibility and readiness to resolve disputes in a constructive manner, in cooperation with employees and with the support of the Agency, thereby providing an example of good practice in regulating labour relations and fostering a professional working environment.
23. February 2026.
In the first two months of this year, more than 700 procedures for the peaceful settlement of individual labour disputes have been initiated before the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes by employees and the management of JPKP “Lazarevac”. The decision to initiate the procedure before the Agency represents an example of a constructive approach and the willingness of both parties to resolve disputed issues without initiating court proceedings.
Opting for this mechanism is in line with the recommendation of the Government of the Republic of Serbia that beneficiaries of public funds should give priority to the peaceful settlement of labour disputes in order to avoid the high costs and lengthy duration of court procedures.
So far, a total of 721 procedures have been initiated, of which 435 were submitted through joint proposals of the parties, while 286 were submitted through individual proposals. According to announcements by representatives of employees and the employer, it is expected that additional proposals will be submitted in the coming period, which further confirms the trust in the work of the Agency.
This case clearly demonstrates that the peaceful settlement of labour disputes represents a fast, efficient and cost-effective way of protecting rights, as arbitral decisions that have the legal force of a final court judgment can be reached within a relatively short period of time—up to 30 days. At the same time, such an approach contributes to preserving stable labour relations and strengthening social dialogue.
20. January 2026.
The collective labor dispute at the employer “MTU Maintenance Serbia d.o.o.” from Nova Pazova was successfully resolved through the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes. The procedure was initiated at the proposal of the United Branch Trade Unions “Nezavisnost” (UGS “Nezavisnost”), following several months of negotiations between the employer and the trade union that had not resulted in mutually acceptable outcomes. After the Agency became involved, three hearings were held with representatives of the parties to the dispute, after which the acting conciliator, Assistant Professor Dr. Aleksandar Antić, issued a Recommendation aimed at overcoming the disputed issues and establishing more stable labor relations.
Although the Recommendation was not adopted by a Conciliation Committee but by the acting conciliator, the employer “MTU Maintenance Serbia d.o.o.” accepted the conciliator’s suggestions and amended the provisions of its Rulebook on Employment. In doing so, the employer demonstrated readiness for further dialogue and a constructive approach to finding sustainable and mutually acceptable solutions.
This procedure once again confirmed that mechanisms for the peaceful settlement of labor disputes represent an effective and reliable way to strengthen social dialogue and stable relations between employers and employees, both in the public and private sectors.
30. December 2025.
Selected Conciliators and Arbitrators
Following the public call for the selection of conciliators and arbitrators published in the Official Gazette of the Republic of Serbia, No. 101/2025 of 14 November 2025, for which the deadline for submitting applications expired on 22 November, a total of 65 timely applications were received.
The Selection Commission for Conciliators and Arbitrators, established upon the proposal of the Socio-Economic Council of the Republic of Serbia and composed of representatives of representative trade unions – the Confederation of Autonomous Trade Unions of Serbia and the United Branch Trade Unions “Nezavisnost”, the Union of Employers of Serbia, and representatives of the Government of the Republic of Serbia – was tasked with adopting a decision and selecting conciliators and arbitrators.
By decision of the Commission, the following candidates were selected:
Selected Candidates for Conciliators:
Selected Candidates for Arbitrators:
On this occasion, the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes expresses its gratitude to all candidates for their interest and for applying to the public call for the selection of conciliators and arbitrators. Based on the decision of the Commission, the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes will adopt a Decision on the entry of the selected candidates into the Register of Conciliators and Arbitrators, which will be published in the Official Gazette of the Republic of Serbia in due course.
16. December 2025.
Organized by the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes, the second training session for conciliators and arbitrators in the anniversary year marking 20 years of the Agency’s work was held on 12 December 2025 at the premises of the National Academy for Public Administration. The event was dedicated to the further improvement of the practice of the peaceful settlement of labor disputes, as well as to examining the psychological aspects of communication and working with challenging counterparts. For the first time, the training was also attended by representatives of agencies and bodies for the peaceful settlement of labor disputes from the region, namely Montenegro, North Macedonia, and the Republic of Srpska (Bosnia and Herzegovina).
The event brought together numerous experts in the fields of labor law and psychology, who, through lectures and discussions, addressed contemporary challenges in procedures for the peaceful settlement of labor disputes, with particular emphasis on building trust, managing resistance, and encouraging constructive dialogue.
As part of the formal opening ceremony, recognition awards were presented to distinguished conciliators and arbitrators with many years of experience, in acknowledgment of their continuous contribution to the development of the system of the peaceful settlement of labor disputes and the improvement of labor relations.
Recognition awards were presented to the following conciliators and arbitrators: Slađana Andrić, Radovan Bezbradica, Miljko Valjarević, Draško Veličković, Slađana Gligorić, Srđan Dobrica, Ružica Erceg, Nataša Zavođa, Dejana Spasojević Ivančić, Danka Jaćimović, Senad Jašarević, Predrag Jovanović, Igor Kokanović, Vera Kondić, Danijela Koštan Kovačević, Žarko Kovačević, Vladan Kovačević, Živko Kulić, Ankica Kurjački, Jasna Lazović, Vladimir Matić, Dragana Miletić, Katarina Nikolić, Goran Obradović, Milun Petković, Predrag Petrović, Milica Radivojević, Zorica Radović, Zoran Radulović, Danilo Rončević, Radmila Simović, Vesna Stojanović, Jelena Stojiljković, Predrag Trifunović, Bojan Urdarević, Verica Hrnčjar, Nada Crnja, Maja Čudomirović, and Aleksandra Ćalić Bošković.
