Trade Unions and Social Dialogue in the Period of Crisis: The Serbian Case

Working women and men in Serbia are currently suffering the effects of the global financial and economic crisis. Serbia, among other countries in the region, has been deeply affected by the crisis and therefore it has become vital to reinforce trade union capacity to plan strategically as a response to the rapid changes in the economic, social and political environments. With the goal of strengthening efforts to mitigate the effects of the crisis on working people this publication aims to support the leaders and experts of workers' organizations in developing policy proposals and negotiating on behalf of their members.

The research underlying this publication is based on a comprehensive assessment of the origins and the impact of the crisis. In addition, it presents some policy responses and exit strategies proposed by international organizations and some countries in Europe, while focusing firmly on Serbia. The role of trade unions, their possibilities and challenges are also examined. Strategic choices of trade unions for developing and agreeing on an anti-crisis agenda in Serbia are outlined. The document is also meant to be used by trade unions in the region as a tool for discussion and reflection in their efforts to improve their services to their members and to strengthen their influence in public policy debates. The volume can also be of interest to researchers and students of industrial relations.