The Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes successfully organized its second interactive training session for conciliators and arbitrators this year on December 2, 2024. The event took place at the Palace of Serbia in Belgrade, featuring esteemed experts and practitioners in labor law.

In his opening address, the Agency’s Director, Dr. Ivica Lazović, briefed the conciliators and arbitrators on the Agency’s current activities, upcoming plans, and announced future training sessions. He highlighted significant projects aimed at enhancing social dialogue in the Republic of Serbia, in which the Agency plays a key role. Dr. Lazović reminded attendees that next year marks the Agency’s 20th anniversary, which will be celebrated appropriately and ceremoniously. He also discussed the forthcoming selection and re-selection process for conciliators and arbitrators, describing it as an excellent opportunity for further professional development in this field.

During the training, judges Predrag Trifunović, Persida Jovanović, Zorica Veljić, and Marko Radović presented current judicial practices in labor disputes. Professor Nataša Petrović Tomić provided insights into the theory of arbitration and its practical aspects. Mira Basta, Special Advisor to the Minister of Labor, Employment, Veteran and Social Affairs, spoke on the importance of social dialogue, collective bargaining, and the challenges associated with these processes. Olga Vučković Kićanović, an expert in labor law and conciliation, discussed workplace mobbing and negotiation techniques for resolving such disputes successfully.

In addition to knowledge sharing, the training offered opportunities for professional networking and discussions on improving the practice of peaceful labor dispute resolution. Conciliators and arbitrators actively participated by asking questions and engaging in dialogue during every segment of the session.

This training once again underscores the Agency’s commitment to strengthening the skills and competencies of its conciliators and arbitrators, with the overarching goal of continuously improving labor law security, fostering social dialogue, and promoting harmonious labor relations.

The traditional visit of final-year students from the Faculty of Law, University of Belgrade, specializing in labor law, to the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes took place on November 27, 2024, at the Palace of Serbia. The visit was organized as part of the Cooperation Agreement between the Faculty of Law and the Agency, with the students accompanied by Prof. Dr. Ljubinka Kovačević and Teaching Assistant Mina Kuzminac.

The event was opened by the Agency’s Director, Dr. Ivica Lazović, who expressed satisfaction with the longstanding collaboration between the Agency and this higher education institution. He emphasized that the Agency's doors are open to students interested in exploring peaceful labor dispute resolution in their academic work or completing professional internships at the Agency. Dr. Lazović provided an overview of the historical development of the institution of peaceful labor dispute resolution and the Agency itself, highlighting comparative legal practices worldwide. He also shared the Agency's achievements, challenges, and vision for the future.

Dragana Andonovska, Head of the Legal and Professional Affairs Group, and Jelena Golubović, an advisor at the Agency, spoke about the Agency’s jurisdiction, principles, procedures, statistics, examples from its extensive practice, and ongoing processes of digitalization and digital transformation. Through practical examples, they demonstrated that even the most complex labor disputes can be resolved amicably, provided the parties are willing to cooperate, avoiding lengthy court proceedings.

The introduction to the Agency’s work concluded with a discussion with the students, during which they posed questions, shared opinions, and voiced observations about the Agency's work and alternative methods of labor dispute resolution in the Republic of Serbia.

The Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes had the honor of participating in a workshop dedicated to innovations and the application of behavioral science in public administration, held on November 22, 2024, in Maastricht, the Netherlands.

This prestigious event was organized by the European Institute of Public Administration (EIPA) as part of the project "EPSA 2023-24 – The European Public Sector Award", supported by the European Union. It brought together public administration representatives from Serbia, Ireland, Portugal, Albania, Italy, and the Netherlands, providing a unique opportunity to exchange experiences and gain new insights.

The lectures and interactive sessions were led by Professor Lars Tummers, a renowned expert in public management and behavioral sciences from Utrecht University. Participants were introduced to contemporary theories and practical examples of applying innovations in management. During the workshop, attendees worked on developing concrete innovation projects and analyzed how scientific findings could enhance the operational processes within their institutions.

Representing the Agency, the workshop was attended by Agency Director Dr. Ivica Lazović and Advisor Miloš Prokić, who actively participated in all program segments. A key value of the event was the exchange of experiences with colleagues from other countries, which will contribute to the further implementation of innovative solutions in the Agency's operations.

Participation in such workshops represents a significant step toward improving our services and strengthening our capacity for the peaceful settlement of labor disputes. The Agency remains committed to continuous advancement and the application of modern methods in its work.

The Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes participated in a panel titled "Disputed Labor Issues," organized on November 15, 2024, by the Association of Legal Professionals in Economy and the Associations of Legal Professionals of Vršac, Bela Crkva, and Plandište. The panel was moderated by Dr. Nenad Grujić, Secretary General of the Association of Legal Professionals in Economy. Speakers included Dr. Ivica Lazović, Director of the Agency; Assistant Professor Dr. Filip Bojić from the Faculty of Law, University of Belgrade; and retired appellate court judge Zorica Veljić.

Mr. Lazović presented the mechanism of peaceful labor dispute resolution and highlighted the Agency's jurisdiction. He emphasized the benefits for employees and employers who choose to resolve disputes through the Agency instead of pursuing court proceedings. Dr. Lazović also stressed the importance of collaboration between the Agency and the professional community to ensure the most efficient resolution of disputes between employees and employers.

In addition to discussing peaceful dispute resolution as an effective mechanism for preventing and resolving disputes, the panel addressed topics such as misuse of sick leave, statute of limitations for contributions, termination of employment contracts due to breaches of work discipline, and the realization and protection of collective employee rights under domestic law.

At the conclusion of the panel, the President of the Association of Legal Professionals in Economy, Nataša Petrović Tomić, and the President of the Board of Directors of the Associations of Legal Professionals of Vršac, Bela Crkva, and Plandište, Igor Orta, signed a Cooperation Agreement between the two associations.

The cooperation agreement between the Faculty of Law at Union University in Belgrade and the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes was signed on Thursday, November 7, 2024. The agreement was signed by the Director of the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes, Dr. Ivica Lazović, and the Dean of the Faculty of Law at Union University in Belgrade, Prof. Dr. Violeta Beširević. The signing was also attended by Dr. Mila Petrović, an assistant professor at the Faculty and a conciliator for the Agency.

The signed agreement establishes collaboration between the Faculty of Law at Union University in Belgrade and the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes, aiming to further develop and enhance the capacities of both institutions. This partnership enables conciliators and arbitrators to improve their skills while promoting the peaceful resolution of individual and collective labor disputes among students. Additionally, the agreement creates opportunities for exchanging information and experiences, participating in joint projects, and organizing seminars and professional gatherings in areas of mutual interest.

The Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes presented mechanisms for the protection of labor rights within its jurisdiction at a two-day international seminar titled "Strengthening Social Dialogue - Due Diligence and Responsibility in the Supply Chain in the Context of Combating Human Trafficking and Labor Exploitation." The seminar was held in Belgrade from October 29-30, 2024, organized by the Trade Union of Construction Workers and Building Materials Industry of Serbia, ACVBIE from Belgium, and CNV Vakmensen from the Netherlands, with financial support from the European Union and the European Center for Workers' Questions (EZA).

The event brought together trade union representatives from Serbia, Belgium, and the Netherlands, as well as union members from Austria, Croatia, Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and North Macedonia. Representatives from the International Labour Organization (ILO), Germany's GIZ, and the non-governmental sector also participated.

During the panel discussion titled "Due Diligence – Grievance Mechanisms and Procedures," Dragana Andonovska, Senior Advisor at the Agency, introduced the audience to the Agency's work and competencies. She emphasized that disputes before the Agency are resolved quickly, efficiently, and free of charge, making it the most effective external grievance mechanism for labor disputes after exhausting all internal mechanisms. She also shared examples from the Agency's practice, highlighting the cost savings achieved by disputing parties who opted for peaceful resolution.

In the subsequent discussion, participants had the opportunity to ask questions and clarify uncertainties about peaceful resolution of labor disputes and the Agency's role. Additionally, they heard experiences from union representatives who had utilized the Agency's services to resolve individual and collective labor disputes, gaining first-hand insight into the benefits of this external dispute resolution mechanism.

At the first "LEGAL PRO FORUM 2024," held from October 20th to 23rd at Zlatibor, a panel on "Long-term Corporate Value Creation" featured prominent experts in sustainable business practices and labor law. The panelists—Tijana Koprivica, Director of Sustainable Business at Delta Holding, Dr. Jovana Veličković, a lawyer from Belgrade, and Dr. Ivica Lazović, Director of the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes—discussed the importance of long-term corporate value creation through the implementation of ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) standards. The panel was moderated by Dr. Ljubinka Kovačević, Full Professor at the Faculty of Law, University of Belgrade.