Following the formal part of the event, a panel discussion was held. The first panel focused on current case law in the field of labor disputes, with the participation of judges from the Constitutional Court, appellate courts, and the High Court in Belgrade. The second panel was dedicated to the topic “The Challenge of Resistance: The Psychology of Relationships and the Possibility of Dialogue,” during which participants discussed psychological mechanisms influencing communication and conflict in labor relations, as well as practical techniques and tools for overcoming these challenges in practice.
12. December 2025.
At the Public Utility Company “Gradsko stambeno” Belgrade, following a request submitted by the company’s trade union organization, a collective labor dispute concerning amendments and supplements to the collective agreement was successfully concluded. Given that “Gradsko stambeno” performs activities of general interest, the Agency initiated the procedure ex officio, in accordance with the law, with the aim of enabling dialogue between the parties. Miljko Valjarević was appointed as the acting conciliator.
At the first hearing, a Conciliation Committee was established, composed of representatives of both parties to the dispute and the acting conciliator. Through discussions and the exchange of views, with the support of the conciliator, conditions were created for the continuation of social dialogue.
At its fourth hearing, the Conciliation Committee adopted a recommendation that the parties initiate negotiations on amendments and supplements to the collective agreement, with the aim of finding a joint and sustainable solution.
This procedure once again confirmed that mechanisms for the peaceful settlement of labor disputes contribute to the preservation of industrial peace and the stable functioning of public services of importance to citizens.
11. December 2025.
The Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes once again this year hosted the traditional visit of final-year students of the Faculty of Law of the University of Belgrade, who attend the Labor Law course. The visit took place on 10 December 2025 at the Serbian–Korean Information and Access Center (SKIP Center), within the framework of the Cooperation Agreement between the Agency and the Faculty of Law. The students were accompanied by Teaching Assistant Mina Kuzminac.
The event was opened by the Director of the Agency, Dr. Ivica Lazović, who emphasized the importance of the long-standing cooperation with the Faculty of Law, as well as the role of the Agency in bringing the institute of the peaceful settlement of labor disputes closer to future legal professionals. He underlined that the Agency is open to students who wish to become directly acquainted with the work of this institution through professional and scientific papers, as well as through internships. On that occasion, he presented the development of the institute of the peaceful settlement of labor disputes in the Republic of Serbia, its place in contemporary legal systems, and the key results achieved by the Agency so far, with an overview of challenges and plans for the future.
In the continuation of the program, Dragana Andonovska, Head of the Group for Legal and Professional Affairs, and Jelena Golubović, Advisor at the Agency, spoke about the Agency’s competences, fundamental principles and procedures, as well as statistical indicators and examples from its extensive practice. Special emphasis was placed on digitalization and digital transformation processes as an important step toward more efficient, accessible, and transparent resolution of labor disputes. Through concrete examples, it was demonstrated that even the most complex labor disputes can be successfully resolved through conciliation, provided there is willingness on the part of the parties to engage in dialogue and compromise.
The visit concluded with an open and interactive discussion with the students, who actively participated, asked questions, and shared their observations and views on the application of alternative methods for resolving labor disputes in the Republic of Serbia. This exchange of opinions once again confirmed the importance of linking theoretical knowledge with practical experience in the education of future legal professionals.
09. December 2025.
The delegation of the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes paid a study visit to the Swedish National Mediation Office in Stockholm on 4 December 2025. The visit was organised with the aim of becoming acquainted with the Swedish model of work, exchanging experiences, and highlighting good practices that may contribute to the further development of the Agency’s capacities, as well as to the improvement of the system of peaceful settlement of labour disputes in the Republic of Serbia. During the visit, the Director of the Agency, Dr Ivica Lazović, presented a Certificate of Appreciation to the Swedish National Mediation Office as a token of recognition for the successful cooperation to date and for its support in the development of the practice of peaceful labour dispute resolution.
The Swedish National Mediation Office was selected as a partner due to its unique and highly successful experience in the field of labour dispute prevention, conciliation, collective bargaining, as well as its well-established model of tripartism and a high level of coordination among social partners.
The visit began with a meeting with the Director General of the Institute, Ms Irene Wennemo, and Legal Adviser Sofie Malmkvist, who presented the organisation, competencies, and key elements of the Swedish labour market model. The introductory session focused on the functioning of the labour dispute prevention system and conciliation mechanisms in cases where disputes arise, the importance of mediator independence, and the role of the Institute in maintaining stable industrial relations throughout the country.
The programme continued with a presentation by Mr Per Ewaldsson, Senior Legal Adviser, who provided a detailed overview of the legal framework for the peaceful settlement of labour disputes in Sweden. The discussion covered fundamental principles, the competencies of conciliators, and response mechanisms in cases of collective disputes, with reference to similarities and differences in comparison with the Serbian legal system.
