Western Balkans Emerging as a Labour Destination: WB6 CIF President Highlights Strategic Role of Migration
Budva, 15 May 2025 – The Western Balkans is undergoing a significant transformation in its labour market, evolving from a region primarily known for exporting workers to one increasingly attracting foreign labour. This was the key message delivered by Mr. Lulzim Rafuna, President of the Western Balkans 6 Chamber Investment Forum (WB6 CIF), at the Conference on Labour Migration: Supporting Economic Growth in the Western Balkans Six, held this week in Budva.
Speaking to an audience of policy-makers, business leaders, and international development partners, Rafuna pointed to a striking statistic: the number of foreign work permits issued in the region has more than doubled in just five years, rising from 46,000 to over 100,000.
“The data clearly reflects a transformative shift in the labour dynamics of the Western Balkans,” Rafuna said. “This isn’t just about labour shortages—it shows that our region is becoming a destination for labour, not just a source of it.”
He described this shift as a strategic opportunity for the region, particularly in terms of strengthening economic resilience and attracting new investment. For investors, the ability of a region to mobilize and integrate a diverse workforce is an essential signal.
“Whether in construction, manufacturing, or services, companies considering investment in our region need assurance that labour shortages won’t stall their growth,” he explained. “The inflow of foreign workers helps mitigate these risks and contributes to more stable, productive operations.”
Mr. Rafuna also highlighted the broader implications of managed migration for the region’s competitiveness. He noted that by reducing reliance on emigration and supporting a more balanced flow of labour, the Western Balkans can build a stronger foundation for long-term development. This, he argued, would allow businesses to shift their focus from survival to strategic planning and investment in human capital.
In order to make this transition sustainable, Mr. Rafuna emphasized the need for institutional improvements—such as streamlined work permit procedures, decent working conditions, and fair treatment of all workers. These reforms, he said, benefit not only migrants but also local employees and the overall business environment.
“A well-regulated and managed labour migration system is not just a demographic necessity—it’s an economic development tool,” he stated. “When paired with investments in infrastructure, education, and private sector growth, it can position the Western Balkans as a competitive production and service hub for Europe.”
The WB6 Chamber Investment Forum sees the private sector as a key partner in shaping labour migration policies. Rafuna underlined the WB6 CIF commitment to working closely with governments, international organizations, and development partners to ensure migration frameworks are aligned with the real needs of the regional economy.
“We are committed to ensuring that migration is not seen as a challenge to manage, but as an opportunity to harness—for growth, stability, and shared prosperity,” he concluded.
