Newsletter #3

January-April 2025

Highlights

Learning, Networking and Capacity Building
Across Thematic Areas

Our team continued to build the capacities of public servants involved in the EU accession process, enhancing their skills and understanding of EU policies and the implementation of the acquis. Through a series of targeted activities, we addressed key topics such as the phasing-in approach, the concept of accelerated integration, the Growth Plan, the current enlargement momentum, and more:

Launched the Western Balkans Leadership Academy

In March, we launched the first module of the Leadership Academy for Western Balkans Civil Servants, a high-level Executive Leadership Programme designed in collaboration with the Agence Universitaire de la Francophonie (AUF) and supported by the Bulgarian Institute for Public Administration (IPA). Targeting young public administration executives with managerial experience, the programme aims to strengthen leadership potential across the region. The first of five modules combined theoretical frameworks with practical training, focusing on human and social capital development.

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Montenegrin Civil Servants Gain First-Hand Insights into EPSO Through Ready4EU Programme

In March, we welcomed participants of the Ready4EU Programme, providing them with a unique opportunity to engage directly with Minna Vuorio, Director of EPSO, who offered valuable insights into EPSO’s mission, organizational structure, and competitive selection process. Complementing her input, expert Tack Lieven guided participants through the EU’s recruitment procedures, shedding light on the new competency framework and selection tests.

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Online session on EU Enlargement momentum, phasing-in, and geopolitics

In February, over 50 Western Balkan civil servants participated in a session on EU enlargement, featuring a keynote by Minister Tanja Miščević. She discussed the phasing-in process, current EU accession negotiations, and the impact of shifting geopolitics, especially the war in Ukraine. Key priorities included free movement, energy decarbonization, and digital integration. The Minister stressed the need for coordinated action to maintain enlargement momentum amid geopolitical challenges.

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2 Executive Trainings: on the EU Single Market and European Affairs and Integration

In April, within the 2^nd Cycle of the Capacity Building and Mobility programme with Italian partners, public officials from the Western Balkans joined an executive training on the EU Single Market, focusing on legislative alignment, quality infrastructure, and strategic challenges. The session highlighted key principles of the Single Market, mutual recognition, and harmonization, with forward-looking insights from the Draghi Report on innovation and industrial competitiveness.

In parallel with the executive training on the EU Single Market, the training on EU Affairs and Integration brought together public officials and EU integration professionals from the Western Balkans to explore the geopolitical context of EU enlargement and build negotiation capacities. Participants examined EU strategic priorities, the role of digital transformation, and national strategies, concluding with a hands-on EU negotiation simulation exercise.

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SEECP Junior Diplomats’ Forum Strengthens Regional Cooperation and Diplomatic Skills

Held in March, the SEECP Junior Diplomats’ Forum offered an immersive experience focused on diplomacy, negotiation, regional cooperation, and diplomatic skill-building in Southeast Europe. The event was co-organised by the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC), the Chairmanship-in-Office of the South-East European Cooperation Process (SEECP), and ReSPA, reinforcing the region’s commitment to fostering the next generation of diplomats.

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Regional Training Unites Western Balkans and Türkiye in the Fight Against Antigypsyism

Bringing together 150 civil servants, academics, and human rights professionals from across the Western Balkans and Türkiye, a virtual Training, jointly organized by the European Roma Institute for Arts and Culture (ERIAC Serbia), ReSPA, and the Council of Europe, aimed to strengthen awareness, foster dialogue, and build capacity to address and combat antigypsyism across the region.

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Empowering EU Accession Efforts: ReSPA’s Role in Strengthening Translation Capacity Showcased at DG TRAD Conference

In January, ReSPA Programme Coordinator Genti Xhaxhiu took part in a panel on acquis translation at the DG TRAD Conference, highlighting ReSPA’s contributions to capacity building, the application of AI-driven solutions, and support for Translation Coordination Units (TCUs). The event addressed historical and practical challenges in translation, the role of multilingualism in the EU enlargement process, and the importance of terminology standardization. Since 2023, ReSPA has been at the forefront of translation reform efforts, co-organizing specialized training and an annual conference in partnership with the Directorate-General for Translation (DGT).