Dr. Ivica Lazović introduced the attendees to the work and responsibilities of the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes, emphasizing its role as an external mechanism when all internal dispute resolution options within companies have been exhausted. He also addressed the participants on the new regulations regarding due diligence in supply chains and their implications for business operations. Dr. Lazović presented examples of effective labor dispute resolution before the Agency, stressing that this mechanism is crucial for maintaining stability and fair relations in the labor market. The attendees had the opportunity to ask questions and discuss the potential application of these alternative mechanisms for protecting labor rights.

The panelists highlighted that sustainable development is a topic of the future, relevant to all companies regardless of size. It was concluded that collaboration between companies through experience sharing, as well as support from professional organizations, will be key factors in overcoming challenges on the path to meeting ESG standards.

A panel discussion titled "Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes – Arbitration and Conciliation" was held at the Bar Association of Vojvodina in Novi Sad on Wednesday, October 16, 2024.

At this highly engaging event, Prof. Dr. Senad Jašarević, Full Professor at the Faculty of Law in Novi Sad, Dr. Ivica Lazović, Director of the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes, and Dejana Spasojević-Ivančić, a lawyer, conciliator, and arbitrator, introduced members of the Bar Association of Vojvodina and the professional public to the methods and procedures for resolving both collective and individual labor disputes, the scope of arbitrators' and conciliators' authorities, and the types of decisions made in these proceedings.

Mr. Lazović presented the work, activities, and competencies of the Agency, emphasizing the important role of the Agency and its conciliators and arbitrators in resolving labor disputes, enhancing workers' rights protection, improving social dialogue, and adapting to new labor market challenges.

All speakers at the panel agreed that the future of labor dispute resolution lies in out-of-court methods, which are quick, simple, and efficient.

From October 8th to 10th, 2024, in Ruma (Borkovac), the "Study on Social Dialogue in the Republic of Serbia" was presented to social partners. Along with the presentation of the study, a workshop was held to validate its findings. The study was carried out as part of the project "Strengthening Social Dialogue in the Republic of Serbia," supported by the European Commission in Serbia and the International Labour Organization (ILO).

Numerous experts and representatives of social partners participated in the workshop, including Dr. Ivica Lazović, Director of the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes, and Dragana Andonovska, Head of the Legal and Professional Affairs Group at the Agency. Among the prominent participants were Prof. Dr. Attila Sándor Kun from Budapest, Lejo Siebel from the ILO, and Ada Huitbragtze, who will lead the ESAP 3 project.

The workshop participants shared their views on the study, emphasizing the need for legislative changes regulating labor-related matters. Through collaborative efforts, they formulated general recommendations for improving social dialogue in Serbia.

The "Strengthening Social Dialogue in the Republic of Serbia" project will be implemented over the next year and is expected to significantly contribute to enhancing the state of social dialogue in Serbia. The Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes played an important role in this workshop, actively participating in the development of general recommendations for improving social dialogue, reaffirming its importance in resolving labor disputes and strengthening tripartite dialogue in the country.

The XXVI International Scientific and Professional Conference of the Association for Labor Law and Social Security was held from October 2 to 5 in Zlatibor. This year's conference focused on the theme "Contributions to the Future Reform of Labor Legislation" and gathered a large number of eminent experts in labor law from Serbia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina (Republika Srpska), North Macedonia, as well as representatives from the relevant ministry, the EU Delegation in Serbia, and the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in Serbia.

Dr. Ivica Lazović, Director of the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes, had the honor of opening the conference. In his opening remarks, he emphasized the importance of cooperation among all participants – state institutions, trade unions, employers, the academic community, and international partners – in achieving the common goal of modernizing labor legislation in line with European standards, while also considering the specificities of our social and economic context. Lazović highlighted that labor regulations are the foundation of social justice and economic development, and this conference contributes to reforms aimed at better protecting workers' rights, improving social dialogue, and adapting to new challenges in the labor market, including digitalization and globalization.

Alongside Mr. Lazović, Zoran Martinović, Assistant Minister in the Ministry of Labor, Employment, Veteran, and Social Affairs, and Dr. Jovan Protić, Coordinator of the ILO Office for Serbia, also spoke at the opening. They announced a project titled "Empowering Social Dialogue in the Republic of Serbia" in which the Agency will play a significant role, aimed at fostering better understanding and cooperation among social partners. The project also plans to consider amending a set of laws to improve labor legislation in the Republic of Serbia.

During the working part of the conference, Mr. Lazović presented a paper on the topic "New Strike Law - An Important Reform Step" reminding attendees of the need for a new Strike Law as an important prerequisite for labor legislation reform. The first day of the conference began with presentations on topics related to social dialogue, collective bargaining, strikes, the impact of artificial intelligence on labor relations, as well as current issues in individual and collective labor relations. After the presentations, roundtable discussions were organized on the topic of social dialogue in Serbia and judicial resolution of labor disputes, featuring eminent experts, including Matthieu Penot, the EU Delegation's Attaché in Serbia, and Peer Krumrey, Advisor for Labor and Social Law at the German Embassy in Serbia.

