Strengthening multilevel governance and participatory democracy

The project Strengthening multilevel governance and participatory democracy aims to strengthen the co‑operation between central and local authorities in Kosovo* in local self-government reform and in the advancement of open government as well as participatory and deliberative democracy.

The increased sought-after synergies between central and local authorities and the Association of Kosovo Municipalities will lead to stronger multilevel governance and central–local consultation on legislative initiatives and reforms.

The project is implemented by the Centre of Expertise for Multilevel Governance at the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe.

Budget: €370,000 – The project is part of the Overview of Co-operation Activities in Kosovo*.

Duration of the project: January – September 2026

Who benefits from the project?

The project is implemented in close co-operation with the Ministry of Local Government Administration and the Association of Kosovo Municipalities.

In addition, 11 municipalities were selected based on their experience and interest on the topics covered by the project, and their configuration. These are (in alphabetical order): Ferizaj/Uroševac, Gjakovë/Ðakovica, Gračanica/Graçanicë, Hani i Elezit/Elez Han, Kamenicë/Kamenica, Klinë/Klina, Lipjan/Lipljan, Mitrovicё/Mitrovica South, Pejë/Peć, Prishtinë/Priština, and Prizren.

How does the project work?

The project has a two-fold approach:

Supporting reforms: the project will update the 2021 Study on Local Self-Government in Kosovo* to outline the legislative and policy changes in the past years and assist central and local authorities in addressing recurrent and new issues in line with the European Charter of Local Self-Government and other European standards. An action plan and a peer-review process will support the implementation of recommendations.

Capacity building and peer learning: the project will facilitate peer exchanges and equip local authorities with the necessary tools and knowledge to lead change on open government and participatory and deliberative democracy.

What do we expect to achieve?

Central and local authorities and their association engage in inclusive discussions to advance legislative initiatives and local self-government reforms.
Municipalities enhance the application of open government principles as well as participatory and deliberative democracy in their policies and practices, in line with Council of Europe standards.

Important information: The Centre of Expertise for Multilevel Governance (Centre of Expertise or CEMG) at the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities helps strengthen democracy and good governance at all levels in Europe. It develops and implements projects and targeted activities aimed at promoting Council of Europe standards and ensuring implementation of recommendations adopted by the Congress.