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In the area of Policy-Making and Better Regulation, we hosted a meeting of the Regional Thematic Group on Policy Development and Coordination, complemented by hands-on training in gender-informed policymaking:

The February Meeting of the Regional Thematic Group on Policy Development and Coordination served as a key platform for exchanging best practices and addressing critical challenges in policy implementation across the region. Discussions highlighted persistent issues such as low implementation rates of strategic plans, inconsistent monitoring mechanisms, and policy revisions driven more by legal obligations than national priorities. A major concern was the excessive number of strategies institutions adopt, often leading to inefficiencies and fragmented long-term planning. 

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Training on Gender-Informed Policymaking

With the support of UNDP Montenegro and held back-to-back with the Regional Thematic Working Group meeting, the training equipped public administrators from across the region with practical tools for designing more inclusive and equitable policies. Emphasising the integration of gender perspectives in policymaking, the session featured interactive exercises that enabled participants to explore effective strategies for embedding gender considerations into policy design.

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Throughout the past quarter, our team continued to strengthen the capacities of public servants dealing with HR issues by boosting the exchange of experience among ReSPA Members, ReSPA Members and the EU. We also intensified our support for advancing HRM reforms across the region:

Training on Effective Learning & Development

Led by Belgian BOSA experts, this training focused on designing impactful, tailored public administration training programmes. Participants examined curriculum design, learning outcomes using SMART objectives, and innovative tools like flipped learning and digital platforms. The second day addressed storytelling and consulting skills, illustrating how engaging narratives can improve learning. A dedicated session introduced AI-powered tools for personalized learning experiences, while the training concluded with a focus on evaluation techniques and continuous improvement of training initiatives.

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Workshop on Public Service Salary Systems

Held in March, the workshop offered a comparative overview of civil service remuneration systems, including legislative frameworks, salary structures, and challenges across the Western Balkans. Presentations from Croatia and Slovenia illustrated recent pay reforms, sparking debate on the complexity of salary system reforms. Discussions emphasized principles such as fairness, transparency, and fiscal responsibility. SIGMA’s updated 2023 Principles of Public Administration were presented, with a focus on Principle 11, helping participants explore best practices and strategies for building fair and sustainable compensation models.

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Training on Human Resource Management & Performance Appraisal

Within the 2nd Cycle of the Capacity Building and Mobility programme with Italian Institutions, we brought together Western Balkan HR professionals and Italian counterparts to explore the modernization of HRM and performance appraisal systems. Organized with Italy’s Department for Public Administration and SNA, sessions covered the Italian training directive, HRM toolkits, competency frameworks, and youth recruitment policies. Participants examined Italy’s practices in performance evaluation and discussed the use of AI in public administration training.

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Workshop on Enhancing Human Resource Management in the Western Balkans

Held alongside the HRMPD Working Group Meeting, the workshop promoted knowledge exchange and highlighted good practices in HR monitoring and professional development. The first day focused on HR monitoring as a key aspect of strategic HRM, with participants exploring methodologies and case studies from the Western Balkans and EU Member States. Discussions enhanced understanding of effective HRM, identified challenges, and encouraged innovative regional solutions. The second day featured presentations from participating administrations, key findings from SIGMA reports, and ReSPA’s 2025 activity plans, including ideas for a new EU-funded project proposal.