The second and third days of the conference featured presentations on the labor status of freelancers, proposals for improving the employer change institute in labor legislation, disciplinary responsibility of employees, non-compete clauses, employment of persons with intellectual disabilities, flexible forms of employment, and a roundtable on the rights of workers on digital platforms in Serbia.

The thematic areas of the conference covered the entirety of labor law through the lens of all labor law institutions and practices in resolving labor disputes. The conference also offered new perspectives on current issues in labor legislation that support future reform.

At the ceremony held on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, marking the anniversary of the Union of Employers of Serbia – 30 years since its establishment and operations, Dr. Ivica Lazović, Director of the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes, was awarded a special recognition for long-standing support, contribution, and successful cooperation.

This recognition confirms the strong and successful cooperation, which has lasted for nearly two decades, in establishing dialogue, promoting justice, and finding solutions that benefit both the economy and employees.

In addition to the President of the Union of Employers of Serbia, Miloš Nenezić, those addressing the attendees included the President of the Confederation of Autonomous Trade Unions of Serbia, Ljubisav Orbović, and the President of the United Branch Unions 'Nezavisnost,' Čedanka Andrić. During the ceremony, participants also had the opportunity to hear messages from Roberto Suárez Santos, Secretary-General of the International Organization of Employers, one of the most important voices on the global stage regarding the protection of employers' rights and the promotion of their interests.

The Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes congratulates the Union of Employers of Serbia on this significant anniversary, with the belief that through continued good cooperation, a stable and prosperous system will be built, where rights and obligations are respected for the benefit of all.

The Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes has taken part in the project "Empowering Social Dialogue in the Republic of Serbia" which aims to strengthen the position and rights of workers and enhance the capacities of the state administration. The project, implemented in cooperation with the International Labour Organization and the EU, was presented today, September 18, 2024, at the Metropol Hotel. Alongside our Agency, the Ministry of Labor, Employment, Veteran, and Social Affairs, representative trade unions (SSSS and UGS 'Nezavisnost'), and the Union of Employers of Serbia are also participating in the project.

This project aims to strengthen the position and rights of workers, enhance the capacities of social partners, state administration, national and local socio-economic councils, and the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes as a key body for dialogue and the use of alternative dispute resolution methods.

The project also foresees the improvement of the legal framework for strengthening social dialogue in the Republic of Serbia, with plans to amend a whole set of laws, including the Labor Law, the Strike Law, the Law on the Socio-Economic Council, and the Law on the Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes, all with the aim of modernization and alignment with the needs and demands of the modern labor market.

The event was opened by the Minister of Labor, Employment, Veteran, and Social Affairs, Nemanja Starović, who emphasized the importance of cooperation between trade unions, employers, and the state to improve social dialogue and enhance the status of workers.

The Head of the EU Delegation to Serbia, Emmanuel Joffre, stated on this occasion that during the COVID-19 pandemic, it became clear that the structure of work could change, setting new goals for improving work frameworks and models. He noted that this project promotes European standards and that by implementing it, Serbia is moving closer to those standards.

Other speakers at the event included Emmanuel Julien, Deputy Regional Director of the International Labour Organization for Europe and Central Asia; Zoran Mihajlović, Secretary of the Council of the Confederation of Autonomous Trade Unions of Serbia (SSSS); Čedanka Andrić, President of the United Branch Union 'Nezavisnost'; and Miloš Nenezić, President of the Union of Employers of Serbia.

The Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes will play a significant role in this project, which is expected to contribute substantially to enhancing the capacities of both the Agency itself and its conciliators and arbitrators, in the interest of all users of conciliaton and arbitration services.

A delegation from the Agency, led by Director Dr. Ivica Lazović, also attended the opening of the event.

Following negotiations, conciliated by the Republic Agency for the Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes, on August 30, 2024, an Agreement on the resolution of the collective labor dispute was signed between the 'Sloga' United Trade Unions of Serbia - Health and Social Care Trade Union and the General Hospital 'Sveti Luka' Smederevo, regarding the application of the collective agreement.

