Serbia's economy stands to benefit from increased female workforce participation, reflecting the vital role women play in job creation and economic growth. Women's employment could enhance household incomes, drive national productivity, and foster innovation. However, Serbian women's participation remains significantly lower than men's, with disadvantaged groups like the Roma facing compounded challenges.
In 2021, compared to 76.6% of men, only 63.4% of Serbian women were active in the labor force. The disparity extends to Roma women and those not in education, employment, or training (NEETs). Systemic barriers, including traditional social norms, contribute to this gap and exacerbate economic inequalities. Addressing these barriers is crucial to fostering income equality and reducing poverty.
To close the gender gap, Serbia proposes creating job access pathways for women through education and training programs and addressing restrictive social norms. Enhancing women's workforce participation can unleash their potential, contributing to Serbia's economic growth.
A World Bank initiative, supported by the EU and in collaboration with Serbia’s National Employment Service (NES), used a discrete choice experiment (DCE) survey to understand the employment needs of Roma women. The survey, conducted across six local employment offices, highlighted the preferences of disengaged groups, including Roma and long-term NEET women.
Survey results show that around half of the respondents are open to training or employment opportunities. Preferences indicate a desire for job options closer to home and programs offering practical, workplace-relevant skills and hands-on experience. These insights assist the government in tailoring services to women's realities, supporting their economic empowerment.
Aimed at empowering Roma women, the World Bank, in partnership with the Serbian Institute of Ethnography and the Entrepreneurship Training Institute, launched a personal initiative (PI) training program. EU-funded, PI training has historically improved women's economic prospects, bolstering self-starting behavior and enhancing business performance.
The Serbian adaptation sees nine Roma women trained as internationally certified PI trainers, mentoring over 100 Roma women nationwide. Training equips participants with confidence and practical skills for job market navigation, income-generating activities, and formal employment transitions. Follow-up support links PI training with job placement programs and mentorship networks, further enhancing stable employment access for Roma women in Serbia.