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This quarter, we advanced digital transformation efforts through several key initiatives aimed at enhancing public service delivery. Recognizing the importance of implementing the eIDAS Regulation in the region, we hosted a dedicated thematic meeting focused on trust services and electronic identification. Further momentum was gained through the Interoperability Academy in Serbia and a joint workshop with EKDDA on eGovernment and digital transformation — both of which significantly strengthened regional capacities and collaboration in the digitalisation domain:

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Workshop with EKDDA Explored Trends in Digital Governance and Effective e-Government Strategies

In cooperation with the National Centre for Public Administration and Local Government (EKDDA), we hosted a dynamic workshop that brought together 20 public sector professionals, policymakers, and technology experts. The event provided a valuable platform for exchanging knowledge, sharing best practices, and engaging in forward-looking discussions on the future of digital governance and the role of AI in public administration.

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Regional Thematic Group Meeting on Digital Transformation & Training on eIDAS 2.0

In February, senior officials responsible for digitalization, together with members of the Working Group, convened to discuss the state of play in digitalizing public services across the region, with a particular focus on the implementation of eIDAS and the upcoming eIDAS 2.0 Regulation. The meeting served as a platform to assess regional progress in digital transformation, explore ReSPA’s available support mechanisms, and identify new opportunities to enhance the efficiency, security, and accessibility of digital services.

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Interoperability Academy in Serbia Toward Strengthening Connected Public Services

In March, senior public officials and digital experts from the Ministry of Public Administration and Local Self-Government, the Ministry of Information and Telecommunications, the Public Policy Secretariat, the Office for IT and eGovernment, and UNDP Serbia came together to address critical challenges related to data exchange and interoperability. Discussions focused on legal frameworks, governance mechanisms, and interoperability maturity models, with a strong emphasis on the EU Interoperability Framework (EIF) and its relevance for Serbia. 

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The WB Public Administration Award Winners' Community of Practice: Driving Innovation and Collaboration

In March, ReSPA and SIGMA brought together leading public administration professionals from the Western Balkans to exchange best practices, foster regional collaboration, and explore ways to scale award-winning initiatives. This gathering provided an important opportunity to catalyze institutional innovation, knowledge sharing, and cross-border cooperation, reinforcing the region’s commitment to excellence in public service delivery.

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ReSPA Joins AI4Gov-X as an Associated Partner

The AI4Gov-X project—a European Union-funded initiative to transform public administration through Artificial Intelligence and digital technologies—was officially launched in February. As an associated partner, ReSPA joins 40 institutions from 20 EU countries in developing innovation platforms and knowledge-sharing networks. We are looking forward to equipping public administrators with AI-driven tools and skills to enhance governance, efficiency, and transparency in public services.

Our colleague Bojana Bajić participated in the Roundtable on the Formation of the Open Data Hub in Montenegro, organised by the Montenegro Academy of Science and Art. Bajić was a panellist and contributed to discussions and conclusions aimed at establishing a national Open Data Hub to enhance data accessibility and transparency.

Regional Quality Management Centre: Connecting the Western Balkans with EU CAF Users and Expanding the CAF Effective User Network in the Region

Our RQMC team supported the participation of civil servants from the Western Balkans at the CAF National Correspondents Meeting and CAF User Event and issued CAF Effective User Labels to the Ministry of Civil Service of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the State Commission for Prevention of Corruption of North Macedonia.

Ministry for European Affairs Started with CAF Implementation

ReSPA launched the CAF implementation in the Ministry for European Affairs of North Macedonia, through the implementation of the EU-developed quality management tool for public administration, members of the Self-Assessment Group of the Ministry began their journey toward institutional excellence.

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CAF National Correspondents Meeting: ReSPA is a Vital Partner in Advancing Quality Management Across the Western Balkans

Under the Polish Presidency of the Council of the EU, the Meeting of the CAF National Correspondents brought together key stakeholders and quality management experts from Europe, with a strong representation from the Western Balkans. They highlighted ReSPA’s dedication to capacity building, promotion, and advocacy for the CAF, especially in sectors like education and digital administration.

