SoDi – Supporting the Implementation of the European Industrial Deal with Strengthened Social Dialogue in European Metal Sector

26-27.08.2026. –Belgrade, Serbia

The European project SODI brought together trade union representatives, employers’ organizations, and metal sector experts from various EU countries to address the challenges of the twin green and digital transitions. During the event, participants debated the impact of the European Green Deal on the industry, focusing on key issues such as high energy costs, the shift toward green steel production, and the urgent need to reskill the workforce to adapt to automation.

The core of the sessions focused on drafting policy recommendations and an action plan dedicated to safeguarding quality employment and industrial competitiveness. Key priorities agreed upon included strengthening social dialogue, securing financial support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to modernize, and ensuring the transparent allocation of decarbonization funds to guarantee a just transition across all European regions.

Moving forward, project partners will finalize these policy and action documents for translation and national distribution. The initiative will conclude with an international online conference to present the final results and strategic frameworks designed to guide the European metal industry toward a sustainable future.

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Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only, and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or European Commission. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

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