BRIEFING PAPER PRIVATE SECTOR DEVELOPMENT MAY 2011 FORUM ON ECONOMIC POLICIES In this edition Introduction 1 The Challenges 2 Rule of Law and Market Competition 3 Workforce Skills 4 Labour Law 5 Minimum Wage 6 Additional Points from the Roundtable Discussion 7 References Published by: Despite the global economic crisis, Kosovo has experienced positive economic growth rates during the last years(CBK, 2010; European Commision, 2010). However, during 2009 and the first half of 2010 it is estimated that this growth is primarily attributed to government consumption and investments(European Commsision, 2010). Considering this and other challanges that the Kosovan economy currently faces(summarized in the previous briefing paper), we consider the development of the private sector to be a priority for the Kosovan society. As the problems that hinder the development of the private sector have been identified in numerous previous studies and reports, this study will focus on some seleced problems and particularly on the latest developments in the country which have a direct impact on the private sector. This briefing paper followed by a roundtable discussion will seek to present opinions and experiences of businesses in Kosovo and the associations that represent them, and to promote debate among business representatives, the civil society and Kosovan institutions. The intention is the development of recommendations in order to improve the business environment for the private sector in Kosovo. Friedrich Ebert Stiftung(FES) and Riinvest Institute are grateful to the interviewed business representatives and business associations who have shared their expertise and experience with our team during the implementation of this project.