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ReSPA at the 10th CAF Users’ Event: Driving Excellence in the Western Balkans

The 10th European CAF Users’ Event, held under the Polish Presidency of the Council of the EU, gathered over 130 participants, including a strong delegation of 22 representatives from the Western Balkans, 12 of whom were brought by ReSPA. EIPA and the EUPAN partnered with the Chancellery of the Prime Minister for two days to spotlight shared experiences and drive public sector transformation through the Common Assessment Framework (CAF).

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Number of CAF-Certified Public Institutions in the Western Balkans Continues to Grow!

Our RQMC has completed four Procedures of External Feedback (PEF), awarding the prestigious CAF Effective User Label to: the Mine Action Centre of Serbia, City of Bihać, Bosnia and Herzegovina, State Commission for Prevention of Corruption, North Macedonia and Ministry of Public Administration, Montenegro, further strengthening the region’s commitment to excellence in public administration and service delivery.

Mechanisms of Direct Support

On-demand instruments provide a flexible and responsive approach to addressing the evolving needs of our Members. Leveraging positive experiences, increasing demand, and an enhanced methodology, these tailored interventions continue to boost innovation, efficiency, and effectiveness in public administration.

Currently, 14 projects are at various stages of implementation, spanning Public Administration Reform (PAR), policy development, HR management and development (HRMD), digital transformation, and governance innovation. Through these targeted initiatives, we continue to empower public administrations, ensuring they are better equipped, more transparent, and highly efficient in serving their citizens:

Ongoing Projects:

• Developing a Computer Programme to assist Associations, Foundations, and Foreign Non-Governmental Organizations   with registration at the Ministry of Justice of Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Strengthening horizontal capacities in the EU integration process in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Improving administrative capacities in Quality Management in Public Administration of Montenegro
• Design and delivery of interrelated training in the framework of Digital Academy of Montenegro designated to the following topic "Use, Processing and Protection of Data”
• Developing methodologies for governance, internal controls, and internal audits in the Montenegrin public sector
• Supporting the development of Montenegro’s National Action Plan for the Open Government Partnership
• Supporting the preparation of the Law on Archival Material and related bylaws in North Macedonia
• Developing the National Electronic Archival and Records Management System in North Macedonia

Projects In the Final Review Stage:

• Upgrading the IT tool for monitoring and reporting on the implementation of the PAR Strategy in North Macedonia
• Support in Drafting the Law on Health Data Collections
• Enhancing the Legal Framework for Strategic Planning
• Development of Methodology on intern induction and integration into public administration
• Support the evaluation and analysis of the Law on the introduction of the quality management system and the common assessment framework of operation and service delivery in the civil service in North Macedonia

Recently Completed Projects:

• Design and delivery of interrelated training in the framework of Digital Academy of Montenegro, designated to the following topic: "Management of Open data"
• Providing expertise on eIDAS and eIDAS 2.0 Regulation in Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Enhancing Government Transparency in Serbia

eGov Pilots

We continued supporting public administrations in enhancing their digital services through targeted technical assistance for piloting the specific e-service. Currently, we are conducting 3 projects in various stages of implementation:

• Support the development of individual software modules – Portal Open Data (Bosnia and Herzegovina);
• Further digitalization of training management services of the National Academy for Public Administration in Serbia
• Support the Secretariat for Legislation of North Macedonia: Development and implementation of software for electronic database for laws and by-laws subject to alignment with the European Union law (under final stage of approval)

Horizontal Facility

Horizontal Facility supports ad-hoc participation of public servants from the region in different regional and international conferences, training or other similar learning events organised by Institutes of Public Administration of the EU Member States, renowned schools or higher education institutions in EU working in the area of public policy, regional partners and other international actors:

Civil Servants from the Western Balkans Attend the EUI's Executive Course

We enabled the participation of 5 public servants from the region in the executive education course “High-Quality Regulation: Tools and Practice.” This four-day course gave participants theoretical knowledge and practical skills to design and implement high-quality regulations.

