On 18 October 2025, the Third Freelance Conference was held at CoWork 21 in Skopje, North Macedonia. The event brought together freelancers, young professionals, policymakers, experts and private-sector representatives from CEI countries and the wider region, with the objective to enhance skills development and regional dialogue on the freelance and digital economy, with a focus on taxation, social protection, digital upskilling and sustainable forms of work.
The Conference, organised by the Foundation for Sustainable Development – Impact Foundation, marked its first edition with a regional scope, enabling the exchange of experiences and best practices among participants. The programme featured panel discussions, workshops and mentoring sessions addressing legal frameworks, social security, digital tools, artificial intelligence for productivity and access to international markets.
Discussions underlined freelancing as an increasingly relevant pathway for economic inclusion and innovation, while stressing the need for clearer regulatory environments and improved access to social protection. A particular focus was placed on the participation of women in the freelance economy, with discussions centring on the adoption of flexible work models and the promotion of work-life balance.
“Prioritising the empowerment of youth is crucial to secure a sustainable and prosperous future. Challenges such as inadequate education systems and difficulties in the transition from education to the labour market demand targeted solutions.
The CEI is committed to supporting youth through capacity-building initiatives, skills development and participation in decision-making, fostering opportunities for sustainable employment and economic independence.”
By encouraging dialogue between institutions, the private sector and the freelance community, the Conference contributed to strengthening cooperation, enhancing skills and supporting inclusive growth in the evolving digital labour market across the CEI region.
For more info: radovanovic@cei.int
