Atdhe Hykolli again takes the helm of BSPK

At the ninth electoral congress of the Union of Independent Trade Unions of Kosovo, organized with an emphasis on strengthening social dialogue and protecting workers’ rights, Atdhe Hykolli was re-elected chairman of BSPK for another term.

Representatives of local institutions, as well as trade union representatives from the region and Europe, took part in the congress, highlighting the importance of social dialogue, respect for workers’ rights, and the role of trade unions in the country’s economic and democratic development.

Atdhe Hykolli will continue to lead the Union of Independent Trade Unions of Kosovo for another term.

“The general collective agreement awaits us, which is very important, and many other tasks await us on the international stage because we are now part of the European Economic and Social Council, which is very important because Kosovo can gain status with the support of BSPK as well. We love this country and we must work, but first we need to have a very sincere social dialogue in Kosovo and then continue with the other paths ahead of us,” he said.

Representatives of other trade unions from the country and the region were also present at the proceedings of the ninth electoral congress.

“The dialogue that strengthens us is of essential importance. Dialogue between trade unions and employers is of fundamental importance because it makes it possible to reach compromises that benefit the entire economy and society. For this reason, EU states included social dialogue in the EU Treaty 30 years ago,” emphasized Peter Scherrer, representative of the European Trade Union Confederation-Brussels.

“The strength of a nation is not measured only by its army nor by its economy; the strength of a nation is measured by the way we treat our workers and citizens. When work is respected, when workers are protected, the state is strengthened; when the voice of trade unions is heard, democracy is strengthened; and when Albanians unite for social justice, there is no challenge that cannot be overcome,” said Kolë Nikollaj, president of the Confederation of Trade Unions of Albania.

Acting Prime Minister Albin Kurti, meanwhile, promised government policies aimed at creating a more dignified labor market for everyone.

“Our state is going through an important phase of economic and institutional consolidation, and in this process workers remain the main pillar of the country’s development, therefore our policies are aimed at building a fairer and more dignified labor market for all,” he said.

During the congress, delegates addressed the financial report, developments in the field of social dialogue, as well as the issue of protecting workers’ rights.