The main topic of the article concerns the right of entrepreneurs in Serbia to receive unemployment benefits. Entrepreneurs are entitled to benefits only in cases of complete cessation of business, bankruptcy, or liquidation of the company. Temporary suspension of activity or income decline do not qualify for benefits. Independent artists, clergy, and freelancers who work on contract or do not have a company in Serbia are not eligible for these benefits. The National Employment Service (NSZ) emphasizes that only those insured for unemployment and meeting legal conditions can claim the benefits. The duration of benefits can range from three to twelve months, and in exceptional cases up to 24 months. Additionally, there are other support programs for self-employment and employment of hard-to-employ individuals.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning sources tend to emphasize the social protection aspect of unemployment benefits for entrepreneurs, highlighting the need for inclusive policies that support self-employed individuals and freelancers who often lack traditional employment protections. They may critique the restrictive conditions that exclude many self-employed workers from receiving benefits and advocate for broader social safety nets.
Center: Center-leaning sources report the facts about the legal framework and eligibility criteria for unemployment benefits for entrepreneurs, focusing on the clarity of the law and the administrative procedures. They present the information neutrally, explaining the conditions under which benefits are granted and the role of the National Employment Service without strong political commentary.
Right: Right-leaning sources emphasize the importance of personal responsibility and the risks inherent in entrepreneurship. They highlight that benefits are only available in cases of complete business closure, bankruptcy, or liquidation, and not for temporary downturns, underscoring the need for entrepreneurs to manage their risks. They may also stress the role of market forces and discourage dependency on state support.