Following the presentation of the legal framework, a session dedicated to practical examples was held, led by Ms Gunilla Runnquist, a conciliator with extensive professional experience, and Mr Per Ewaldsson. The delegation had the opportunity to become familiar with concrete procedures, the working methodology of Swedish conciliators, the challenges they face, communication techniques used in working with the parties to a dispute, and the tools applied in everyday practice.
Particular attention was drawn to the presentation on wage statistics, delivered by Mr John Ekberg, Director of Official Wage and Salary Statistics at the Institute, together with Statistician Mr Peter Beijron and Economist Mr Simon Thorstensson. The presentation covered existing statistical data, data collection and processing procedures, and the application of this information in collective bargaining processes, which is of particular importance when considering the enhancement of the Agency’s analytical capacities.
In the afternoon, a highly significant session was held on labour market organisation and collective agreements, which provided concrete guidance for possible improvements in the work of the Agency. Special emphasis was placed on the manner in which the Swedish National Mediation Office maintains comprehensive records of all collective agreements in the country, a practice that has proven to be a key instrument in supporting stable social dialogue and effective collective bargaining. Ms Anna Fransson, Senior Economist, together with Mr Thomas Ljunglöf and Ms Sofie Malmkvist, presented the role of the Institute in analysing collective agreements, mechanisms for monitoring collective agreements, and models that may serve as valuable reference points for strengthening institutional capacities in Serbia.
Members of the delegation included the Director of the Agency, Dr Ivica Lazović, who introduced the hosts to the Agency’s practice and organisational structure, Dragana Andonovska, Head of the Legal Affairs Unit, and Agency advisers Miloš Prokić and Jelena Golubović.
This study visit represents an important step in strengthening cooperation with Swedish institutions and provides a solid foundation for further enhancing the capacities of the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes. The experiences gained and practices exchanged will be of great importance for the continued development of labour dispute prevention systems, conciliation processes, and the promotion of a culture of social dialogue in the Republic of Serbia.
21. October 2025.
At the ceremony marking the 15th anniversary of the Public Institution Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes of Banja Luka, Republic of Srpska (BiH), held on Friday, 17 October 2025, the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes received a Certificate of Appreciation for the successful cooperation to date.
The Certificate was received on behalf of the Agency by its Director, Dr Ivica Lazović, who also had the honour of addressing the participants at the opening of the event. In addition to the representatives of the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes, the event in Banja Luka was attended by representatives of the Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes of Montenegro, the Minister of Labour and Veterans and Disabled Protection of the Republic of Srpska, Mr Danijel Egić, the Minister of Justice of the Republic of Srpska, Mr Goran Selak, representatives of trade unions and employers, as well as numerous conciliators and arbitrators.
In his opening remarks, Dr Lazović emphasized the importance of continuous cooperation and exchange of experiences between the “sister” agencies from Serbia, the Republic of Srpska (BiH), and Montenegro. “Our institutions are organized according to the same model, with only minor differences in the regulatory framework, which means that the challenges we face are also similar,” he noted. “There is very close cooperation between our institutions on a daily basis, allowing us to learn from each other through consultations and the exchange of practices, and to perform our work in the most efficient way possible,” he added. Dr Lazović also underlined that networking of institutions dealing with the peaceful settlement of labour disputes at the Western Balkan and European levels is of great importance, reminding the audience of the experiences exchanged during this year’s international conferences held in Geneva and Leuven.
The event continued with a roundtable discussion attended by the Agency’s Director, Dr Ivica Lazović, Agency Advisors Mr Miloš Prokić and Ms Jelena Golubović, representatives of the agencies from Montenegro and the Republic of Srpska (BiH), representatives of the relevant ministry, employers, trade unions, and conciliators and arbitrators from the Republic of Srpska (BiH). The participants discussed current challenges in implementing the mechanisms of peaceful settlement of labour disputes, exchanged practical experiences, and agreed on recommendations for further improvement.
13. October 2025.
The Republic Agency for Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes participated in the XXVII International Scientific and Professional Conference of the Association for Labour Law and Social Security of the Republic of Serbia, held from 8 to 11 October 2025 at Zlatibor.
This year’s Conference brought together numerous distinguished experts in the field of labour law and social security from Serbia and the region, representatives of state institutions, trade unions, employers, academia, and international organizations, to discuss the topic “Labour Law in New Circumstances: Challenges and Solutions.”
At the ceremonial opening, the Director of the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes, Dr Ivica Lazović, welcomed the participants and expressed his satisfaction with the continuously growing number of attendees each year. In his opening remarks, he emphasized that changes in labour relations are both inevitable and constant, while the individual worker remains the one most exposed to pressure and challenges.
In addition to Dr Lazović, the participants were also addressed by Professor Dr Bojan Urdarević, President of the Association for Labour Law and Social Security, Professor Dr Živko Kulić, conciliator and arbitrator of the Agency, and Dr Jovan Protić, National Coordinator of the International Labour Organization in Belgrade.
