KCSS Empowers Municipalities to Advance EU Rule of Law Reforms

On November 11, 2025, the Kosovar Centre for Security Studies (KCSS), with support from the Government of Ireland through the EU Enlargement and European Fundamental Values (EEFV) Fund, organized a workshop aimed at strengthening the capacities of Kosovo’s municipalities to meet rule-of-law requirements within the EU integration process. The event brought together representatives from municipal legal offices, EU integration units from several municipalities, and members of civil society organizations, underscoring the growing need for coordinated local efforts in advancing European standards.

The workshop opened with remarks by KCSS Executive Director Mentor Vrajolli, who emphasized the essential role municipalities play in translating EU governance principles into everyday practice. As Kosovo makes progress toward closer alignment with the European Union, he noted, local administrations must be equipped to understand and implement the obligations arising from the Stabilisation and Association Agreement (SAA) and the emerging EU Growth Plan for the Western Balkans.

Rozafa Ukimeraj, author of the accompanying KCSS report titled “Strengthening the Role of Municipalities in the Promotion of EU Rule of Law Values in Kosovo” presented research findings that shed light on the challenges municipalities face in strengthening legality, transparency, and inclusiveness. Her presentation connected analytical insights with practical needs on the ground, highlighting the importance of accountable decision-making, open access to information, and meaningful multi-ethnic inclusion within local institutions.

The training component of the workshop was led by Artan Çollaku, who provided a comprehensive overview of the SAA, EU conditionality, and Kosovo’s commitments under the new Reform and Growth Facility. He outlined the implications for municipalities, including legal approximation, public administration reform, digitalization obligations, and strengthened financial management standards. The presentation also explored how the Reform Agenda 2024–2027 links policy reforms with access to EU financial assistance, creating both responsibilities and opportunities for local governments.

An interactive session allowed participants to discuss concrete steps municipalities can take to advance rule-of-law standards in their daily work. Municipal officials and civil society representatives shared experiences, identified capacity gaps, and reflected on ways to enhance transparency, service delivery, and citizen engagement. The discussions reinforced the importance of sustained cooperation between local institutions and community actors in supporting Kosovo’s integration path.

The workshop concluded successfully by providing space for further exchanges and collaboration. KCSS will continue to build on these insights through ongoing training, research, and policy support under the project “Strengthening the Role of Municipalities in Promotion of EU Rule of Law Values in Kosovo,” the main findings of which will be launched at the final conference on November 18, 2025 in Prishtina.