The procedure before the Agency was initiated ex officio, in accordance with the Law on the Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes. Immediately upon receiving the Proposal from the 'Sloga' United Trade Unions of Serbia - Health and Social Care Trade Union, Dr. Darko Božičić, the acting conciliator, in accordance with the law, formed a Conciliation Board at the first hearing, which included representatives of the parties in the dispute and the acting conciliator as the chairperson of the Board. After four hearings, during which the disputing parties presented their views and proposals, the parties first came closer and later aligned their positions on how to resolve the disputed issues. At the conclusion of the conciliation process, the acting mediator and the members of the Board determined the final text of the Joint Recommendation, which, in accordance with the law, was unanimously approved by all.

Based on the Joint Recommendation, representatives of the Trade Union and the General Hospital 'Sveti Luka' Smederevo concluded an Agreement on the resolution of the collective labor dispute.

By choosing to resolve the collective dispute through the Agency, with skillful guidance by the conciliator, Dr. Darko Božičić, the parties contributed to preserving social peace and good relations, demonstrating the advantages of peaceful resolution of collective labor disputes by enhancing social dialogue.

Serbia’s Construction Workers’ Day was marked today at the session of the Republic Board of the Trade Union of Construction Workers and the Building Materials Industry of Serbia.

The trade union representatives were greeted by the Director of the Agency, Dr. Ivica Lazović. He thanked them for the sincere partnership and quality cooperation that this union has had with the Agency for many years and emphasized the importance of the fact that trade unions recognize the Agency as the first address to turn to in the event of labor disputes with employers. Mr. Lazović underlined the importance of building trust between trade unions, employers, and the Agency. He highlighted as special values the fact that construction workers strive for collective bargaining and have a Special Collective Agreement, and that they turn to the Agency for all problems. This trust in the legal institutions of the Republic of Serbia adds a special quality to our cooperation. He then briefly informed those present about the Agency’s work results, emphasizing the benefits for all parties in the dispute if they choose to resolve the labor dispute peacefully.

Also addressing those present were Dušan Petrović, Secretary of the Socio-Economic Council of the Republic of Serbia; Maja Ilić from the Labor Inspectorate; Veselin Ražnatović, President of the Construction Workers in the Union of Employers of Serbia; and, as hosts, on behalf of the Confederation of Autonomous Trade Unions of Serbia as the umbrella organization, Secretary Zoran Mihajlović and President of the Union of Construction Workers and the Building Materials Industry of Serbia (SRGIGMS), Saša Torlaković.

The working part of the session followed, during which topics of importance to the Union and its membership were discussed.

In two recently concluded cases before the Agency, which were conducted regarding workplace mobbing at the University Clinical Center Kragujevac in Kragujevac and Planeta Sport d.o.o. in Belgrade, the parties involved reached a settlement and arbitration resolution.

The employer and employees at the University Clinical Center Kragujevac jointly submitted a proposal for peaceful resolution of a labor dispute to the Agency concerning mobbing. The parties in the dispute agreed on the selection of an arbitrator, and Miljko Valjarević was appointed.

After the hearing, both the employees and the employer demonstrated a high level of responsibility to resolve all contentious issues, leading to an agreement on all disputed points. The parties agreed not to belittle, undermine, intimidate, damage the professional reputation, health, safety, or dignity of the disputing parties or any employees of the employer in any way. All contentious issues were resolved through constructive dialogue and a desire to create a pleasant working atmosphere without disrupted interpersonal relationships. In the end, the parties reached an agreement that was confirmed by an arbitration resolution.

Additionally, a case involving an employee of Planeta Sport d.o.o. from Belgrade, who believed she was subjected to workplace harassment, was recently concluded before the Agency. She submitted a proposal to the Agency, which was sent to the employer for approval. The employer agreed to resolve the matter peacefully before the Agency, and the parties in the dispute agreed to appoint Dejana Spasojević Ivančić as the arbitrator. Only one hearing was needed to resolve all contentious issues, and the process was concluded with a handshake, in the interest of the greater good and the collective. Based on the agreement reached by the parties, the acting arbitrator issued an arbitration resolution.

These examples are just a few from the Agency's practice, confirming that it is the right place for anyone who believes they are experiencing workplace mobbing and a good alternative to the Law on Prevention of Workplace Harassment or lengthy court proceedings.

With the amendments to the Law on Peaceful Resolution of Labor Disputes in 2018, the Agency handles these cases by attempting to reconcile the parties and reach a mutually acceptable resolution for behaviors and relationships that someone perceives as harassment, while others may see as conflict, argument, or misunderstanding. In the interest of normalizing workplace relations, creating a positive working environment, avoiding lengthy court disputes, and preventing further disruption of relationships within the company, the Agency resolves these cases through agreements between the parties, which are confirmed by an arbitration resolution that is final and enforceable. It is commendable that an increasing number of employers and employees recognize the advantages of this procedure and place their trust in the Agency over lengthy court proceedings.

