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Human Capital

Number of projects

0

Investment value

0

Grant value

0

Loan value

0

The Economic and Investment Plan (EIP) recognises the importance of education and skills, health and social protection to unleash economic growth. Alongside efforts on poverty reduction, social inclusion and strengthening social safety nets, accompanying infrastructure measures include social housing, education, health and judicial facilities. 

The WBIF human capital projects account for 3% of the total WBIF grants and 10% of the project portfolio in the public sector. Until 2021, activities focused on infrastructure investments in education, judicial and health facilities, social housing, and sectoral reforms. Key priorities in 2021-2027 are digitalisation and energy efficiency in the health and education sectors.

Overall, human capital development benefitted from three EIP flagship investments in 2020-2024, which directed €398 million towards investments in education and health facilities. The WBIF contributed €69.1 million in grants to these investments, of which €62.4 million was EU IPA funding and €6.7 million was Bilateral Donor funding.

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Investment Priorities

Latest News

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Energy-efficient dormitories inaugurated in Albania
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11-11-2024

Energy-efficient dormitories inaugurated in Albania

Investment through the Regional Energy Efficiency Programme substantially improves living conditions for stude...

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Reconstruction begins at the "Steve Naumov" student dormitory
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22-10-2024

Reconstruction begins at the "Steve Naumov" student dormitory

This is part of North Macedonia’s regional energy efficiency programme funded by the EU.

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Updated WBIF factsheets now available
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03-10-2024

Updated WBIF factsheets now available

Autumn brings the updated WBIF factsheets, including the latest figures and project examples.

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Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans

Fairness and inclusiveness are important in ensuring that the benefits of recovery and growth are shared by everyone and that no one is left behind. A well-functioning labour market and a well-trained and productive workforce are crucial for a resilient economy. 

The Commission will strengthen the dialogue with the Western Balkans to foster the implementation of the European Pillar of Social Rights24 (EPSR) in the region. The EU aims to support the development of human capital by increasing IPA funding, in particular as regards the reform priorities identified in the Economic Reform Programme process and joint policy guidance in the areas of education and skills, employment, and social protection and inclusion. Emphasis will also be put on youth, health, culture and sport.

To support employment and offer solutions and perspectives for young people at local level, the Economic and Investment Plan proposes the investment Flagship 10 - Youth Guarantee.

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Improving labour market participation

A priority, especially for young people and women, disadvantaged groups and minorities, in particular Roma.

Reforms of social protection

The inclusion systems, including social care services, will be a priority considering the human development gap with the EU.

Health systems reform

Strengthened health insurance and the resilience of public health systems will be supported, also in the light of lessons learnt from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Wider involvement of the civil society

Encouraging innovative solutions, promoting social entrepreneurship to tackle social challenges.

Economic opportunities in the creative and cultural sector

Contribution to the region’s sustainable tourism potential and implementation of 2018 Framework for Action on Cultural Heritage.

Achieved results

2008-2023

  • Better schools for 96,600 students annually
  • 2,050 social housing units built
  • Healthcare facilities for 1.8 million people

Expected results

2024-2030

  • Better schools for 65,700 students annually
  • Innovative learning environments for 15,000 higher education students per year
  • New building constructed and equipped at University Children’s Hospital in Belgrade, Serbia

Latest Videos

Publications

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WBIF Human Capital
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19-09-2024

WBIF Human Capital

WBIF Human Capital Factsheet (September 2024)

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Economic and Investment Plan: Endorsed Flagship Investments 2020-2024
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22-07-2024

Economic and Investment Plan: Endorsed Flagship Investments 2020-2024

Flagship investments endorsed under the Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans, July 2024.

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From Plan to Action - WBIF Key Achievements 2021
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11-11-2022

From Plan to Action - WBIF Key Achievements 2021

WBIF key achievements in 2021 on advancing the implementation of the Economic and Investment Plan for the West...

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Partner Financial Organisations

Western Balkans Partners