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Mobility Schemes

Launched the 2nd Cycle of the Capacity Building and Mobility Programme with Italian Partners

The continuation of the flagship programme, supported by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and implemented by ReSPA in partnership with Italy’s National School of Administration (SNA) and the Italian Department of Public Administration, builds on the notable achievements of its previous edition. It aims to foster stronger administrative ties, knowledge exchange, and best practice sharing between Italy and the Western Balkans within a shared European administrative space.

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Montenegrin Ministry of Finance Team Exchanged with Estonia’s RIA Unit

This quarter, we connected the team from the Montenegrin Ministry of Finance with Estonia’s RIA Unit - Estonia’s Ministry of Justice and Digital Affairs, Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications, and Ministry of Regional Affairs and Agriculture, to explore opportunities to strengthen Montenegro’s regulatory framework.
 

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Partnership

ReSPA and French Embassies Open Doors to Prestigious INSP Training

In partnership with French embassies in the Western Balkans and the INSP, we published an open call for all public servants across the region looking to boost their leadership, negotiation, and crisis management skills at an international level by attending the INSP elite short training programmes in 2025.   

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Signed MoU with KSAP Sets the Stage for an Improved Capacity Building

At the margins of the GB Meeting, Director Handjiska-Trendafilova and Małgorzata Bywanis-Jodlińska signed a Memorandum of Understanding between ReSPA and the Director of the National School of Public Administration of Poland (KSAP). This strategic partnership will foster knowledge-sharing and skill development between Western Balkan and EU public administrations. ReSPA and KSAP aim to enhance the resilience of public institutions in the Western Balkans and actively support the EU accession process through innovation and capacity-building initiatives.

Signed MoU with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Croatia (Service for Knowledge Transfer)

Long-standing cooperation between ReSPA and the Service for Knowledge Transfer of the Republic of Croatia has been formalized through the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding in April, providing the framework for mutual cooperation through the exchange of information and expertise.

Director Handjiska-Trendafilova at PM’s Sherpas’ Meeting Presented ReSPA’s Role in Advancing Regional Cooperation toward CRM and the EU Single Market

In February, in Brussels, among representatives from Western Balkans governments, the European Commission, German and UK governments, and the partnering regional organizations (CEFTA, Transport Community, Energy Community Secretariat), Director Handjiska–Trendafilova highlighted ReSPA’s pivotal role in strengthening administrative capacities crucial for the Common Regional Market and EU Single Market, emphasizing the need for a reformed civil service.

Director Handjiska-Trendafilova at Empower.Integrate.Grow Conference Underlined ReSPA’s Role in Advancing Regional Collaboration and EU Integration

In January, at the High-Level Conference on Regional Economic Integration, organized by German Cooperation and supported by the Ministry of European Affairs of Montenegro, Director Handjiska-Trendafilova presented ReSPA’s impact on the regional and EU integration agenda to policymakers, business leaders, EU officials, and regional experts.

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ReSPA Enriched the "Synergy Among Local Governments in Regional Cooperation" Conference

In March, in collaboration with the Western Balkans Fund, the Embassy of Japan in Albania, and NALAS, we brought together ministers, diplomats, mayors, public officials, and experts to discuss inter-municipal collaboration, EU integration, public-private partnerships, and civil society engagement in governance.

Director Handjiska-Trendafilova contributed to the panel "Regional Cooperation and Sustainable Local Development", joining mayors, EU and NALAS representatives, and JICA officials to explore governance reforms and EU funding opportunities. Genti Xhaxhiu, Programme Coordinator, moderated the high-level panel "Local Government Reform in EU Integration," emphasizing government-municipality cooperation for regional development.

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ReSPA at the 13th CORLEAP Annual Meeting

In January, regional and local leaders gathered in Poland to discuss the future of the Eastern Partnership and CORLEAP's role in the new EU political cycle. The event focused on strengthening the local and regional dimensions of the EaP, including the development of the future EaP Academy for Public Administration. Director Handjiska-Trendafilova underscored ReSPA's pivotal role as a hub for administrative capacity-building, regional networking, and mobility exchanges. She also emphasized our commitment to fostering knowledge exchange and collaboration between the Western Balkans and EaP countries, contributing to enhancing administrative capacities in the Eastern Partnership.