Through the Republic Agency for Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes, a collective labor dispute at the Health Center Valjevo was resolved by signing a joint recommendation. The collective labor dispute, concerning the right to union organization and activity, was initiated by the Trade Union of Nurses and Technicians of Serbia, and the other party in the dispute, the Health Center Valjevo, agreed to resolve the matter peacefully before the Agency.

The mediator, Dr. Mila Petrović, in accordance with the law, formed a Mediation Board during the first hearing, which included the mediator as the Chairperson of the Board and representatives from all parties involved in the dispute. Following the hearing, the parties in the dispute aligned their positions and reached an agreement on all contentious issues, leading to the signing of a joint recommendation.

The employer and the union demonstrated how social dialogue between employees and employers can lead to the right solution, opting for a peaceful resolution of the collective labor dispute in line with the Serbian Government's recommendation to resolve disputes peacefully.

The annual meeting of the European Works Council of Erste Group will be held in Belgrade on June 26th and 27th, 2024. Employees from around ten different countries expressed a desire to learn about the work of the Republic Agency for Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes and, through the Erste Bank Union in Serbia, invited the Agency to be a special guest at the event.

Given the long-standing cooperation with these unions, the Agency accepted the invitation, and the Director of the Agency, Dr. Ivica Lazović, spoke about the work and competencies of the Agency. Dragana Andonovska, Senior Advisor at the Agency and Head of the Legal Affairs Group, discussed the practice of peaceful resolution of labor disputes, particularly issues related to overtime work, wage payments and other benefits, termination of employment contracts, as well as mobbing in banks and ways to address these problems.

Erste Group employees were given insights into collective bargaining, practices, experiences, and trends in Europe and worldwide by Prof. Dr. Živko Kulić, one of the most experienced mediators and arbitrators of the Agency. On the second day of the event, participants were introduced to ways of combating mobbing, as well as collective bargaining, by Olga Vučković Kićanović, a mediator and arbitrator of the Agency and an expert in labor law.

All representatives of the Agency answered numerous questions and participated in a dialogue that made the event particularly engaging.

On June 25th and 26th, 2024, a seminar titled "The Right to Collective Bargaining and Action" will be held in Belgrade, organized by the European Federation of Public Services Employees (EUROFEDOP) with the support of the European Centre for Workers' Questions (EZA) and the EU. On this occasion, one of the speakers on the first day of the event was the Director of the Republic Agency for Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes, Dr. Ivica Lazović.

The event was opened by the President of EUROFEDOP, Norbert Schnedl, as well as Jadranko Vehar, President of the National Trade Union of Postal and Telecom Workers of Croatia, and Slađan Bobić, President of the Trade Union of Public Administration of Serbia.

The first day of the event featured two separate thematic sessions, led by Professor Lazar Joveski from the Faculty of Law "Cyril and Methodius" in Skopje. The first session discussed collective bargaining, with the trade union's positions presented by Ivica Cvetković, Acting President of the Judiciary Trade Union of Serbia, while the employers' positions were addressed by Filip Lazović, Deputy Secretary General of the Employers' Union of Montenegro.

In the second thematic session, which focused on disputes and their resolution, the trade union's position was presented by Dragana Đorđević, President of the Independent Trade Union of Culture of Serbia, while Dr. Ivica Lazović, Director of the Republic Agency for Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes, spoke on the topic "Improving Social Dialogue through Resolution of Individual and Collective Labor Disputes."

At the end of the first day, a very active discussion was held with participants from over 10 different European countries.

Through the conciliation of the Republic Agency for Peaceful Resolution of Labor Disputes, a collective labor dispute at Serbia and Montenegro Air Traffic Services (SMATSA) LLC Belgrade was resolved amicably regarding the implementation of the collective agreement.

This procedure was initiated following the Proposal for Initiating the Procedure for Peaceful Resolution of a Collective Labor Dispute by the Air Traffic Control Union, and the employer, Serbia and Montenegro Air Traffic Services (SMATSA) LLC Belgrade, agreed to resolve the dispute peacefully before the Agency.

With the consent of the parties in dispute, Prof. Dr. Bojan Urdarević was appointed as the conciliator. In accordance with the law, he formed a Conciliation Committee at the first hearing, which included representatives of the disputing parties and the conciliator. After four hearings, a joint recommendation was established, reaching an agreement on how to resolve the disputed issues. All parties unanimously adopted the proposed Recommendation.