In the working part of the Conference, Dr Ivica Lazović presented a paper titled “Transnationalization of Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes – a Challenge for the Future,” highlighting the importance of cross-border cooperation between institutions dealing with alternative labour dispute resolution, as well as the need to improve these practices in line with European standards and new conditions in which labour relations are developing.
The Agency also actively participated in a roundtable discussion entitled “Resolution of Individual and Collective Labour Disputes,” which brought together judges, professors, conciliators, and arbitrators to address current challenges in practice and propose improvements to peaceful dispute resolution procedures.
During the panel “The State of Social Dialogue and Collective Bargaining in Serbia,” the Agency’s Director, Dr Ivica Lazović, emphasized the need to strengthen social dialogue, stressing that social partners must actively cooperate and that the Agency is always ready to provide expert support. At the panel “Labour Legislation in the Function of Sustainable Business and Economic Growth,” which gathered representatives of employers and the Agency, Dr Lazović spoke about the necessity for the private sector to increasingly resort to peaceful methods of resolving labour disputes.
Throughout the three-day Conference, numerous topics of importance for labour legislation were discussed — from the new Labour Law and the state of social dialogue in Serbia to challenges in exercising the right to strike, the status of freelancers, flexible forms of work, workers’ rights on digital platforms, and the impact of artificial intelligence on labour relations.
It was concluded that such gatherings are of exceptional importance for the exchange of knowledge and experience and for creating an environment in which labour law reforms will be based on a balance between economic efficiency and social justice.
07. October 2025.
The Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes of Montenegro marked its 15th anniversary with a ceremony held on 1 October 2025 in Podgorica, attended by guests from the region, representatives of institutions, social partners, as well as conciliators and arbitrators.
During the ceremony, the Director of the Agency, Enesa Rastoder, presented plaques of appreciation to individuals who have contributed through their engagement to the improvement of the system of peaceful settlement of labour disputes in Montenegro.
One of the recipients of the award was Dr Ivica Lazović, Director of the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes, who on that occasion highlighted that peaceful settlement of labour disputes is gaining increasing importance globally. He emphasized that the countries of the former Yugoslavia share similar legal systems, practices, and challenges, which makes cooperation between Serbia, Montenegro, and the Republic of Srpska particularly valuable.
As part of this important event, the regular annual training for conciliators and arbitrators of Montenegro was also held. The lectures were delivered by Professor Dr Bojan Urdarević and Professor Dr Senad Jašarević, long-standing conciliators and arbitrators of the Republic Agency. They shared with their colleagues both academic and practical experiences in the field of labour disputes.
Director Dr Ivica Lazović also presented to the participants the conclusions from the Tripartite Technical Meeting “Access to Justice in Labour Matters: Prevention and Resolution of Labour Disputes”, held earlier this year in Geneva, which represents a milestone in international efforts aimed at preventing labour disputes.
The event reaffirmed the importance of regional cooperation, given that the countries of the former Yugoslavia are linked by similar legal systems, practices, and challenges in their work. At the same time, it highlighted the importance of continuous education of conciliators and arbitrators as a prerequisite for further development of peaceful dispute resolution mechanisms, with the goal of strengthening social dialogue and ensuring stable labour relations.
03. October 2025.
With the conciliation of the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes, the strike at Serbia and Montenegro Air Traffic Services – SMATSA d.o.o. Belgrade was successfully brought to an end. The Agency had been informed by SMATSA that the Air Traffic Controllers’ Union had announced a strike, and given the nature of the employer’s activities, the procedure was, in accordance with the Law, initiated ex officio.
Miljko Valjarević was appointed as the acting conciliator. At the very first hearing, a Conciliation Board was formed, comprising representatives of both parties and the conciliator. Through a series of hearings, in an atmosphere of dialogue and with the support of the conciliator, the parties gradually narrowed their differences and reached a compromise solution. As a result, a Joint Recommendation was signed, specifying the ways in which the disputed issues would be resolved.
This case once again confirmed that proceedings before the Agency enable the quick, efficient, and institutional resolution of labor disputes, ensuring stability and the uninterrupted functioning of services of vital public interest.
13. August 2025.
Through the mediation of the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes, a collective labor dispute at the frozen food company Frikom d.o.o. was successfully resolved. The dispute was initiated ex officio, in accordance with the Law, following the strike announcement by the Independent Trade Union of Frikom.
Bojana Stanić was appointed as the acting conciliator. At the very first hearing, she formed a Conciliation Board composed of representatives of both parties and the conciliator herself. A total of five hearings were held, during which the parties demonstrated a willingness to overcome their disagreements and bring their positions closer together.
The procedure was concluded with the signing of a Joint Recommendation on the peaceful settlement of the collective labor dispute, which set out in detail the ways in which the dispute would be resolved.
The employer and employees of Frikom d.o.o. thus provided an example of readiness for social dialogue, all with the aim of finding compromise solutions through the process of peaceful dispute resolution.
11. July 2025.
At the invitation of the European Commission, the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes participated in the conference titled “Mutual Learning on Preventive and Curative Mediation/Conciliation in Collective Labour Disputes: Exchange of National Practices and Reflections on a Transnational Dimension”, held on July 10–11, 2025, in Leuven, Belgium. This two-day seminar brought together representatives of relevant institutions from 17 European countries and is part of a series of events aimed at improving labour relations and social dialogue through mutual exchange of practices.
