On 26 March 2026, the Centre of Expertise at the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe convened the Third Forum of Exchange on Open Local Government and Democratic Innovations in Pristina.
The Forum brought together representatives from nine municipalities, the Ministry of Local Government Administration (MLGA) and the Association of Kosovo Municipalities (AKM) to discuss the implementation of the Open Government Action Plan 2026–2028 and its implications for local self-government.
Participants reaffirmed their shared commitment to the principles of transparency, accountability, and citizen participation as key elements of good democratic governance. Discussions highlighted the role of digital tools, including e-Kosova and e-Komuna, in improving service delivery and enhancing interactions between local authorities and citizens. Municipal representatives stressed the need for additional technical support and stronger institutional co-ordination to maximize the impact of these tools in local communities.
Municipalities shared practical experiences, with Pristina highlighting progress in digitalisation and AI-supported processes, while Gjakova/Ɖakovica showcased participatory budgeting initiatives and innovative practices aimed at improving accessibility and environmental sustainability, including access to QR-coded administrative documents and green policies.
The Forum was also an opportunity to identify a number of challenges related to limited financial resources, as well as co-ordination and communication gaps between the different levels of government. Representatives of the Ministry of Local Government Administration reiterated their commitment to strengthening co-operation with municipalities and enhancing co-ordination in the implementation of the national policy on open government.
As Kosovo* prepares to implement its 2026–2028 Open Government Action Plan, the Forum provided an opportunity to reinforce multilevel dialogue.
The Forum of Exchange on Open Local Government and Democratic Innovations was organised by the Centre of Expertise for Multilevel Governance (CEMG) at the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe as part of the project framework of the project on “Strengthening Multilevel Governance and Participatory Democracy” and the Council of Europe co-operation activities in Kosovo*.
* All reference to Kosovo, whether to the territory, institutions or population, in this text shall be understood in full compliance with the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244 and without prejudice to the status of Kosovo.