Together for Good Governance – A Decade of Knowledge, Partnership and Change

Today, within the framework of the “PRO – Local Governance for People and Nature” programme, the event Together for Good Governance took place in Belgrade, marking ten years of joint efforts to strengthen the capacities of local governments to apply the principles of good governance in their everyday work.

Through the programme, as well as through the two previous phases of programmes that were implemented over the past ten years with the support of the Government of Switzerland by the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS), local self-governments have improved transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in decision-making through training, knowledge exchange, and cooperation. This has laid the foundation for higher-quality public services and greater public trust.

“Good governance is at the heart of our cooperation, because accountable, transparent and inclusive public institutions are the foundation of sustainable development and citizen trust. Through the PRO Programme, we have seen how collaboration between the national and local levels can translate these principles into practice. Real change happens at the local level – close to citizens, through the daily work of dedicated professionals who serve their communities,” said Rahel Fischer, Head of Governance at the Swiss Cooperation Office in Serbia.

Three generations of participants from more than 80 cities and municipalities across Serbia have completed the training on the application of good governance principles in practice, learning through practical examples and developing their knowledge and skills. This has created a new network of knowledge at the local level, contributing to more accountable, transparent, and efficient local administrations.

More than 60 participants attended the Training of Trainers – an additional learning opportunity enabling the horizontal transfer of knowledge among colleagues, communities, and local administrations. With the support of the National Academy for Public Administration, participants were able to obtain accreditation and become certified trainers.

“One of the most valuable outcomes of this process is that some of the participants became accredited trainers of the National Academy, ensuring that knowledge remains within the system and continues to grow. In the coming period, we will continue to cooperate with the Ministry, donors, and partners in developing new programmes for local governments, with a focus on digital formats and peer learning across sectors,” said Marina Dražić, Director of the National Academy for Public Administration.

Ahead of the event, participants of the third training generation visited the National Academy for Public Administration, where they learned more about the Academy’s work, professional development opportunities, and the accreditation process for permanent lecturers.

The results of the training have been translated into tangible change through the establishment of Good Governance Competence Units, dedicated teams ensuring that the principles of good governance are applied in planning, decision-making, and services. Today, this network brings together professionals from 50 cities and municipalities who jointly develop projects and strategic plans, serving as a lasting resource and an example of good practice in this field.

“This initiative truly reflects the essence of UNOPS’ mandate – building partnerships that strengthen institutions, make communities more resilient, and improve people’s lives. The partnership between the Government of Serbia, the Swiss Cooperation Office and UNOPS demonstrates how effective collaboration can deliver systemic change – by aligning expertise, resources and shared commitment to build institutions that work for people,” said Michela Telatin, Director of the UNOPS Office for South East Europe.

Certificates were awarded to the third generation of training participants, marking the successful completion of a decade-long joint effort that has strengthened local capacities and partnerships in the field of good governance across Serbia.

The event brought together more than 50 participants, reaffirming that collaboration, knowledge, and trust remain the key drivers of sustainable change in local communities.

The Programme "PRO - Local Governance for People and Nature" is jointly implemented by the United Nations agencies in Serbia - UNOPS, UNICEF, UNFPA, and UNEP, in cooperation with the Government of Serbia, and with the financial support of the Government of Switzerland.