Participants had the opportunity to share experiences, knowledge, and challenges they face in collective dispute resolution through interactive presentations and workshops. The seminar explored approaches to peaceful labour dispute resolution in different countries, success factors, limitations and challenges in implementing conciliation and mediation, the skills and competencies of modern conciliators, as well as mechanisms for mediation at the transnational level. Special attention was given to the development of a virtual learning platform to support the further advancement of the practice.
It is of great importance for the Agency to have been recognised as an equal partner in this important topic and to be included in a joint dialogue with institutions that have a long-standing tradition in peaceful labour dispute resolution. During the conference, the Agency’s representatives actively participated in all working groups and discussions, sharing national specificities and practical experiences from Serbia.
This participation marks another step forward in strengthening the position of the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes on the European map of institutions that promote dialogue and the peaceful resolution of collective labour disputes.
30. May 2025.
In May 2025, two procedures for the peaceful settlement of collective labour disputes were successfully concluded at the Aranđelovac Health Centre, representing a good practice example in the application of the peaceful dispute resolution mechanism within a healthcare institution.
The first procedure concerned the implementation of Article 105 of the Special Collective Agreement for Employees in Healthcare, specifically regarding the provision of appropriate New Year gifts for employees' children up to the age of 15. The procedure was initiated at the proposal of the United Trade Unions of Serbia “Sloga” – the Health and Social Care Union, with the employer’s consent. The process was led by Professor Dr Sanja Škorić, a conciliator of the Agency. Following two sessions, the parties reached a consensus and adopted a joint recommendation. This recommendation, in addition to the specific issue, also regulated how this right would be exercised by all employees, regardless of their type of employment.
The second procedure related to the application of the collective agreement in the part concerning the adoption and implementation of the Risk Assessment Act. It was initiated ex officio, pursuant to Article 18 of the Law, in accordance with the employer’s obligation to participate in peaceful dispute resolution in activities of general interest. The process was led by conciliator Milena Tasić, with the conciliation board comprising representatives of several trade union organisations within the Aranđelovac Health Centre, as well as employer representatives. Three sessions were held in this procedure, after which a recommendation was adopted, defining full compliance with the provisions of the Special Collective Agreement relating to the participation of representative trade unions in the work of the Management Board, in risk assessment processes, and in informing and preparing documentation relevant to employees. Special emphasis was placed on ensuring transparency in the risk assessment procedure and cooperation with the external provider of the assessment, in line with regulations and internal policies.
Based on both recommendations, Agreements on the Peaceful Settlement of Collective Labour Disputes were concluded, thereby formally completing the procedures.
Both procedures were concluded in the spirit of social dialogue, with active participation from the parties and professional conciliation by the Agency’s conciliators. The resulting recommendations represent good practice in the application of the peaceful settlement mechanism and contribute to improving labour relations and respecting collective agreements in healthcare institutions.
It is particularly noteworthy that two separate procedures were conducted simultaneously within the same institution, positioning the Aranđelovac Health Centre as a responsible and constructive employer, willing to cooperate with social partners and act in accordance with the law and good practice.
21. May 2025.
At the invitation of the European Commission, the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes took part in a knowledge-sharing seminar titled “Structured Dialogue for Collective Bargaining and Collective Agreements”, held in Larnaca, Cyprus, from 19 to 20 May 2025. The seminar brought together representatives of institutions from 13 EU Member States and Serbia, representatives of the European Commission, social partners from the host country, as well as social partners at the European Union level.
During the two-day seminar, the Agency had the opportunity to present its work and achievements, with particular emphasis on the role and potential involvement of conciliators in the process of drafting collective agreements. We highlighted the activities our institution carries out in cooperation with social partners and the ILO, aimed at promoting the importance of collective bargaining in Serbia.
The seminar provided an excellent opportunity for the exchange of knowledge and experiences with institutions and social partners from other European countries. Despite differing traditions and models of social dialogue, it became clear that all participating countries face similar challenges: a decline in collective bargaining coverage, decreasing trade union and employers’ association membership, decentralisation of bargaining from sectoral to enterprise level, as well as fragmentation and a lack of interest from certain employers.
Special attention was devoted to ways of strengthening the capacities of social partners, adapting legislative frameworks to new labour market conditions, and reinforcing institutions that support social dialogue. EU initiatives were presented, such as the Pact for Social Dialogue, new regulatory frameworks, and various mechanisms of financial support, including funding from the European Social Fund.
It was concluded that continuous investment in capacity-building and the strengthening of the role of conciliators and arbitrators is essential, as is the creation of a supportive legal and institutional framework for collective bargaining.
The Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes will continue to actively engage in these processes and to translate best practices into the domestic context.
12. May 2025.
At the company “Dijamant” LLC from Zrenjanin, the process of peaceful settlement of a collective labour dispute has been successfully concluded, thanks to the conciliation facilitated by the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes.
The dispute was initiated by the Trade Union Organisation of the Autonomous Trade Union of “Dijamant” JSC, due to the need to amend the collective agreement. The employer agreed to resolve the dispute through peaceful means, and the other representative trade union in the company – the Trade Union of “Dijamant” LLC – also took part in the process.
