Despite stable economic activity and continuous interest from employers, the labor market of the Republic of Srpska faced a pronounced shortage of workers in certain sectors this year. The most significant deficits are recorded in education, healthcare, construction, and service industries, representing both a challenge and an opportunity for further development, investment in human resources, and modernization of the employment system.
As confirmed by the Public Employment Service of the Republic of Srpska, employers experience the greatest difficulties in finding preschool teachers, mathematics and physics teachers, primary school teachers, as well as doctors and nurses. These professions are of crucial importance for social and economic development and represent the foundation of long-term stability in the Republic of Srpska.
In addition to education and healthcare, a persistently high shortage is also evident in skilled trades, particularly among qualified carpenters, joiners, and metalworkers. In the service sector, the highest demand is recorded for assistant cooks, waiters, and support staff, further confirming the growth of tourism and hospitality across the Republic of Srpska.
The Employment Service emphasizes that filling vacancies in shortage occupations often takes several months and, in more complex cases, longer than six months. This highlights the need for stronger alignment between the education system and labor market needs. Of particular concern is the age structure of skilled trades, as most workers are of older age, while interest among young people in these professions has been declining for years.
Construction – A Pillar of Development Facing Challenges and Opportunities
Similar warnings come from the Chamber of Commerce of the Republic of Srpska, which points out that the construction sector, as one of the key drivers of economic growth, is entering a demanding period. Despite rising wages and increased workloads, there is a growing shortage of qualified workers capable of meeting modern construction standards.
Labor shortages are present at all stages of construction—from machinery operators and crane operators, to masons, carpenters, steel fixers, and façade workers, as well as tilers, painters, and installers of electrical power systems. An additional challenge is the lack of engineering staff in the private sector, as a significant number of professionals are employed in public administration.
The main reasons for this situation include labor migration to European Union countries and a declining number of students enrolled in technical and construction-related faculties. Nevertheless, experts emphasize that through investments in infrastructure, housing construction, and energy projects, the Republic of Srpska continues to offer substantial opportunities for the professional development of domestic workforce.
Labor Import as Part of a Broader Strategy
In order to maintain development momentum, the construction sector in the Republic of Srpska has for several years relied on the controlled import of labor. Workers from Turkey, Bangladesh, and other countries are increasingly present on construction sites, and proposed quotas for the coming year aim to enable legal and systematic employment of foreign workers.
At the same time, institutions of the Republic of Srpska are working on improving employment policies, supporting shortage occupations, developing dual education systems, and introducing additional incentives for young people who choose in-demand professions. The goal is clear—to retain domestic labor, attract new professionals, and ensure stable economic growth.
Despite the challenges, the labor market of the Republic of Srpska demonstrates resilience and the capacity to adapt to modern trends. Shortage occupations are increasingly becoming an opportunity for secure employment, higher earnings, and long-term career prospects, while the Republic of Srpska remains a place where knowledge, work, and expertise are increasingly valued.
Economy
Energetics
Tourism
Agriculture
ICT
Food
