26-27 February 2025, Podgorica, Montenegro

The Regional Thematic Group on Digital Transformation convened in Podgorica to discuss the implementation of eIDAS and eIDAS 2.0, assess the digitalization progress of member administrations, and explore opportunities offered through ReSPA's support instruments.

The meeting thoroughly explored the current digitalization status across WBs, utilizing insights from Digital Compass 2030 and international surveys like the UN e-Government Survey, the World Bank GovTech Maturity Index, the Digital Economy and Society Index (DESI), the Balkan Barometer 2024, Global Cybersecurity Index, The Global Innovation Index, etc. These surveys revealed significant progress in implementing e-government services yet highlighted persistent challenges such as policy alignment, digital skills, cybersecurity risks, and gaps in digital infrastructure, which continue to impede the full realization of digital transformation in the region. The discussions underscored the need for collaboration and knowledge exchange to address these barriers and optimize digital governance for more efficient public service delivery. A representative at the meeting from RCC, Vojislav Popovic, a Senior Expert on Digital Connectivity, highlighted the importance of regional cooperation, especially on the pathway to implementing the Common Regional Market 2025-2028 Action Plan and gave an overview of RCC activities in the area of digital transformation.

ReSPA experts Rudi Ponikvar and Miha Poberaj provided in-depth insights into the objectives of the implementation of eIDAS (electronic identification and trust services) and the updated framework, eIDAS 2.0, which are crucial for advancing the region’s digital transformation. eIDAS and eIDAS 2.0 are foundational for secure, interoperable digital identification and trust services, enabling cross-border digital transactions and services. A key advancement in eIDAS 2.0 is the introduction of the European Digital Identity Wallet (eWallet), which enhances the security, accessibility, and trust in digital services. The meeting addressed the technical and legal components of eIDAS, helping members understand how to align their digital identity systems with EU standards and promoting security and efficiency in cross-border services.

Discussions centered on how each administration could integrate these regulations into their legal systems. ReSPA members shared experiences and best practices, focusing on the challenges of legal alignment and identifying solutions to streamline the process for better integration of digital identity systems across the region.

On the technical side, the implementation of secure electronic identification and trust services was explored in-depth. This included examining the technical infrastructure necessary for the creation and validation of digital signatures, electronic seals, timestamps, and electronic delivery services. Practical exercises were organized to provide hands-on experience in generating and using digital signatures and seals, enabling participants to translate theoretical knowledge into real-world applications and strengthen their technical capabilities.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of the EU’s electronic identification schemes, which play a pivotal role in enhancing secure and trusted digital services. These schemes simplify processes, improve service delivery, and bolster citizen trust in public sector digital services. A review of the electronic identification schemes currently in use allowed participants to share insights and lessons learned from their own implementations, helping to identify challenges and opportunities for scaling these schemes to suit the diverse needs of different countries in the region.

A key development discussed was the introduction of the EU Digital Identity Wallet (EUDI Wallet), a core component of eIDAS 2.0, by the expert Katrin Laas-Mikko. The meeting provided an in-depth overview of the EUDI Wallet’s functionalities, regulatory framework, and trust model, helping participants understand how this innovation can benefit both citizens and public administrations by enhancing cross-border digital identification.

The event provided an opportunity for representatives from IDDEEA in Bosnia and Herzegovina and NAIS in Albania to present to the working group members the activities related to the eWallet projects they are currently working on.

Finally, the meeting showcased ReSPA’s support instruments, such as on-demand technical assistance, capacity-building initiatives, mobility schemes, and e-Gov pilot programs. These mechanisms are designed to assist administrations in their digitalization efforts by providing tailored support. Success stories from initiatives developed through ReSPA support were shared, and group discussions proposed priority areas for future collaboration in line with ReSPA Strategic Orientation 2025-2030.

Bajić wrapped up the meeting with the conclusion that the meeting served as a platform for ReSPA members to discuss and strategize their digital transformation efforts, focusing on the implementation of eIDAS and eIDAS 2.0, addressing the current digitalization status, aligning legal frameworks, and tackling the technical aspects of digital identity systems. Through knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and tailored support, ReSPA aims to empower its members to enhance the efficiency, security, and accessibility of their digital services, contributing to a more resilient and interconnected digital future across the region.