In accordance with the law, a conciliation board was established, comprising representatives of both parties to the dispute. Jasmina Čuturilo acted as the conciliator and chair of the board. After two sessions held in a constructive atmosphere, an agreement was reached on 29 April 2025, and the wording of a joint recommendation on the method of amending the collective agreement was harmonised.
The recommendation provides detailed regulation of the amendments to the provisions of the agreement concerning workers’ rights – from paid leave and minimum coefficients for wage calculation to the amount of the base salary. In addition, the deletion of certain provisions and the introduction of new ones were agreed, in line with the needs and realistic possibilities of both employees and the employer.
This procedure represents yet another example of good practice in the peaceful resolution of collective disputes in Serbia, and serves as proof that social dialogue – with the support of the Agency – is not only possible, but also highly effective when both sides show willingness to cooperate.
04. April 2025.
As part of the celebration of 20 years of work of the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes, a significant event was held on April 4, 2025, at the premises of the National Bank of Serbia. The event brought together an international conference, an introductory training for newly appointed conciliators and arbitrators, and the first interactive training session.
The event was officially opened by the Director of the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes, Dr Ivica Lazović, who presented the Agency’s achievements and the challenges it has faced. He emphasized the importance of promoting peaceful labour dispute resolution as a mechanism for achieving fair outcomes in a fast and efficient manner.
The programme included the presentation of awards to institutions and organizations that have made a significant contribution to the development of peaceful dispute resolution in Serbia. Agency plaques were awarded to the Ministry of Labour, Employment, Veteran and Social Affairs; Acting Director of the Occupational Safety and Health Directorate Nikola Banjac; the Employers’ Union of Serbia, represented by President Miloš Nenezić; the Confederation of Autonomous Trade Unions of Serbia, represented by Vice President Duško Vuković; the UGS “Nezavisnost” Confederation, represented by President Čedanka Andrić; the Association for Labour Law and Social Insurance of Serbia, represented by Vice President Professor Dr Senad Jašarević; and the Initiative for Development and Cooperation, represented by Director Miodrag Nedeljković.
A key highlight of the event was the exceptional lecture by Professor Dr Kostas Papadimitriou, professor at the Faculty of Law, University of Athens, and former President of the Greek Organisation for Mediation and Arbitration (OMED). Professor Papadimitriou shared valuable experiences from Greece, emphasizing the importance of social dialogue and the role of peaceful dispute resolution in preserving stable labour relations.
The event continued with two panel discussions dedicated to conciliation and arbitration. Experienced conciliators and arbitrators shared their practical insights and highlighted the key steps in peaceful dispute resolution procedures. The panel Conciliation in Practice featured Professor Dr Senad Jašarević, Miljko Valjarević, and Ružica Erceg, while the panel Arbitration in Practice included Srdjan Dobrica, Slađana Andrić, and Sanja Stanišić. Both panels were moderated by Jovana Spaić Erdeljan, coordinator at the ILO. These discussions were particularly valuable for the newly appointed conciliators and arbitrators, providing them with real-world examples and practical advice on handling procedures and potential challenges.
Participants also had the opportunity to attend a lecture by Milena Tasić titled Conciliation and Mediation in Labour Disputes – Conflict Management Approaches and Mediator Skills, based on training delivered by the ILO Centre in Turin.
With this event, the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes continues to celebrate its important anniversary while strengthening cooperation with domestic and international partners to enhance social dialogue and foster fairer labour relations.
31. March 2025.
At the premises of the General Hospital in Gornji Milanovac, an agreement was signed resolving a collective labour dispute between the hospital and the “Sloga” Health and Social Care Trade Union. The agreement was successfully reached through the conciliation of the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes, whose professional involvement facilitated constructive dialogue and a fair solution for both parties.
The conciliation procedure was initiated by the trade union, with the consent of the hospital management, and Professor Dr Dejan Logarušić—listed in the Register of Conciliators and Arbitrators of the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes—was appointed as the acting conciliator. A Conciliation Board was formed, consisting of representatives of both parties and the conciliator, with the goal of bringing positions closer and reaching a mutually acceptable solution.
The agreement established measures aimed at improving working conditions for employees, including enhanced communication between employer and employees, and a more precise application of the collective agreement, which will positively impact employee well-being. One specific provision of the agreement allows all children of hospital employees up to the age of 15 to receive a New Year’s gift. This decision represents a significant step towards improving the working environment and demonstrates the hospital management's care not only for the professional duties of employees but also for their families.
This procedure confirmed that constructive dialogue is the most effective way to resolve labour disputes, contributing to the preservation of social peace and the improvement of labour relations. The successful resolution of this dispute sets a positive example for other healthcare institutions in Serbia facing similar challenges, highlighting the importance of cooperation and peaceful conflict resolution for mutual progress.
25. March 2025.
The Republic Agency for Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes has once again demonstrated that it is a reliable institution for all those who believe they are exposed to workplace mobbing. In a recent case initiated by a joint proposal from a faculty of the University of Belgrade and one of its employees, a mutually satisfactory settlement was reached.
