‘Europe Now 2’ program as key to reducing unemployment and enhancing living standards in Montenegro

David Perčobić, the acting director of the Employment Bureau (ZZZ), has emphasized that the “Europe Now 2” program is a vital initiative for reducing unemployment and enhancing living standards in Montenegro. He has expressed strong support for the program and underscored that unemployment remains one of the country’s most pressing social challenges.

Perčobić explained that addressing unemployment involves multiple factors, including economic activity levels and the alignment of the education system with labor market demands. Despite frequent criticism of ZZZ for high unemployment rates, he believes this criticism often overlooks the institution’s actual scope and capabilities.

He highlighted that Montenegro is currently experiencing its lowest registered unemployment rate in a decade, below 12 percent, a notable improvement from previous years.

The “Europe Now 2” program is designed to boost the minimum wage, which is expected to improve workers’ purchasing power and reduce poverty. This initiative aims to stimulate consumption and enhance household stability. Additionally, the program provides support for employers through subsidies and incentives for hiring new staff, potentially increasing employment and creating new job opportunities.

The program also invests in education and training, equipping young people with the skills needed in the labor market, which directly helps in reducing unemployment.

Perčobić stressed that the “Europe Now 2” program is not only an economic project but also a social one. Its successful implementation will foster greater public trust in institutions, essential for the long-term development and stability of Montenegro.

He noted that ZZZ alone cannot tackle unemployment or increase job opportunities. Creating a favorable environment for growth and employment requires regulatory changes, better conditions for job creation, attracting foreign investments, reducing business barriers, and effective oversight. Therefore, he called on all relevant stakeholders to support this initiative to build a better future for all.