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Upcoming events

ReSPA Team

ReSPA Team Earns the  “CAF Effective User” Certificate for the Second Time!

This achievement reflects much more than just compliance with a methodology. It results from a deep commitment to self-improvement, a clear strategic vision, and the desire to foster a quality culture within our institution. Throughout the process, we worked collaboratively to identify key areas for improvement and acted decisively to address them, guided by the belief that excellence is not a destination but a continuous process of learning and growth.

We welcome Amar Hrvat as our New Operations and Finance Manager

Before joining our team, Amar spent eight years as Finance Manager at GIZ, where he was responsible for budgeting, financial planning, and reporting across a range of international development initiatives, including EU-funded projects implemented in cooperation with public administrations throughout the region. In this role, he worked closely with project teams, donors, and senior leadership to ensure financial transparency, compliance, and operational efficiency.

ReSPA Team Celebrated Earth Day by working in the  Community Garden and contributing to growing nutritious food, which will be shared with those in need. Earth Day serves as a powerful reminder of how crucial it is to not only protect nature but also to produce healthy food. Whether supporting local initiatives or advocating for global change, it's our collective responsibility to take action and safeguard nature for future generations. Every step counts.

We encourage public institutions to join forces with communities to create a sustainable, thriving world for all!

ReSPA team exchanged with Liaison Officers at a coordination meeting toward enhancing collaboration and alignment across public administration reform initiatives in the Western Balkans.

The meeting was an opportunity to exchange experiences, share insights, and address challenges in implementing ReSPA’s ongoing and future activities. The meeting emphasised the importance of the LOs in facilitating communication and coordination between ReSPA and their respective administrations.

ReSPA Advocates for Stronger, More Inclusive Societies

ReSPA continues to affirm public administrations as leaders by example, this time reaffirming its commitment to inclusion and empowerment. At the Donor Evening for Children Without Parental Care in Podgorica, organized by the Association of Municipalities of Montenegro and the Chamber of Economy of Montenegro, we joined efforts to support young people transitioning from institutional or foster care toward independent and dignified lives.

Strengthening Teamwork & Driving Innovation

At ReSPA, we continuously cultivate trust, collaboration, and innovation within our team. Through a series of interactive activities—including an Innovation Lab Hackathon, the ReSPA Quiz Game, and engaging team challenges—we enhanced our problem-solving skills, creative thinking, and teamwork. Strengthening our bonds reinforces our ability to work more effectively and drive impactful change in the Western Balkans.

Blog

Delve into our latest Blog post written by Marija Vlajković, a Teaching Assistant and Lecturer at the Faculty of Law, University of Belgrade:  From EU values to EU membership: Why the Rule of Law matters (now more than ever) for the Western Balkans?

The Rule of Law stands as a cornerstone of democratic governance and a fundamental value within the European Union, as enshrined in Article 2 of the Treaty on European Union and the Copenhagen criteria. For the Western Balkans, aspiring EU members, it holds particular significance amidst evolving geopolitical dynamics and the EU's revised enlargement approach.

Knowledge Management Platform

Within our Knowledge Management Platform, we have curated 100+ various learning materials - Presentations, knowledge-bites videos and informative briefs to enhance your capacity-building efforts.

With just one click, you can explore a variety of resources, including 'Salary System in Slovenia' by Peter Pogačar, 'Public Sector Wage System Reform in Croatia' presented by Fadila Bahović, insights on 'Data Exchange, Interoperability & Innovation' from Gianluca Misuraca, and a detailed presentation on HR monitoring and data analysis from Marie Ollivier and Stéphanie Juban showcasing the French experience. Discover cutting-edge digital tools like Estonia's 'Tree of Truth' used in policy-making, presented by Gerli Õunapuu, and more.