The 'Towards a Safe and Healthy Working Environment in North Macedonia' project supports the country’s efforts to strengthen occupational safety and health (OSH) systems in line with EU standards and International Labour Standards. While significant progress has been made regarding legislative alignment, key challenges remain, including fragmented reporting systems, limited enforcement capacities, and insufficient workplace prevention practices.

Building on the priorities identified in the European Commission Reports and the national reform agenda, the project addresses gaps in data collection, labour inspection, and recognition of emerging risks such as psychosocial hazards. It also responds to the global recognition of safe and healthy working conditions as a fundamental labour right.

Over 42 months, the project brings together public institutions, employers, trade unions, and civil society to strengthen the national OSH framework, modernise inspection systems, improve data management, and promote a culture of prevention. Through these actions, it contributes to safer workplaces, stronger institutions, and better protection for all workers.

The overall objective is to contribute to the realisation, in law and practice, of the fundamental right to a safe and healthy working environment for all workers in North Macedonia.

The specific objectives are:

• Strengthen the national occupational safety and health (OSH) framework in line with EU standards.
• Improve systems and procedures for effective labour inspection services.
• Establish and enhance OSH information systems for data collection, analysis, and reporting.
• Strengthen national capacities of institutions, employers, and workers to promote and ensure safe and healthy working environments.

• Improved legal and policy framework for OSH, including draft legislation aligned with EU directives, a national OSH policy, and a strengthened strategic framework.
• Enhanced capacity and effectiveness of the State Labour Inspectorate through improved planning, modernised procedures, and targeted training programmes.
• An established and operational OSH information system enabling reliable data collection, analysis, and reporting.
• Strengthened capacities of workers’ and employers’ organisations to promote and implement OSH standards.
• Increased awareness and integration of OSH principles through education, training systems, and public awareness campaigns.