23-24 October 2023, Madrid, Spain

The biannual meeting of the Network of Directors of Institutes and Schools of Public Administration (DISPA), held under the patronage and auspices of the Ministry of the Treasury and Public Function and the Spanish National Institute for Public Administration (INSP) in the frame of the Spanish Presidency of the Council of the European Union, brought together 27 Directors from leading European Union Public Administration Institutes. They were joined by representatives from the European School of Administration (EuSA), the European Institute of Public Administration (EIPA), European Commission representatives, as well as Heads of Academies from the Western Balkans and high-level representatives from public sector training institutions.

ReSPA Director Handjiska-Trendafilova emphasised, "The strong presence and active involvement of the Western Balkans in key European Union platforms and networks such as DISPA are crucial for the reform and modernisation of our public administrations, progressive European Union integration and attainment of the high standards of the European Administrative Space. This is the first time all ReSPA Members have participated in the DISPA meeting, following the opening of the network during the Bulgarian Presidency of the Council. ReSPA has been privileged to play a facilitating role in this endeavour."

ReSPA's team and Western Balkans public administration representatives engaged in in-depth discussions, gaining valuable insights into innovative learning and development methods applicable in the region and EU MS. These efforts aim to foster progress in public administration within the Western Balkans and, by extension, the European Union. Learning and development are foundational elements for achieving high-quality public administration in the region and the EU.

ReSPA remains committed to building a reservoir of knowledge, expertise, resources, and networks in today's fast-paced and interconnected global landscape. All these components are meticulously designed to enhance the competencies and skills of our civil servants, strengthen public institutions, and ultimately improve the lives of our citizens.