Kick-Off of the ISABEL Living Labs in Western Macedonia

May 18, 2026

The ISABEL project successfully launched its Living Lab activities in Western Macedonia through a kick-off meeting organised by the University of Western Macedonia in collaboration with the Regional Development Fund of Western Macedonia. The event brought together representatives from regional authorities, research institutions, labour market stakeholders, and policy actors to discuss the significant labour market transformations currently affecting the region.

The discussions focused on the social and economic implications of the green transition, digitalisation, and technological change, particularly in regions experiencing major structural transformations linked to decarbonisation and shifting economic activities. Participants explored the effects of these developments on employment patterns, job creation and job destruction processes, changing skill needs, and the growing importance of reskilling and workforce adaptability.

Special attention was given to the role of regional participation in shaping effective policy responses and ensuring that labour market transitions remain socially fair and inclusive. During the meeting, the ISABEL consortium also presented innovative project tools currently under development, including the FAROROMO Observatory, which aims to support the monitoring and analysis of labour market impacts associated with the just green transition at regional level.

The active engagement of stakeholders demonstrated the importance of collaboration between research, policy, and local communities in addressing labour market challenges and designing sustainable development pathways. The Living Labs are expected to function as participatory environments where regional actors can contribute directly to the co-creation of policy recommendations, data-driven tools, and future-oriented labour market strategies.