The case was conducted in a closed procedure, with Slađana Andrić appointed as the arbitrator. During the process, the arbitrator held both joint and individual meetings with the parties, enabling a thorough and constructive resolution of all contentious issues.
Both parties showed a high level of responsibility and dedication in seeking a resolution. Through the proceedings, they were able to clarify communication misunderstandings and agree on all disputed matters. The agreement has created the foundation for a pleasant and productive working environment, free of interpersonal conflicts.
This case is yet another example that confirms the Agency's role as a trustworthy institution for resolving workplace mobbing cases, offering an effective alternative to lengthy court proceedings and enforcement of the Law on the Prevention of Harassment at Work.
25. March 2025.
The collective labour dispute between the Union of Autonomous Trade Unions of the City of Pančevo and the City Administration of Pančevo, regarding the initiation of negotiations for the conclusion of a collective agreement, resulted in the beginning of negotiations and was successfully resolved through the conciliation of the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes.
The procedure was initiated at the proposal of the Union of Autonomous Trade Unions of the City of Pančevo, and the Agency’s Director appointed Mina Nikolić as the conciliator ex officio. At the first hearing, she formed a Conciliation Board with representatives from both parties and issued a recommendation that laid the foundation for further progress in resolving the dispute and initiating dialogue between the parties.
This outcome highlights the importance of social dialogue and demonstrates that, through constructive cooperation and a well-managed process, disputes can be resolved peacefully. Choosing peaceful dispute resolution contributed to preserving social peace and maintaining good relations, emphasizing the benefits of dialogue in resolving labour conflicts.
The parties will continue negotiations in good faith to further improve relations and reach optimal solutions.
10. March 2025.
From March 4 to 6, 2025, a two-day training session for experienced conciliators and arbitrators of the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes was held in Sokobanja. This training, organized with the support of the International Labour Organization (ILO), in partnership with the EU Delegation in Serbia and the German Cooperation in Serbia (GIZ), aimed to further strengthen the capacities and competencies of conciliators and arbitrators in Serbia.
The first day of training focused on the Irish system of labour dispute resolution and the role of the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC). Participants were introduced to the legislative framework, the principle of voluntariness, industrial relations, and the right to strike, as well as the similarities and differences between the Irish and Serbian systems. WRC representatives presented their organization and services, with a special emphasis on the role of conciliators in collective disputes. Through case studies, specific examples from practice were analyzed, with particular attention given to collective agreements, their implementation, and compliance with labour legislation. This part of the training facilitated experience exchange and discussions on improving collective bargaining in Serbia.
The final day of training was dedicated to integrating internal grievance mechanisms into collective bargaining. Participants discussed the legal framework at both domestic and international levels, as well as the benefits of these mechanisms for trade unions and employers. Special focus was placed on practical aspects—how to create effective internal grievance mechanisms, how to advocate for them, and how to incorporate them into the collective bargaining process.
The exchange of experiences with Irish colleagues provided a deeper understanding of international standards and the application of best practices in peaceful labour dispute resolution.
By enhancing the skills of conciliators and arbitrators, the protection of labour rights in both the public and private sectors is improved, contributing to the creation of a more stable and just working environment in Serbia.
07. March 2025.
The Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes marked 20 years of successful work at the international conference “Access to Justice in Labour Matters for All: Prevention and Resolution of Labour Disputes,” held on March 4, 2025, at the Metropol Hotel in Belgrade. The conference was organized with the support of the International Labour Organization and its projects aimed at strengthening social dialogue and labour justice in Serbia and the region.
This significant event brought together experts in labour law, social dialogue, and conciliation, as well as representatives of social partners and institutions, who joined the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes in celebrating two decades of the institution’s work.
The conference was officially opened by the Director of the Agency, Dr. Ivica Lazović, who spoke about the achievements and vision for the Agency’s further development. Participants were also welcomed by Ada Huibregtse, Chief Technical Advisor of the International Labour Organization, Zoran Martinović, Assistant Minister at the Ministry of Labour, Employment, Veteran, and Social Affairs, Duško Vuković, Vice President of the Confederation of Autonomous Trade Unions of Serbia, Zoran Ilić, Deputy President of UGS “Nezavisnost,” and Vesna Kovačević Stanković from the Union of Employers of Serbia.
In the opening addresses, the significance of developing a system for peaceful labour dispute resolution was highlighted, along with its role in stabilizing labour relations, reducing court disputes, and strengthening social dialogue in Serbia.
A special part of the conference was dedicated to awarding recognitions to partners who have contributed to the development of mechanisms for peaceful labour dispute resolution in Serbia.
During panel discussions, participants had the opportunity to hear experiences and best practices from experts from European countries such as Sweden, Spain, Portugal, Greece, Ireland, Bulgaria, Belgium, as well as from the Western Balkans. The panels offered comparisons of different models of peaceful labour dispute resolution, with a particular focus on the development of regional and European networks of institutions in this field.
Participants were also introduced to the International Labour Organization’s guidelines for improving access to justice in labour matters, which represent an important step in the continuous advancement of legal and institutional frameworks for resolving labour disputes.
The celebration of 20 years of the Agency’s work confirmed that peaceful labour dispute resolution is a key instrument for a stable and fair working environment and that the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes remains one of the key pillars of this process in Serbia.