The employer and the union at Serbia and Montenegro Air Traffic Services (SMATSA) LLC Belgrade, in line with the recommendation of the Government of the Republic of Serbia, exemplified readiness for social dialogue and finding compromise solutions through the process of peaceful resolution of the labor dispute in the interest of all employees.

A joint recommendation on the resolution of the collective labor dispute was signed at the Public Media Institution "Radio-Television of Vojvodina," successfully resolving the dispute before the Republic Agency for Peaceful Resolution of Labor Disputes.

The process of peaceful resolution of the collective labor dispute was initiated by the "Nezavisnost" Union of the Public Media Institution "Radio-Television of Vojvodina." The subject of the dispute was a strike regarding several issues related to the implementation of the collective agreement. The employer, the Public Media Institution "Radio-Television of Vojvodina," consented to resolve the dispute peacefully before the Agency.

Prof. Dr. Senad Jašarević was appointed as the mediator by the Agency's director in accordance with the law. At the first hearing, he formed a Conciliation Committee that included representatives of the disputing parties.

During the negotiations, the parties in dispute demonstrated a high degree of understanding and mutual respect. After three hearings, a joint recommendation was agreed upon, which outlined the resolution of all disputed issues. This recommendation was signed by the representatives of the disputing parties and the acting mediator.

The employer and the union at the Public Media Institution "Radio-Television of Vojvodina," in accordance with the recommendation of the Government of the Republic of Serbia, exemplified readiness for social dialogue and finding compromise solutions through the process of peaceful resolution of the labor dispute in the interest of all employees.

In the process of peaceful resolution of the collective labor dispute at the "Dr. Janos Hadji" Health Center in Bačka Topola, which was conducted regarding the implementation of the collective agreement, an agreement was reached between the parties in dispute, and a joint Recommendation was signed. The procedure was initiated by the Union of Doctors and Pharmacists of Serbia, Basic Organization Bačka Topola and Mali Iđoš. The employer, the "Dr. Janos Hadji" Health Center from Bačka Topola, agreed to resolve the dispute peacefully, and the parties in dispute agreed to appoint Olga Marinkov Bajić as the mediator.

In accordance with the law, the acting mediator formed a Conciliation Committee at the first hearing, which included representatives of the parties in the dispute in addition to herself. After two hearings, the parties in dispute brought their positions closer, which led to the signing of a joint Recommendation on the method of resolving the collective labor dispute.

The employer and the Union at the "Dr. Janos Hadji" Health Center in Bačka Topola demonstrated how social dialogue between employees and the employer can lead to a fair solution that is in the interest of all parties.

The Director of the Republic Agency for Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes, Dr. Ivica Lazović, attended the International Scientific Conference "Dynamics of the Modern Legal Order" co-organized by the Faculty of Law of the University of Priština with a temporary seat in Kosovska Mitrovica, the Institute of Comparative Law from Belgrade, and the Institute for Sociological and Criminological Research from Belgrade, held at the Faculty of Law in Kosovska Mitrovica on May 24 and 25, 2024. On this occasion, through a scientific article, he presented the possibilities for protecting employees' rights through the Agency's competencies in the context of current regulations on due diligence in supply chains.

The conference brought together a large number of eminent experts and theorists in the field of law. It was extremely significant to be part of the conference and to present the work and competencies of the Agency to experts from all parts of our country, as well as from abroad.

The Director of the Agency had the honor of chairing the Public Law Sciences session, which featured numerous high-quality papers.

On the second day of the conference, participants visited Prizren, the Church of Our Lady of Ljeviš, the Church of Saint George, the Prizren Theological School, and the Monastery of the Holy Archangels.

This collaboration between the Agency and the Faculty of Law of the University of Priština with a temporary seat in Kosovska Mitrovica is the result of an Agreement signed by the Dean of the Faculty, Prof. Dr. Slobodanka Kovačević Perić, and the Director of the Agency, Dr. Ivica Lazović, on March 15, 2023, which successfully facilitates cooperation in numerous activities, from student internships to joint lectures and the exchange of knowledge and experiences.

On May 10, 2024, the first Interactive Training for Mediators and Arbitrators of the Republic Agency for Peaceful Settlement of Labor Disputes was held this year.

The training was opened by the Agency's Director, Dr. Ivica Lazović, who welcomed the attendees and provided an overview of the Agency's work during the previous period, with a special emphasis on the CAF quality label. He highlighted that being the only ones in the Republic of Serbia to have this prestigious European quality mark is a testament to the collective efforts of all employees, as well as mediators and arbitrators, and shows that these efforts have not been in vain.

