The Ministry of European Affairs, in cooperation with the Ministry of Public Administration, the Union of Municipalities of Montenegro, and the project “Municipalities4EU – Empowering Local Communities in Montenegro’s EU Integration Process”, organized a specialized thematic workshop for members of the Thematic Network for Digitalization, held from 30 March to 1 April in Bečići.

The workshop brought together representatives of state institutions and local self-governments with the aim of enhancing cooperation and exchanging experiences in the field of digital transformation, as well as strengthening capacities for the implementation of the legislative framework in this area.

During the three-day programme, participants had the opportunity to gain a more detailed understanding of the key laws governing the digitalization of public administration, including the Law on Electronic Administration, the Law on Electronic Identification and Trust Services, the Law on Electronic Documents, as well as the Law on Information Security. Special emphasis was placed on the practical application of regulations through group work and interactive discussions on the challenges institutions face in the process of digital transformation.

The opening remarks highlighted the importance of a coordinated approach to digitalization, as well as the need for the continuous strengthening of public administration capacities, particularly at the local level. Relevant initiatives and programmes contributing to the improvement of digital services and the modernization of public administration in Montenegro were also presented.

The workshop was also implemented within the activities of the strategic project “SA GOVERNANCE – Strengthening and Simplifying Processes for a Digital and Well-Governed South Adriatic”, financed under the IPA South Adriatic Programme. Through this project, special focus has been placed on improving the efficiency of public administrations through digitalization, simplification of procedures, and strengthening the competencies of public officials.

By organizing activities of this kind, cooperation between institutions and local self-governments is further reinforced, creating a solid basis for the more efficient implementation of reforms and the provision of higher-quality services to citizens.