25. February 2025.
At the headquarters of the International Labour Organization (ILO) in Geneva, from February 17 to 21, 2025, the Tripartite Technical Meeting on "Access to Justice in Labour Matters: Prevention and Resolution of Labour Disputes" was held, bringing together representatives from over 80 countries. This meeting was the first of its kind and marks a turning point in international efforts to focus on access to justice in the prevention and resolution of labour disputes.
Following intensive discussions and the exchange of diverse national experiences, a joint document was adopted, providing clear guidelines for future actions in this field. The document highlights key principles of effective and inclusive labour dispute resolution, in line with international labour standards and the principles of social justice.
The conclusions of the meeting unequivocally confirm that access to justice in labour matters is not only a legal issue but also a foundation for stable labour relations and social cohesion. To fully implement this principle, ILO member states were called upon to strengthen institutional capacities, improve judicial and non-judicial mechanisms, and ensure that all workers and employers have equal opportunities to protect their rights. Furthermore, they were encouraged to focus on continuous prevention of labour disputes by strengthening social dialogue and collective bargaining, which were recognized as the most effective tools for maintaining stable relations between employers and employees.
The role of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) was also examined as one of the key mechanisms for achieving efficient and fair labour justice. ADR was recognized as an important complementary model that can help ease the burden on court systems and enable faster and more cost-effective resolution of labour conflicts. Additionally, the need for further development and enhancement of these practices was emphasized, particularly through capacity-building for institutions and experts conducting peaceful resolution of labour disputes. Ensuring the voluntary nature of alternative processes and their compliance with international labour standards was identified as a necessary condition for their successful implementation in various legal systems.
Another important topic discussed was digitalization and the use of new technologies in labour dispute resolution processes. It was highlighted that online platforms and digital case management systems can improve accessibility and efficiency in providing labour justice. However, it is essential to ensure fairness and transparency in their implementation. A key challenge remains ensuring that technological innovations do not create additional barriers for the most vulnerable groups of workers.
With this initiative, the International Labour Organization has once again reaffirmed its crucial role in ensuring social justice worldwide. The meeting clearly demonstrated that the future of labour justice lies in strengthening preventive mechanisms, promoting social dialogue, and improving effective and fair dispute resolution mechanisms.
This represents a historic step forward in regulating one of the most critical aspects of modern labour law, and the conclusions of the meeting will serve as the basis for future regulatory recommendations within the International Labour Organization.
Among the participants was a delegation from the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes, which attended as an observer at the invitation of the International Labour Organization. The Agency’s representatives presented the Serbian model of peaceful labour dispute resolution, which has been successfully applied for 20 years. The Agency’s participation contributed to the quality of the meeting’s recommendations and to strengthening international cooperation in the fields of labour law and social dialogue.
11. February 2025.
A delegation of social partners from the Republic of Serbia, together with representatives of the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes, visited the Republic of Portugal from February 2 to February 6, 2025. This visit was organized as part of the project "Strengthening Social Dialogue in the Republic of Serbia," implemented by the International Labour Organization with financial support from the Delegation of the European Union to Serbia.
During the visit, the delegation had the opportunity to familiarize itself with key institutions shaping labour and industrial relations in Portugal, including the Economic and Social Council (CES), the Directorate-General for Employment and Labour Relations (DGERT), the Authority for Working Conditions (ACT), the Institute for Employment and Vocational Training (IEFP), the Commission for Equality in Labour and Employment (CITE), and the Regional Labour Council (CRL). These institutions play a crucial role in regulating labour relations and strengthening social dialogue in the country.
Of particular importance for the work of the Agency was the visit to the Directorate-General for Employment and Labour Relations (DGERT), where the delegation had the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of practices in resolving collective labour disputes. During meetings with DGERT representatives, experiences were exchanged on mechanisms for dispute resolution, the role of tripartite dialogue, and ways to ensure the protection of labour rights through collective agreements and legislative initiatives.
In addition to institutional meetings, the delegation met with Portugal’s representative social partners, including the Portuguese Tourism Confederation (CTP), the Confederation of Commerce and Services (CCP), the Portuguese Industry Confederation (CIP), the Portuguese Farmers Confederation (CAP), as well as trade union organizations such as the General Confederation of Portuguese Workers (CGTP) and the General Union of Workers (UGT).
The delegation included representatives from the Employers’ Union of Serbia, the Confederation of Autonomous Trade Unions of Serbia, the UGS "Independence" Trade Union, the International Labour Organization, the Ministry of Labour, and the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes. The Agency was represented by Director Ivica Lazović and Draganа Andonovska, Head of the Group.
The exchange of experiences on collective bargaining, challenges in labour relations, and the roles of social partners in the modern economy will be valuable for the further reform of regulations and practices in social dialogue in the Republic of Serbia. Based on these insights, the delegation gained an understanding of mechanisms that can contribute to strengthening the dialogue between workers, employers, and the state.
The visit to Portugal marks another step in enhancing the capacity and role of the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes in Serbia. The implementation of best practices can contribute to improving labour relations and strengthening social dialogue in our country.
The Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes will continue to cooperate with international and domestic partners to further improve its work and support the development of social dialogue in Serbia.