The training featured discussions on current judicial practices in the field of labor disputes, led by Lidija Đukić, retired judge of the Constitutional Court, Mila Lazić, judge of the Basic Court in Kragujevac, and Predrag Trifunović, retired judge of the Supreme Court of Cassation.

An important topic on the agenda was specific issues of labor-law relations with a special focus on Kosovo and Metohija, presented by Prof. Dr. Slobodanka Kovačević Perić, Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Priština with a temporary seat in Kosovska Mitrovica.

The final session was dedicated to negotiation skills in conflict situations, presented by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dragana Ćorić from the Faculty of Law at the University of Novi Sad and the Provincial Ombudsperson.

Following the presentations, a discussion was opened on current labor-law topics and the challenges faced by arbitrators and mediators.

The representative of the International Labor Organization and Senior Specialist for Social Dialogue and Labour Law, Mr Lejo Sibbel from the Office for Central and Eastern Europe in Budapest visited the Agency on Thursday, April 25. On that occasion, Mr. Sibbel met with the Director of the Agency, Dr Ivica Lazović.

The meeting was organized in order to discuss the new project "Strengthening social dialogue in the Republic of Serbia" which is being implemented in the Republic of Serbia by the International Labor Organization in partnership with EU Delegation and national social partners, representative trade unions (CATUS, TUC "Nezavisnost"), employers' associations (Serbian Association of Employers), and state representatives - the Ministry of Labour, Social and Economic Council, and the Agency, as an important institution that encourages and develops social dialogue. This project will last for 4 years with the aim of strengthening social dialogue and improving the regulatory and institutional framework for bipartite and tripartite bargaining and functioning.

Mr. Sibbel has also exclusively informed us that the third phase of the "Employment and Social Affairs Platform - ESAP 3" project has been approved, where the regional alternative dispute settlement organizations play a significant role in the said project which also fosters a network of amicable dispute settlement practitioners.

Another project that is currently ongoing is the "Initiative for Global Solidarity" implemented by the German Organization for International Cooperation (GIZ) in cooperation with the ILO and social partners, which has supported significant institutional capacity building of the Agency for Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes, but also promotes these mechanisms in companies subject to German regulations on due diligence in supply chains.

The Director of the Agency, Dr Ivica Lazović, emphasized the importance of cooperation of all social partners in the Republic of Serbia with the ILO, and especially the Republic Agency for Peaceful Resolution of Labor Disputes, for the purposes of social dialogue strengthening, peaceful resolution of labour disputes and improvement of common practices and experiences.

During the cordial and friendly conversation, the interlocutors shared experiences and numerous examples of good cooperation in practice, which has especially gained intensity in the last few years. It was pointed out that this cooperation will be even more intense in the coming period through all the mentioned projects.

On April 19, 2024, the Republic Agency for Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes organized a webinar “Conciliation and arbitration in practice”. The topic of the webinar was presented by professor Živko Kulić PhD, one of the most experienced conciliators and arbiters in the region.

The webinar was attended by students of the faculties with which the Agency has signed a cooperation agreement, the Faculty of Law of the University of Belgrade, the Faculty of Law of the University of Niš, the Faculty of Law of the University of Kragujevac, the Faculty of Law of the University of Pristina with temporary headquarters in Kosovska Mitrovica, The faculty of law and Economy of the Economic Academy University in Novi Sad and many others.

Professor Kulić strived to explain the processes of conciliation and arbitration and present the considerable challenges he has encountered during his practice. He primarily presented the concept of both individual and collective labour disputes to the attendees and explained the methods for settlement of such disputes, with a special focus on the out-of-court methods. Out-of-court methods encompass dispute settlement through conciliation and arbitration which the professor illustrated by recounting specific cases that he has resolved during his renowned career, while placing a special emphasis on workplace harassment and strike cases.

This webinar, which was especially noted by the students, is just one in a set of activities that the Agency will implement in order to enhance its cooperation with universities and inform the future lawyers on alternative labour dispute settlement methods.

After the lectures the attendees were also addressed by Dr Ivica Lazović, the Agency director, who has provided them with exceptional insights on the legal and moral conflict in the framework of conciliation and arbitration which initiated a fruitful discussion on whether different dispute settlement methods give priority to norms or people.

At the end of the webinar the attendees had the opportunity to pose questions and give their remarks, thus participating in the discussion, while highlighting that the Republic Agency for Peaceful Settlement of Labour Disputes has organized a very inspirational webinar.