The Twinning Project Concludes with Tangible Results and Lasting Impact

After two years of implementation, the EU-funded Twinning project "Strengthening the Health Sector's Capacity for Communicable Disease Surveillance in Serbia" concluded with a final conference held on 13 June 2025 at the Institute of Public Health of Serbia “Dr. Milan Jovanović Batut.”

The project was implemented through the EU Twinning instrument by the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), in partnership with the Institute of Public Health of Serbia and with the support of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Serbia.

The project showcased several key outputs, including:

• Serbia’s epidemiological surveillance regulatory framework better aligned with EU/ECDC standards
• A proposal for the reorganization of the national reference laboratory system for microbiology
• A draft rulebook for quality control in diagnostic microbiology laboratories
• Draft professional and methodological instructions on biosafety, biosecurity and transportation of samples for microbiology clinical laboratories in the Republic of Serbia
• Introduction of Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) methodology at the Batut Institute’s Salmonella National Reference Laboratory
• A proposed set of performance indicators for the electronic laboratory notification system
• A set of five accredited training modules delivered for Serbian epidemiologists and microbiologists, accompanied by a trainer manual

These are measurable, concrete results—clearly defined targets that have been successfully achieved. However, beyond these tangible outcomes, the project also fostered something less quantifiable yet equally valuable: the development of strong, lasting professional relationships. Over time, these evolved into deeper, more personal connections built on mutual respect and collaboration.

The Serbian partners now have a clear roadmap of the milestones ahead. They understand the steps required to elevate the country's communicable disease surveillance system to a level recognized by the European Commission as fully aligned with EU standards and norms—while most importantly, meeting the public health needs of the Serbian population.

During the final conference, national and international representatives acknowledged the importance of timely responses to communicable disease threats in a globalized world. They emphasized the necessity of cross-border collaboration, participation in ECDC reporting systems, and alignment with EU standards to ensure effective public health systems. The project has played a key role in modernizing the national surveillance system, enabling quicker outbreak detection and response, and ensuring better alignment with EU practices.