ReSPA Director Handjiska-Trendafilova contributed to the 24th Summer Seminar for Young Public Policy Professionals: Future Scenarios for Central and Eastern Europe in Times of Continuous Uncertainty organised by the Economic Policy Institute from Sofia, Bulgaria.

During the session "Good Governance Challenges: The Role of Training and Capacity Building in Public Institutions," Director Handjiska-Trendafilova emphasised that effective navigation through uncertainties hinges on good governance. She highlighted the necessity of strong, adaptable, and forward-thinking public institutions, leadership that anticipates future challenges, and a well-equipped and capable public administration. She underscored ReSPA's commitment to capacity-building, networking, and peer learning through a regional approach.

In an engaging interaction with participants, Director Handjiska-Trendafilova answered numerous questions about the functioning of public institutions in the Western Balkans, the motivation of civil servants, best practices for making administrations more youth-friendly, and the region's current state. Participants appreciated ReSPA's dedicated and visionary efforts, particularly in establishing networks with peers from EU member states.

The Director congratulated EPI for the flagship summer school initiative organised throughout the years and the wide community of young public policy professionals who have been empowered and networked in collaboration and multilateralism.