“Katarina Ivanković Knežević is the Director for Social Rights and Inclusion at the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Employment, Social Affairs, and Inclusion. Since her appointment in 2018, she has focused on modernising social protection systems and fostering greater social and labour inclusion across the EU. Ms Ivanković Knežević plays a significant role in implementing the European Pillar of Social Rights, specifically targeting disability rights, social inclusion, and workforce equality. Additionally, she coordinates equality initiatives within DG EMPL, reinforcing inclusive policies to improve the lives of marginalised groups.
Prior to joining the European Commission, Ms Ivanković Knežević served as State Secretary in Croatia’s Ministry of Labor and Pension Systems, where she managed the European Social Fund and oversaw human resource development programmes. Her career spans over two decades with a focus on human rights, gender equality, and social policy innovation, establishing her as a prominent advocate for inclusive and sustainable social systems throughout Europe.”