WB6 CIF at the Brezovica Economic Forum: Key Regional Challenges and New Initiatives for Stronger Economic Integration
Representatives of the Western Balkans chambers of commerce gathered today at the Brezovica Economic Forum to discuss the most pressing challenges facing the regional business community. The panel brought together Lulzim Rafuna, President of the WB6 CIF Managing Board; David Piegazki, Secretary General of WB6 CIF; Ines Mucostepa, President of the Union of Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Albania; and Balša Ćulafić, coordinator for cooperation with Western Balkan chambers from the Chamber of Commerce of Montenegro.
Opening the discussion, President Lulzim Rafuna stressed that the shortage of skilled workers has become the most significant obstacle for businesses across the region—surpassing corruption and infrastructure challenges that dominated a decade ago. He emphasized that economic progress begins with education, making the reform of education systems essential for long-term development.
This point was further underlined by representatives of regional institutions, who highlighted the paradox of several Western Balkan economies simultaneously facing high unemployment and the need to import labour—an issue that reflects deeper structural imbalances in the labour market.
WB6 CIF Secretary General David Piegazki presented ongoing activities aimed at strengthening strategic partnerships with key international institutions, including the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and the Government of Italy. Through EU- and Germany-funded programmes, WB6 CIF is implementing concrete measures to enhance the regional business environment. One of the flagship outcomes is the upcoming digital regional investment assistant, a comprehensive platform designed to provide investors with essential information on legislation, incentives, market trends, and investment opportunities across the Western Balkans.
Panelists also noted that Albania and Montenegro remain the most advanced economies in the EU integration process, having opened all negotiation chapters. However, as highlighted by Balša Ćulafić, Montenegro continues to face obstacles related to judicial reform, which remains a key challenge on its EU path.
The discussion also focused on regional workforce mobility and the need for stronger education-to-labour market alignment. Participants underscored the importance of the KfW-funded dual education project, implemented through WB6 CIF and valued at €72 million, as a crucial step in equipping young people with skills demanded by regional companies.
President Rafuna additionally praised the work of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) on drafting the Agreement on Freedom of Movement and Mutual Recognition of Diplomas, which is now undergoing ratification across the region. This agreement is expected to greatly facilitate labour mobility by enabling travel with ID cards and simplifying recognition of professional qualifications—removing long and burdensome nostrification procedures.
